Solution

Supporting a Regional Community of Food Organizations

This solution addresses limited support for place-based food ventures in Detroit for triple bottom line food businesses

Problem Description

FoodLab Detroit (the focus of this solution) was created as a way to unite organizations all working towards the goal of increasing the availability of good food in the Detroit area. These businesses often have humble beginnings and benefit greatly from the support of a common-interest organization. Among other things, it allows them to meet like-minded organizations, receive mentorship opportunities, leverage a trusted brand, and acquire essential beginner business skills .

Building Blocks

Story

FoodLab Detroit started in 2011 with a handful of food entrepreneurs dedicated to further supporting the growing 'good food' movement in Detroit. Over time the organization has expanded to include a variety of programs and events surrounding this theme. In 2013 FoodLab held its first membership drive, accepting an inaugural group of 50 organizations. There are currently 154 member organizations.

Photos

Resources

Become a Member
Apply to become a member of the FoodLab Detroit community
Member Directory

Contributed By

Devita Davison, FoodLab Detroit
Angela Dagle, FoodLab Detroit

Solution Stage

One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn more

STAGE	SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED	EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES	RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING	FINANCE REQUIRED	KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED	GOAL
Growing scaling and spreading6	Strong leadership, management, implementation skills	Business or organisational growth Franchising Licensing Legislation Spreading ideas Transferring practice	Fidelity assessments may be important Strong capacity needed to ensure transfer of practice MEDIUM	Equity, loans, payment by results, social impact bonds HIGH	Evidence derived from evaluations in multiple sites, and independently run randomised control trials	Innovation or impact at scale

Submitted By

Bryan Lehrer