Daryn Dodson is working with The Idea Village team and network of professionals and university students to identify promising entrepreneurial individuals in New Orleans and provide the human, financial and social capital to accelerate their growth. For additional information, please contact Daryn at daryn@ideavillage.org.
The Idea Village Programs
The Idea Village assists entrepreneurs by providing in-depth business consulting, connecting entrepreneurs to business mentors, and facilitating access to professional services and capital resources.
As of July 2007, The Idea Village has:
Provided direct assistance to over 250 local entrepreneurs through grants, technical assistance, and educational events.
Retained over 1019 jobs and $68 million in revenue.
Since Katrina, 94% businesses supported remain open; 37% have expanded.
Executed initiatives on 5 strategic neighborhood corridors.
The Idea Village Entrepreneurs exhibit the following:
For-profit ventures
Located in Orleans Parish
Viable plan for growth
Potential for job creation
Pioneering spirit
The Idea Village focuses on targeted clusters of entrepreneurs:
Joined by industry or geography, to secure strong, sustainable corridors that will serve as community "anchors."
Current neighborhoods of focus include Magazine Street, French Quarter, Oak Street, Freret Street and Bayou Road.
Industries of focus include technology, retail, childcare, tourism, food, music and art.
The Idea Village Process:
1. Company Applies
2. The Idea Village Hosts Advise Session
3. Company is Engaged and Assisted
4. Investments are Made
5. Acceleration of Companies Begins
The duration of services depends on the entrepreneur’s individual needs for ongoing support.
MENU OF SERVICES:
Entrepreneurial success is based on the ability to leverage both knowledge and resources. By offering access to both, The Idea Village accelerates the growth of entrepreneurial communities.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Strategy Development
Financial Models
Research
Connection to Resources/Mentors
MARKETING
Press Releases and PR
Media Training
Marketing Plan
Branding/Logo Development
Web Development
Event Facilitation
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Grants
Capital Raising
PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT
HR Audit
Accounting Audit
Legal Audit
Industry Audit