FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What do CHAMPIONS get?

A: Individuals with innovative ideas whose proposals are funded will qualify for:

1. Mentorship
2. Information and resources
3. Connections
4. Public visibility
5. Money

The Lab can only fully support the most promising projects – but anyone who submits a proposal will benefit from the Lab's training and resources.

Q: Does my idea qualify for a Lab grant?

A: The Civic Innovation Lab funds innovative ideas with civic intent that will potentially positively impact Greater Cleveland’s economy and can be categorized within at least one of the four categories:

Q: How DEVELOPED should an idea be?

A: Your idea may be at any stage of development, whether still a concept or an existing business. The Lab has funded ideas at all stages.

Our goal is to give you the tools to get to the next level. Our training sessions are designed to help you build your core idea into a viable business model and to help you clearly present your idea.   

Civic Innovation Lab is flexible responds to good ideas, as long as they can have an impact on the Greater Cleveland economy. If your idea is innovative, and you're committed to making it happen, the Lab will make sure you receive the support you need.

Q: Who are the MENTORS?

A: Our Mentor Panel is a unique group of community leaders who are experienced entrepreneurs or innovators in their fields. Our mentors are committed to offering their expertise and networks to new entrepreneurs in order to guide them successfully toward their goals.

 

Each member of our Panel has a background that prepares him or her to recognize strong proposal, contacts to facilitate networking and willingness to mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs. At any given time, 15-22 individuals serve on our panel.

Learn more about our Mentors!

Q: Who is a CHAMPION?

A: A Champion is any individual who has an innovative idea and the desire, energy and willingness to make that idea a reality for Greater Cleveland.

Champions are dedicated, passionate, and knowledgeable about their idea. Just as important, Champions are willing to take risks, including financial, career, and reputation risks.

There is no one background, education or experience that makes someone a Champion, but rather intangible qualities such as motivation, ingenuity, thoughtfulness and willingness to work hard are what make a Champion.

Learn more about our current Champions!

We are always looking for Champions...