Idea to Impact Newsletter
VentureWell
We support early-stage science- and technology-based inventors driven to solve the world’s biggest challenges.
???? Spotlighting the changemakers shaping the future of innovation
Introducing the 2025 Ecosystem Futures Fellowship Cohort
A distinguished group of 26 fellows from 18 institutions has been selected for the inaugural cohort of the Ecosystem Futures Fellowship—a pioneering program designed to strengthen the nation’s innovation and entrepreneurship (I&E) ecosystem. These leaders are driving change by embedding sustainability in STEM, expanding access to entrepreneurial resources, and fostering ecosystems that fuel innovation. Each team of fellows will receive $35,000 in funding and participate in a year of immersive programming, collaborating within a vibrant community of practice to drive long-term change. Through research, experiential learning, and cross-sector partnerships, they will build ecosystem action plans needed to support sustainable STEM entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Changing the Face of I&E, One Investment at a Time
Investor-mentors like Anne Maghas—angel investor, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Milestone Growth Capital Institute—play a crucial role in the success of the Aspire program. We spoke with Maghas about mentoring women founders of color, how angel investors fuel innovation, and what makes Aspire’s approach unique. Read her insights on leadership, investment, and the power of paying it forward.
Innovation Starts Here—Upcoming Opportunities for Student Innovators and Startups
??The VentureWell Ocean Enterprise Accelerator supports blue innovators in developing and commercializing new ocean data technologies. Stage 1 applications are now extended, so there’s still time! Stage 1 applications are due March 9, and the deadline for optional Stage 0 applications is March 31. Learn more and apply.
?? Help student innovators turn ideas into impact with the E-Team Program. Teams can unlock up to $25,000 in funding while receiving training to launch their ventures. Applications for Summer 2025 are now open. Register for an info session.
?? Calling all climatetech startups: Aspire Climatetech, our five-week hybrid program, prepares startups for investor engagement. Investor-mentors work one-on-one with startups to simulate due diligence and provide real-time feedback on deal room materials. Applications close April 14. We encourage founders to apply and share the opportunity with their networks.
Celebrate the Visionaries Shaping the Future of Innovation and Entrepreneurship!
The VIA Impact Awards honor leaders and organizations making transformative contributions across industry, government, and higher education to shape the future of STEM ecosystems. Help recognize those making a transformative impact—submit your nomination by March 25!
Innovation & Entrepreneurship News
VentureWell alum Danielle Boyer was named to The Washington Post’s inaugural Post Next 50 list, recognizing people making an impact on society in 2025.
Aspire alumnus Lynx Dx has commercially launched a prostate cancer test kit for at-home sample collection by patients.
We’re excited to help train the eight startups selected for the Advancing Climatetech and Clean Energy Leaders Program (ACCEL).
Greentown Labs has announced Georgina Campbell Flatter as its new CEO.
Meet the VentureWell team! We’ll be attending the NREL Industry Growth Forum and HBCU Engage later this month. Stop by our booth and say hello!
ICYMI: The FLIPspace: Advanced Mobility Arkansas program recently finished its second virtual workshop, convening 11 teams from universities and research institutions across the state.
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