Collaborate.
Scale.
Succeed.

Innovation DuPage is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that serves as both a business incubator for early-stage companies and a business accelerator for scaling emerging small businesses.

What We Do

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.

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

Diversity, Equity, and 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.

70%+

Of all accelerator program participants have been women or minority businesses

60%+

Of all incubation program members have been women or minority businesses

Awards

College of DuPage and Innovation DuPage
2023 Growth Award: Melissa Villanueva, CEO and Founder of Brewpoint Coffee
2023 Regional Spirit Award: Shian Jno-Lewis, President of Tidy Queens
2023 Innovation Award: Lance Rock, Principle & Founder of Audit Master Pro
2022 Innovation Award: Keith Wakeman, CEO & Co-Founder of SuperBetter
2022 Outstanding Service to Entrepreneurs Award: Joseph Cassidy, College of DuPage and Innovation DuPage
2022 Innovation Award: Maureen Longoria, Co-founder of LivNow Relocation Services
2022 Young Entrepreneur Award (under 40): Sarah Dickinson, Founder of Dickinson Strategy & Consulting LLC
2021 Award of Excellence for Outstanding College/CorporatePartnership: Innovation DuPage
2021 Early Stage Award: Larry Blackburn, President of Datatelligent
2020 Young Entrepreneur Award: Jason Krantz, CEO of Strategy Titan
2019 Early Stage Award: Joe Barron, CEO of Gray Matters Games

Board of Directors

Joe Cassidy
Chair and Board President
Jake Mickley
Board Secretary
David Virgilio
Board Treasurer
Walter J. Johnson
Director
Meredith Hannah
Director
Bob Clark
Director
Shaiska Malca
Director
Janice Kaushal
Director
Gautam Wadhwa
Director

Team

Dan Facchini
Managing Director
Jim Bell
Director of Operations & Partner Engagement
Avi Tiwari
Program Manager
Mike Varon
Strategic Business Advisor
Bob Lapinski
Partner Manager
Anushka Verma
IT Project Manager

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