The Shop at the CAC is thrilled to welcome the newest cohort of bold thinkers and passionate problem-solvers to Idea Village’s IDEAinstitute accelerator program!

IDEAinstitute is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs looking to take their big ideas and turn them into scalable ventures. Over the coming weeks, you’ll be immersed in a program led by Professor Felipe Massa, Ph.D., that blends the structure of weekly learning modules with the flexibility of a hybrid format. That means no matter where you’re tuning in from, you’ll have access to curated video content, actionable worksheets, and thought-provoking readings to guide your entrepreneurial path.

Each Tuesday evening Zoom call will give you a chance to connect with fellow founders, ask questions, and hear from seasoned entrepreneurs—many of them alumni of Idea Village themselves. These sessions will also feature guest speakers from across industries, offering invaluable insight into what it takes to launch, grow, and sustain a venture.

What makes IDEAinstitute truly special is its strong emphasis on community. You’ll have opportunities for one-on-one coaching with local founders, investors, and business leaders who know firsthand what it takes to make it in the startup world. The connections you make here may turn into lasting partnerships, mentorships, and friendships.

And while most of the program is virtual, we’re especially excited about the in-person opportunities during the final week—including the highly anticipated IDEAinstitute Pitch Night, where selected entrepreneurs will pitch their ventures to a panel of expert judges for a chance to win a prize.

From all of us here at The Shop at the CAC, welcome! We’re proud to be part of a community that supports innovation, creativity, and bold action. We can’t wait to see what you build.