Fairmount Innovation Lab (FIL) celebrated the final pitches of companies that participated in FIL’s Launchpad program, including consumer tech, food, beauty and design companies. Pitching companies included Soul Plates Catering, Events by Emonica, Natralee, Queya Beauty, Joie Design Studio and ExpressCuts 10.18.
FIL Launchpad is an intensive, selective program for highly committed creative and social entrepreneurs who are ready to take their ideas and businesses to the next level. “This customized program provides selected entrepreneurs with vital information through weekly presentations, peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, access to a variety of subject matter experts and a community of entrepreneurs,” explained Liora Beer, Director of FIL.
So far, 45 creative and social enterprises have participated in FIL Launchpad programs including Begin to Dream Again, I am Kreyol, Queens Co, Study Buddiez, The Bold & Beautiful Women Circle, Jewelz on Demand, Beauty N Simplicity and So Gutsy.
"Fairmount Innovation Lab was monumental in setting up my business,” said cohort participant Nivdarla Anselme, founder and CEO of Queya Beauty, an online portal of skincare and hair products for black women. “In a short time period, FIL has given me the tools and resources to look at my business in a realistic yet optimistic manner in order to be successful. The collaboration between the companies has been so helpful in my growth as well."
“I am so impressed by the progress the cohort made throughout the program as they applied learning about idea validation, market research, pricing, sales, marketing and branding, finances and developing a compelling story and pitch. They were a very collaborative cohort, learning and supporting each other through their entrepreneurial journey,” added Anuradha Yadav, FIL Launchpad Facilitator.
FIL is currently recruiting for the next Launchpad and will select up to 20 creative and social enterprise companies from among the pool of applicants. On average, 20% of applicants are selected for FIL ‘s startup program. More information on applications can be found on http://www.lab584.org/application. The application deadline is Monday, October 30, 2017 with FIL Launchpad kicking off in the first week of November.
About Fairmount Innovation Lab
FIL supports creative and social entrepreneurs in Massachusetts through programming, events, an accelerator program for early stage creative and social impact companies, co-working space, pop-up partnerships and a maker space. Located in Upham Corner in Dorchester, FIL is part of the Fairmount Cultural Corridor, a collaborative initiative and partnership which draws upon the Fairmount Commuter Line to support diversity, livable neighborhoods and a sustainable, local, creative community. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.lab584.org/.
