Located in downtown Glen Ellyn, Innovation DuPage is a community built around the needs of startups, entrepreneurs, and small business owners.  Through our extensive network of partners, mentors, and investors, we have the resources and expertise needed for companies to build from the ground up. Signature programs are designed to quickly take businesses to the next level, and are led by industry professionals. Our work advances the entrepreneurial ecosystem, grows the regional economy, and is defined by the successes of those we serve. Welcome to Innovation DuPage.

Mission

Innovation DuPage advances economic development by connecting startups and small businesses with the knowledge, experts, and resources that are vital for success.  


Vision

As the premiere business incubator and accelerator for the region, Innovation DuPage generates resources, creates opportunities, and manifests a vibrant community dedicated to advancing the greater entrepreneurial ecosystem.      

Values   

Inspiration - Initiative -  Knowledge - Collaboration - Service - Integrity - Diversity


Awards

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are at the core of a just and equitable society. We embrace these virtues and commit to facilitating access to entrepreneurship and innovation for underserved, under-resourced and underrepresented founders. Our community network of partners and mentors leverage their skills and resources to empower BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and female entrepreneurs.

- More than 70% of all accelerator program participants have been women or minority businesses
- More than 60% of all incubation program members have been women or minority businesses


Board of Directors

Joe Cassidy, EdD, MBA

CHAIR and Board President
Assistant Vice President, Economic Development
Dean Continuing Education and Public Services College of DuPage
Kris Fay

Kris Fay, MBA

Board Secretary
Dean, Business and Applied Technology
College of DuPage
headshot of ID board treasurer David Virgilio

David Virgilio, CPA

Board Treasurer
Controller
College of DuPage
headshot of ID board member walter johnson

Walter J. Johnson

Director
Vice President, Institutional Advancement
College of DuPage
headshot of ID director Meredith Hannah

Meredith Hannah, MPA

Director
Economic Development Coordinator
Village of Glen Ellyn

Dr. Bob Clark, MBA

Director
Program Coordinator, HVACR
College of DuPage

Jake Mickley

Director
Founder
Hanford Technology Services


ID Team

Dan Facchini, MS, CFRE

Managing Director
linkedin

Jim Bell

Director Of Operations & PArtner Engagement

Avi Tiwari

Program Manager

Andrew Kelly

Marketing Associate

Joe Barron, MBA

Entrepreneur-in-Residence