Category: Programs

Innovation Depot Launches Record-Breaking Voltage Cohort 9

Posted on October 22, 2024

Birmingham, Ala. (October 22, 2024) – Innovation Depot is thrilled to announce the launch of the ninth iteration of its Voltage program, welcoming an impressive cohort of 33 entrepreneurs working on 29 unique ideas—the program’s largest and most dynamic group to date. Voltage, which began in 2021, continues to expand its reach and impact, drawing a diverse range of motivated participants eager to transform their tech-driven ideas into reality.

The five-week program is designed to accommodate busy schedules, offering flexibility and access to vital resources. Entrepreneurs in the cohort benefit from expert guidance and cutting-edge tools, all while testing and refining their concepts outside of the traditional 9-to-5 workday.

This year’s cohort highlights Voltage’s growing influence, marked by a record-breaking number of applicants and participants. This growth is a clear indication of the program’s continued success in empowering the next wave of tech innovators.

Ritchie Kruunenberg, Director of Marketing & Operations at Innovation Depot, emphasized the significance of this milestone:

“Voltage’s continued growth speaks volumes about the demand for programs that support early-stage ideas. This cohort isn’t just larger in numbers; it’s filled with individuals who are incredibly motivated and ready to put in the work to make their ideas a reality. Our program has helped over 130 participants to date, and each cohort just keeps getting stronger. We’re excited to see what this group will accomplish.”

Brooke Gillis, CEO of Innovation Depot, also commented on the program’s remarkable trajectory:

“The growth of Voltage is a testament to its importance in Birmingham’s tech ecosystem. Each year, we see more aspiring entrepreneurs join the program, many of whom go on to launch successful startups from Innovation Depot. This surge in participation reflects not only the success of past cohorts but also the increasing visibility and impact of the program.”

Experienced mentors from AppThink, powered by HVL, continue to guide participants through the program, ensuring they make well-informed decisions as they bring their ideas to life. The program kicked off last week with an energizing event at Monday Night Brewing, where participants engaged in relationship-building activities led by Raven Johnson through The Gathering Lab.

Big welcome to the members of Cohort 9:

Elias Hendricks, Christina Renteria, Nathan Chester
Bryan Lai
Katie Marietta-Tondin
Le’Terrica Montgomery
Lori Edmonds, Jenna LaChenaye, Josephine Prado
Danielle Womack
Jacob Norgord
Adam Richey
Stephanie Willis
Oscar Whit Kilby
Paula Guevara
Miho Kubagawa
Matt Stroman
Erica Robinson
Tatianna Turrentine-Long
Kris Hazard
Donisha Collier
Sarah Minor
Joshua Gilmer
Venu Gopal Kundella
LaTrisha Moore
Myles Taylor
Jinida Holt
Kimberley Barnes
Keith Saffold
Jasmine Fells
Lathan Bennett
Hazina Dorius
Zachary Farmer

About Innovation Depot:

Innovation Depot, a 501(c)3 nonprofit tech and entrepreneurial support organization. Housed in a 140,000 square foot building in downtown Birmingham, The Depot offers various programs for aspiring founders as well as incubation space for scaling companies. For more information, please visit innovationdepot.org.



Innovation Depot Launches Boost 2, Driving Startups to Secure Their First Customers

Posted on October 22, 2024

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Aug. 29, 2024) – Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, Innovation Depot proudly announces the launch of Boost Cohort 2, an advanced program designed to help early-stage founders refine their Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) and secure their first customers. Boost addresses a critical gap in the startup ecosystem, supporting entrepreneurs who have validated their tech ideas and are now working towards making their ventures full-time pursuits.

Key Features of Boost:

  • Tailored for Emerging Startups: Boost continues to cater to early-stage founders who are ready to transition from idea validation to tangible market entry.
  • Customer Acquisition Focus: The curriculum emphasizes customer discovery, MVP iteration, and the strategies necessary to secure the first paying customer.
  • Comprehensive Support: Participants will benefit from the network of Innovation Depot’s mentors, industry leaders, and fellow entrepreneurs, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of early customer engagement.
  • Hands-On Learning: The program provides practical, objective-driven sessions, allowing founders to test and refine their products in real-world scenarios.

“We are thrilled to welcome a new group of founders into Boost, a program that directly addresses the critical steps from MVP development to securing that pivotal first customer,” says Ritchie Kruunenberg, Director of Marketing & Operations of Innovation Depot. “Our goal is to provide these entrepreneurs with the tools, guidance, and network they need to transform their ideas into viable, market-ready businesses.”

Trevor Newberry, Co-Founder of AppThink and Director of Product at Harmony Venture Labs, also expressed his enthusiasm: “With Boost, we’re addressing a crucial gap in entrepreneurial training—securing that all-important first customer. The program is designed to not only guide founders through the process of product development but also to help them learn, iterate, and ultimately sell their products. We’re eager to see the positive impact this cohort will have on the Birmingham startup ecosystem.”

Meet the Second Boost Cohort

We are excited to introduce the innovative founders selected for Boost Cohort 2. This cohort showcases the diversity and creativity that Innovation Depot fosters:

Eric & Olivia Lott, Vendtor

Hunter Harper & Matt Byars

Jason Mann, Thrive14

John Walter, Proxylink

Katrina Jones, Sportsify

Lee Benson Martin, Mealvana

Rebecca Dobrinski, CommuServe

Shekinah Joy Lee, Purposed Joy

William Glass, Ostrich

As they progress towards launching their MVPs and gaining their first customers, Innovation Depot is committed to providing an environment that supports growth and collaboration.

About Innovation Depot:

Innovation Depot, a 501(c)3 nonprofit tech and entrepreneurial support organization. Housed in a 140,000 square foot building in downtown Birmingham, The Depot offers various programs for aspiring founders as well as incubation space for scaling companies. For more information, please visit innovationdepot.org.