Alexis Dishman is one of the Innovation Connector’s “key connectors.” She’s not just the smiling face that greets you when you walk in the door; she helps make connections for clients, stakeholders, and partners.
“If you fly over a rainforest, pretty much all you see is the tops of the trees,” said Ted Baker, executive director. “But, what is really happening down there? There’s an entire ecosystem under those trees. When you come to the Innovation Connector, we can help you by connecting you to a component of our “ecosystem” you may need.”
Yes, the Innovation Connector offers modern, well-equipped office space to entrepreneurs and startups. But in addition to space, the Innovation Connector offers a unique array of business consulting services to help your business succeed and grow.
The Coding Connector, Them LLC, and TechWise Academy have collaborated to create the first ever Roblox Training Camp in Indiana. Learn from one of the top game designers on the Roblox platform as well as the owner of THEM Magazines in an all-day course to be held at the Innovation Connector in Muncie on Saturday, February 17th from 9am – 5pm.
About a year ago, Ted Baker, executive director of the Innovation Connector, decided to take a hard look at the Innovation Connector’s branding—and perhaps refresh it. Ted sat down with Richard Crist, CEO of Whitinger Strategic Services, and together they worked on answering similar questions about the Innovation Connector.
“Entertaining tiny humans and trying to get dinner made can sometimes feel like a noteworthy feat. Sometimes you need a new idea. Sometimes toys just lose their appeal and you have to get creative,” said Ashley Runkle. Ashley and her husband, Bob, pitched the idea for Kiddo Keepsakes, a children’s activity set, at the Innovation Connector’s BIG Idea Pitch.
In the spirit of ”getting connected”, the Innovation Connector is bringing a new initiative to Muncie to do just that. It’s called “1 Million Cups.” 1 Million Cups is a nationwide program created and funded by The Kauffman Foundation, designed to educate, engage and accelerate the growth and implementation of entrepreneurial ideas.
A professional and beautiful building, and amenities such as plenty of free parking and back-office staff support, adds to the credibility and professionalism of an organization. Align these attributes with matching values and missions and you find a resource partner that calls the Innovation Connector their home—The Shafer Leadership Academy.
The Innovation Connector team believes connection drives innovation. So when Executive Director Ted Baker was introduced to Kyle Parker and Mark Caravello and learned of their mobile app The Traveler, he knew there were resources available that could help their business succeed.
The Innovation Connector has a unique opportunity for young people to learn “the language of the future” — computer coding. “The students learn not only how to code, but also learn how to problem solve,” said Brandon Coppernoll.