We're excited share the 5 finalists who will join Rhode Island Inno for a "shark-tank" style pitch competition featuring startups from the Nonprofit Innovation Lab, brought to you by Social Enterprise Greenhouse and United Way of Rhode Island.
Before we reveal the finalists, here's more about the Nonprofit Innovation Lab. Their goal is to spark development and implementation of innovative, self-sustaining new solutions that will enable organizations to expand and accelerate their ability to create positive social impact. Launched at the beginning of the year, the program offered 10 Rhode Island nonprofits the opportunity to transform innovative ideas into reality, enabling them to create greater social impact in response to addressing community needs. The effort consisted of three components and leaned on entrepreneurial thinking and a social enterprise curriculum, paired with the critical resources - coaching, access to networks and capital - needed to bring ideas to life.
These nonprofits have been fine-tuning their innovation ideas for the past several months and are now preparing for the culminating pitch event, where a total of $100,000 in prizes will be awarded to support the three most compelling innovation projects.
The finalists were determined during a digital pitch selection round, in which Rhode Islanders were invited to vote for their favorite innovation idea.
Meet the Finalists:
The College Crusade of Rhode Island
The College Crusade is initiating new programs and supports tailored to meet the needs of students impacted by COVID-19 for whom a “gap” in their college studies could easily become a “trap” as they seek to achieve social and economic mobility.
Fuerza Laboral will work to create a pathway for low-income workers to create their own successful and socially responsible businesses in industries that traditionally have been exploitative to minorities and other vulnerable groups.
Genesis Center plans to develop a food enterprise that will redesign the culinary arts training program model from a traditional classroom setting to paid “on the job” training
House of Hope CDC is working to create a tiny house village as an innovative way to combat the affordable housing crisis here in Rhode Island, address social determinants of health, and that is ultimately a place of healing as a fresh start for those who are homeless.
Man Up, Inc.’s plan is to start an indoor Hydroponic Vegetable business that–will not only provide financial sustainability to the organization but–will also provide additional training and high-wage employment opportunities for the population they serve.
It’s impressive to see the sheer passion and innovation our nonprofit community brings to their work to make Rhode Island stronger,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO of United Way. “We’re beyond excited for the November 12 presentations, and eager to see the impact the top projects can have in bettering the lives of our neighbors.”
“It has been an honor to work with these amazing nonprofit leaders. Their entrepreneurial thinking, coupled with passion and hard work, is reassuring that even during these challenging times, many of the most pressing social challenges in our communities are front of mind and being addressed through innovative and effective approaches,” added Kelly Ramirez, CEO of SEG. “Although only five fellows have advanced to the final round, we are committed to continuing to work with all ten to help them get the support and resources needed to execute on their ideas.”
The final pitch event on November 12 will be held virtually from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., and is open to the community with registration online. The pitch judges include:
- Michael Disandro, Senior Vice President & Team Leader, Wells Fargo
- Ed Fitzpatrick, News Reporter, Boston Globe
- Leland R. Merrill, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Lending Officer, Bank Newport
- Arnell Millhouse, Entrepreneur in Residence, Brown University
- Jill Pfitzenmayer, Vice President of Capacity Building, Rhode Island Foundation
- Macky McCleary, Director, Energy, Sustainability and Infrastructure, Guidehouse
Everyone who attends will have a chance to vote for the Public Choice Award, with the winning organization receiving a $5,000 prize. RSVP and we will see you on November 12.
