Learn How Innovation Labs Support Rural Entrepreneurs and Main Streets

Join us Thursday, September 22, at 10:30 a.m. to learn how your community can convert underused spaces into entrepreneurial hubs! ECICOG will host a webinar highlighting the Innovation Lab model. Innovation Labs provide coworking space and coaching services for entrepreneurs to get a foothold on their business while remaining in their own communities. Webinar attendees will hear from panelists Jordan DeGree, President of Idea Bright, and Derek Lumsden, Jones County Economic Development Director. DeGree’s non-profit Idea Bright founded The Innovation Lab network, which has locations in Cascade, Dubuque, Dyersville and Independence. Lumsden was instrumental in developing a new Innovation Lab in Monticello.

The Monticello Innovation Lab, a first for the ECICOG region, is housed in a former Dollar General store that had been vacant for several years. The Lab includes a common coworking area, private offices, a shared conference room, coffee station and restrooms. Lab users have access to 1:1 virtual coaching services, allowing them to access a broad range of business experts without needing to travel. The Monticello location is unique in that it also houses a Creative Adventure Lab, which promotes STEM learning for children.

To register for the webinar, click here. For more information, visit the Innovation Lab website or contact ECICOG Executive Director Karen Kurt at karen.kurt@ecicog.org.