Innovation DuPage Member Survey
Please take 5 minutes to complete our FY2024 Annual Survey.  About 18% of ID Members have participated so far, and your input is critical to the discussion of our collective growth.  To access the survey, click here.

AI Collaborative Program Opens Tomorrow!
Applications open tomorrow for our 5-week Generative AI Fundamentals program for small businesses. Learn to implement practical AI solutions with expert guidance and develop your personalized AI roadmap. No technical background needed! For more details, click here.

LinkedIn Badges
Enhance your professional profile by adding Innovation DuPage to LinkedIn!

• Members can add "Innovation DuPage Member" under the "Experience" tab.
• Mentors can showcase their contributions under "Volunteering."
• Owner-2-CEO Program graduates can add their achievement under "Licenses & Certifications."

Updating your profile helps tell your unique entrepreneurship journey while connecting with our dynamic ID community.

Much Appreciated
Thank you to Nick Hudson, Owner-2-CEO graduate and founder of Eno Homecare, and Mike Varon, Strategic Business Advisor, for their presentations at our recent Member Meetup. Nick introduced us to Eno Homecare's non-medical home care services, including daily assistance, companionship, and specialized Alzheimer's care provided by their well-trained caregivers. Mike shared the various ways he can support our members - remember, if you're facing business challenges, you can always schedule time with him for personalized guidance.

Connect with Clean Tech Leaders on CTLR's New Slack Channel
The Cleantech Leaders Roundtable (CTLR) has launched an exclusive Slack channel that's already connecting over 50 industry leaders. If you work in the clean tech industry, this is your opportunity to join this growing professional community.

The platform offers a valuable space to network with peers, share insights, and stay updated on the latest industry developments. Take advantage of this new resource to expand your connections in the clean technology sector. Contact Dan Facchini to learn more. 

Coming up:

• 2nd Annual Government Contracting Summit, 03.11, 03.12: The Illinois APEX Accelerator is hosting its 2nd Annual Government Contracting Summit on March 11-12, 2025, in Forest Park. Connect with representatives from the Department of Defense, NASA, major contractors like Walsh Federal and Caterpillar, local municipalities, and innovation hubs. The main summit runs March 11 from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (doors open at 8:00 a.m.), register here. 
• Small Business Networking Reception, 03.11 & 03.12: Old National Bank invites minority and women-owned businesses to explore their Empowerment Small Business Loan Program at upcoming networking events. The program offers loans up to $5 million with expanded credit guidelines, lower credit score requirements, and modified collateral terms for businesses that might not qualify through traditional lending. Financing options include lines of credit, equipment financing, and owner-occupied real estate. Join fellow business leaders for networking receptions on March 11 in DeKalb or March 12 in Waukegan from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For location details and to register, click here.
• ID Workshop: The Strategic Roadmap, 03.19: Join us at Innovation DuPage on March 19 at 5:30 p.m. for our next workshop featuring Adam Lejeunekopp, CEO of Madak, the agency behind our brand guide and website. Learn to build an effective digital presence, find growth opportunities, and create data-driven marketing plans. To get the most value, be sure to complete their Digital Impact Assessment beforehand for your personalized analysis. To learn more and register, click here.  
• Member Meetup, 03.19: Don't miss our next Member Meetup with Bradley Nuccio presenting as our Member Spotlight, founder of Life Made Easy LLC and Construction Owner-2-CEO graduate. Justin Mayer, Strategic Technology Advisor, will lead a Problem Solving Session where you can get first-hand guidance on technology solutions and applications.

Sign up to present at an upcoming Member Meetup 
Showcase your business at a Member Meetup! We're looking for members to present as our Member Spotlight, ID Member Resource, or host a Problem Solving session. This is your chance to present your work, share your achievements, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs. Sign up here.

Let us help you share your success with the ID community!
Share a win from this week – big or small. It could be featured in our next letter! Email your accomplishment to Hannah Macey.

Reminder: Innovation DuPage is open for members as a coworking space 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Many thanks, and have a great week,

Dan Facchini,
Managing Director,
Innovation DuPage