The Finnovation Lab, an accelerator that focuses on social impact projects started by Finnegans Brew Co., announced its third cohort this week.
The nine fellows will each receive a $50,000 living stipend, a $3,000 health care stipend and will have access to the Finnovation Lab's resources, including its physical space in the Finnegans brewery in Minneapolis and a group of mentors. The nine-month program runs from September to mid-June.
"Our final group represents the strength of the social-impact scene here in Minnesota, and we're excited to see what they bring to the community," Finnovation Lab CEO Connie Rutledge said in a statement.
Some of the fellows already have businesses that they hope to expand through the program, while others plan to use the opportunity to build out a new business.
The nine fellows are:
- Michelle Abdon, who is developing a high school curriculum that teaches mental health skills through studio arts
- Marlee Dorsey, founder of Reviving Roots Therapy & Wellness, a therapy service aimed at closing health disparities in the Black community
- Valerie Fleurantin, founder of VF Health Fitness Solutions, a workout and fitness class that hopes to open a health and wellness center
- Naomi Ko, who is creating a company that connects and funds filmmakers who are Women of Color
- Leah Korger, founder of Blue Collar Supper Club, a member's-only food club that hosts pop-up meals that cater to the queer community
- Brook LaFloe, founder of Niniijanis One of Ones, which provides educational support for Indigenous children with money raised by selling one-of-a-kind art and collectibles
- Temi Ogunrinde, who is working on a company that will use the entertainment industry to increase homeownership in marginalized communities
- Mary Taris, founder of Strive Publishing, a children's book publisher that aims to open a Black literary arts center in North Minneapolis
- Dane Verret, who is founding a learning institute based on the knowledge of Black and Indigenous people
Finnovation Lab launched in 2018 and was originally a partnership between Finnegans and coworking company Impact Hub, but is now run solely by Finnegans.
"The fellowship program feels more relevant and important than ever. We're proud to foster the growth and development of fellows tackling racial inequalities, housing inequalities and mental health education and the important change they're working to implement," Finnovation Lab and Finnegans Brew Co. founder Jacquie Berglund said in a statement.
