Nonprofit organizations looking to strengthen their impact and build capacity for the future now have a new opportunity through Catalyst Grants, a collaborative program between The Innovation Lab and the Alliant Energy Foundation.    Designed to help mission-driven organizations move bold ideas forward, Catalyst Grants provide nonprofits with access to customized strategy, innovation and organizational development support. Rather than offering traditional financial grants alo

THE CHALLENGE Since 1932, the Dubuque Rescue Mission has served individuals experiencing  poverty and homelessness in the Dubuque community. As needs evolved and resources fluctuated, the organization recognized an opportunity to reassess how  its work aligned with available capacity. Leadership looked for ways to focus programs more effectively while engaging new partners and supporters in imagining a best-practice approach to serving under-housed and unhoused individuals. T

The energy was high, and the room was full as more than 70 community members gathered to support local entrepreneurs at this year’s Dubuque County Business Competition, powered by Dupaco Credit Union. The event brought together founders, small business owners, community leaders, and supporters for an evening of pitches, connection, and celebration of innovation happening right here in Dubuque County. This year’s competition featured 18 participating businesses, each sharing t

THE CHALLENGE For many years, Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity has helped families achieve  safe, affordable homeownership through a trusted model. But rising material and labor costs, combined with increasing competition for philanthropic dollars, have made this model harder to sustain. The organization needed a forward-looking plan that would strengthen short-term impact while ensuring long-term stability. THE INNOVATION WORKS® APPROACH Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity pa