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Breaking Barriers: Resources for Entrepreneurs Empower Innovators at IdeaSpark Program
Iona’s Hynes Institute and The Viscardi Center Join Forces to Break Barriers in Entrepreneurship
The Viscardi Center continues its impactful partnership with Iona University’s Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, enhancing resources for entrepreneurs through tailored programming for entrepreneurs with disabilities. Central to this collaboration is the IdeaSpark program, now in its second year, which delivers an eight-week course designed to help participants develop and refine their entrepreneurial ideas. The program culminates in the highly anticipated PitchFest, held during Disability Pride Month, where participants compete for $7,500 in non-equity cash grants to propel their ventures forward.
This year’s IdeaSpark cohort brought together nine talented individuals from across the nation, each showcasing innovative ideas aimed at addressing critical needs. Business concepts ranged from mental health services to accessibility tools and healthy eating solutions, highlighting the diverse ways entrepreneurship can drive meaningful change.
One of the standout participants, Miguel Angel Davila, earned third place and a $1,000 prize for his unique business, Davila Applied Anthropological Research. This venture exemplifies how resources for entrepreneurs can be harnessed to create businesses that are both innovative and impactful. Miguel’s background in anthropology enables him to approach business challenges from a fresh perspective, offering research-driven strategies to improve organizational structure and operational efficiency. His work empowers businesses to thrive through thoughtful and customized solutions.
Launched in 2022, Davila Applied Anthropological Research is a certified Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) based in New York City. The recognition Miguel received at PitchFest underscores the value of programs like IdeaSpark in providing resources for entrepreneurs that empower diverse entrepreneurs to succeed.
Through the continued partnership between the Hynes Institute and The Viscardi Center, aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities gain access to critical tools, mentorship, and funding opportunities that are often difficult to secure. These resources for entrepreneurs not only foster individual success but also contribute to building a more inclusive economic landscape.
By integrating innovative programming with a commitment to equity and accessibility, the IdeaSpark program exemplifies how collaborations can break down barriers to entrepreneurship. The success of participants like Miguel Angel Davila demonstrates the transformative potential of providing targeted resources for entrepreneurs, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and turn innovative ideas into reality.
Transformative Resources for Entrepreneurs
At the heart of IdeaSpark is the commitment to provide tailored resources for entrepreneurs, including education, mentorship, and financial backing. This commitment ensures that aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those with disabilities, have the support they need to succeed in a competitive market. Dr. Chris Rosa, president and CEO of The Viscardi Center, highlighted this mission during the event:
“Through IdeaSpark, The Viscardi Center – a global leader in disability inclusion – is proud to partner with Iona University and its world-class Hynes Institute of Entrepreneurship & Innovation to create truly inclusive training for aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities,” said Dr. Rosa. “Working collaboratively and drawing on their strengths, Iona and Viscardi are ensuring that founders with disabilities have the capacity and opportunity to participate more equitably in economic development.”
This collaboration bridges gaps in access, enabling entrepreneurs with disabilities to participate in economic growth and innovation on equal footing. By providing comprehensive resources for entrepreneurs, this partnership ensures that all participants have access to the necessary tools to transform their ideas into successful ventures. The educational component of the program equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of running a business. Mentorship from experienced professionals offers guidance on overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities, while financial support helps turn entrepreneurial visions into reality.
By offering a holistic suite of resources for entrepreneurs, IdeaSpark is reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape, ensuring that no one is left behind due to physical or social barriers. This initiative not only supports individuals but also contributes to a more inclusive and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering innovation in ways that benefit the broader community.
Celebrating Success Stories
The PitchFest showcased the profound impact of empowering entrepreneurs with the right resources for entrepreneurs. Eric Ryan, a Henry Viscardi School alumnus, earned first place for his accessible transportation service, TRIPPr. This achievement highlights the importance of providing tailored resources for entrepreneurs, particularly for those with disabilities, to create solutions that are not only innovative but also deeply needed in society.
Reflecting on his journey, Ryan shared, “Once I had a van, it opened up many opportunities for me, allowing me to go to college and attend events. Winning this PitchFest validates the need for accessible transportation on Long Island, and I hope to make a difference with my initiative.” Ryan’s story highlights how resources for entrepreneurs—such as funding, mentorship, and training—can help overcome barriers and create businesses that address real-world challenges. His service, TRIPPr, is more than a business; it’s a solution for those facing mobility challenges and difficulties accessing reliable transportation.
The PitchFest provided not only a platform for entrepreneurs like Ryan but also resources for entrepreneurs that gave them the tools to transform their ideas into businesses that can make a difference. From cash grants to guidance from experienced mentors, these resources are essential for fostering innovation and enabling entrepreneurs to bring their visions to life. In this case, Ryan’s initiative is addressing a critical need for accessible transportation in his community, demonstrating the powerful impact of well-supported entrepreneurial endeavors.
In an unexpected twist, Dr. Chris Rosa, president & CEO of The Viscardi Center, became one of TRIPPr’s first customers after the event. When his van broke down, Dr. Rosa booked a ride home with TRIPPr, turning an inconvenience into an endorsement of the service’s necessity and value. This moment highlighted the immediate relevance of Ryan’s business and underscored the broader significance of resources for entrepreneurs. By providing the necessary tools and support, the IdeaSpark program empowered Ryan to create a business that not only met his own needs but also served a broader community.
This story exemplifies how resources for entrepreneurs can turn challenges into opportunities, ultimately transforming ideas into successful ventures that contribute positively to society. The collaboration between The Viscardi Center and Iona University’s Hynes Institute is setting a powerful example of how inclusive resources can help entrepreneurs thrive.
Inspiring New Generations
The event also honored Kimberly Minto, the previous year’s winner, who exemplifies how resources for entrepreneurs can help turn personal passions into successful ventures. Kimberly, who started as a blogger, transitioned into a thriving entrepreneur with her online magazine, Sitting Beauty. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of access to targeted resources for entrepreneurs. Through IdeaSpark, Kimberly was able to tap into the mentorship, funding, and guidance necessary to elevate her idea and create a platform that empowers others with disabilities.
Kimberly’s story not only showcases her personal success but also highlights how resources for entrepreneurs can break down barriers and open doors for those who might otherwise be overlooked. Her magazine, Sitting Beauty, is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and talent of individuals with disabilities, particularly in the realms of fashion and beauty. It provides a space for people to feel seen and valued, while also offering an avenue for brands and businesses to engage with a growing and important audience.
During her address, Kimberly took the opportunity to reflect on her own journey and the significant impact that programs like IdeaSpark had on her entrepreneurial success:
“Programs like this give people with disabilities not just the tools to succeed but also the belief that their ideas matter. That’s the real power of resources for entrepreneurs like these—they empower us to see ourselves as leaders and innovators.”
Kimberly’s words resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the fact that the right resources don’t just provide entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge and skills to start a business. They also foster a mindset of confidence and possibility. When entrepreneurs are given the support they need, they are not only able to turn their ideas into viable businesses but also become role models for others. The resources for entrepreneurs provided through programs like IdeaSpark have the power to reshape the entrepreneurial landscape, creating more inclusive opportunities for everyone, regardless of ability.
Kimberly’s success story reinforces the importance of access to the right resources and mentorship for entrepreneurs with disabilities, proving that with the right tools, anyone can succeed.
A Partnership Driving Impact
Dr. Christoph Winkler, endowed professor and founding program director at Iona University, underscored the broader significance of the partnership between Iona University’s Hynes Institute and The Viscardi Center during his opening remarks. He highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where every entrepreneur, regardless of background or ability, can thrive.
“This partnership aligns with Iona’s values to foster and support a diverse community of learners. We’re dedicated to cultivating a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and opportunity for all,” said Dr. Winkler.
This partnership is a powerful example of how resources for entrepreneurs can be harnessed to create lasting change. The Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and The Viscardi Center are setting a new standard for resources for entrepreneurs, demonstrating how collaboration can break down barriers and provide equal opportunities for everyone. By nurturing a diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem, these organizations are not just creating programs—they are shaping the future of entrepreneurship itself.
The initiative focuses on providing resources for entrepreneurs that go beyond traditional educational offerings. Participants have access to mentorship from experienced professionals, specialized workshops, and funding opportunities designed to bring their business ideas to life. By offering a comprehensive support system, the partnership ensures that entrepreneurs with disabilities are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.
Dr. Winkler’s remarks emphasized that the success of this initiative lies in its ability to support diverse voices and create opportunities for growth and innovation. The Hynes Institute and The Viscardi Center are not just focusing on business development; they are creating an ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs to push the boundaries of what’s possible. Resources for entrepreneurs, such as access to education, mentorship, and funding, are vital to catalyzing innovation and building a more inclusive entrepreneurial landscape.
By providing these resources for entrepreneurs, Iona University and The Viscardi Center are creating a ripple effect that will inspire future generations of entrepreneurs. Their partnership exemplifies the transformative power of access to the right tools and support, ensuring that innovation can thrive regardless of physical or social barriers.
The Future of IdeaSpark
As the IdeaSpark program continues to grow, it sets a powerful example of how inclusive initiatives can redefine entrepreneurship. By prioritizing equity and breaking down barriers, The Viscardi Center and the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation are shaping a future where resources for entrepreneurs are accessible to everyone, regardless of physical, social, or economic challenges. This commitment to inclusivity is unlocking the potential of individuals who have historically been overlooked in traditional entrepreneurial ecosystems.
The resources for entrepreneurs offered through the IdeaSpark program provide much more than just business training. Participants gain access to mentorship from industry leaders, workshops that build critical skills, and funding opportunities that can help turn business ideas into reality. These resources ensure that aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities can not only compete but also thrive in the business world. The program is designed to help them develop innovative solutions to real-world problems, from accessibility tools to mental health services, and everything in between.
By providing these essential resources for entrepreneurs, The Viscardi Center and the Hynes Institute are paving the way for more diverse voices to be heard in the business world. Entrepreneurs with disabilities often face unique challenges, from limited access to funding to lack of networks and mentorship. But through initiatives like IdeaSpark, these barriers are being dismantled, creating a more equitable entrepreneurial landscape for all.
The partnership between The Viscardi Center and Iona University is not only about supporting individual entrepreneurs but also about reshaping the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem. By integrating diversity and inclusion into the core of their mission, they are creating a ripple effect that encourages other organizations and institutions to adopt similar practices. In turn, this ensures that innovation thrives in all its forms, and entrepreneurs from every background have the tools they need to succeed.
Through innovative programs like IdeaSpark, the partnership is not only changing lives but also reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape. By ensuring that resources for entrepreneurs are available to a wider audience, they are fostering an environment where creativity, collaboration, and innovation are given the space to grow. These efforts are vital in creating a more inclusive future for entrepreneurship, where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can contribute to and benefit from the world of business.
The growing success of the IdeaSpark program is a testament to the transformative power of accessible resources for entrepreneurs. As more individuals are empowered with the support they need, the future of entrepreneurship will be brighter, more diverse, and more inclusive than ever before.
Empowering Entrepreneurs with Disabilities: Insights from IdeaSpark and the Viscardi Center Partnership
“I am passionate about using anthropological insights to help businesses better understand their structures and strategies. This opportunity has given me the platform to expand my reach and help more organizations succeed,” said Miguel Angel Davila.
“Through IdeaSpark, The Viscardi Center – a global leader in disability inclusion – is proud to partner with Iona University and its world-class Hynes Institute of Entrepreneurship & Innovation to create truly inclusive training for aspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities,” and by “Working collaboratively and drawing on their strengths, Iona and Viscardi are ensuring that founders with disabilities have the capacity and opportunity to participate more equitably in economic development.” said Dr. Chris Rosa, president & CEO of The Viscardi Center. The Viscardi Center is located in Long Island, New York.
Dr. Christoph Winkler, endowed professor and founding program director, opened the event, emphasizing the partnership’s alignment with Iona’s commitment to fostering a diverse learning community. “We’re dedicated to cultivating a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and opportunity for all,” said Winkler. Iona University is located in New Rochelle, New York.
The 2024 IdeaSpark Pitchfest also featured the following founders and business ideas:
- Eric Ryan, TRIPPr, first place: Accessible transportation service launched in July 2023 with specialized customer care.
- Maria Torre, All Can do!, second place: Arts and crafts for individuals with disabilities.
- Christina Sparrock, See the Person: Mental health services with community workshops on domestic violence.
- Gabrielle Mendonca, Accessibility Consulting: Accessibility consulting firm.
- Joe Marks, The Shopping Plaza: Digital mall offering personalized, accessible shopping experiences.
- Marqueeta Hughes, Walk with Confidence: Luxury women’s footwear brand with conscious design.
- Nicole Harper, Harper & Enigma Custom Creations, LLC: Developed an accessibility tool for clothing racks usable by everyone.
- Patricia Johnson, Jammin Health: Revamped unhealthy dishes into delicious, nutritious meals.
Anne Marie Hynes, benefactor of the Hynes Institute, attended the event and praised the participants for their entrepreneurial spirit. Kimberly Minto, the 2023 IdeaSpark Pitchfest winner, returned to present this year’s grant awards.
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