Category: News and Announcements

Meet the 2020 JumpStart Cohort

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]We’re thrilled to kick off 2020 by welcoming these 10 creative and ambitious maker-entrepreneurs to Generator.

These folks were selected by a panel of business leaders, designers, and manufacturing professionals for the 2020 JumpStart cohort, our business development program organized in partnership with LaunchVT.

Their ideas are impressive, their prototypes are in-progress, and their dreams are big. Expect big moves from this crew.

Meet the entrepreneurs below — and don’t miss our upcoming JumpStart talks![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8251″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Michael Zebrowski, Up End This

You may recognize Michael as our February/March 2019 Maker-in-Resident. During his residency, Michael built the first prototype of a SATELLITE, a modular micro-architectural solution for work and life. Now Michael is readying his business, Up End This, to take SATELLITEs to market.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8249″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Ren Weiner, Miss Weinerz

Ren is known best for sweet collaborations within the circular economy. Dedicated to ecological resilience, Ren is curating a line of reusable & plantable food packaging focused on fibers that grow in our currant landscape.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8252″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Dwyer Haney, Cole Forge Stoves

After the 2019 Halloween storm Dwyer’s shop flooded and he had nowhere to work. Then he heard about Generator. Now Dwyer is one of the Generator metal shop’s most active users. He builds multi-function wood stoves that replace the three appliances in the modern home that use the most fossil fuels: space heaters, stoves for cooking, and domestic hot water heaters. With design and fabrication ongoing, Dwyer is excited to use JumpStart as an opportunity to plan for business growth.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8279″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Laura Neal, Malas and Mandalas

Laura creates jewelry made of lava stones and gemstones that can be used for meditation and aromatherapy. Her goal is to make jewelry that helps the wearer feel more grounded and connected in their everyday life. Laura is excited to get trained in Generator’s jewelry studio so she can explore new designs and product ideas.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8254″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Jeff Dardozzi

Jeff is prototyping a remote monitoring system using NDT, IOT and predictive analysis systems that provide fleet manager with real time data regarding the the conditions of their industrial equipment. His goal in JumpStart is to continue prototyping while exploring existing markets for his invention and how to tap into them.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8255″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Ethan Miller

Ethan recently graduated from UVM and he’s excited to kick-off his entry into the “real world” by exploring the potential of his unique, handcrafted Bluetooth speakers to be a fully-fledged business. His speakers are designed for people who strongly identify with the music they listen to and want to display that passion in their home. Ethan is using JumpStart to continue protoyping his designs — he’s currently getting trained in the woodshop — while considering the branding, sales systems, and other facets of building a business.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8282″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Jackie Bishop, Jackie Bishop Art

Jackie is a current Generator member known for her kiln-fired pendant lampshades etched with original illustrations and patterns. She’s excited to continue experimenting on the laser cutter while getting trained in the metal shop and on the 3D printers so she can dream up new products to add to her line.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8281″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Eric Grunfeld, Plugged In

“Plugged In’s product combines a mobile app and a smart car phone holder that allows parents to monitor and restrict their child’s distracted driving behavior in real-time,” says a recent UVM blog about Eric and his business mentor. Grunfeld came up with the product idea as a Community Entrepreneurship major where he aspires to apply his creativity to solve social problems and make cultural change. During JumpStart he plans to continue working on his prototype and plan for Plugged In’s entry into the market.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

Photo coming soon

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]William Biederman & Paul Kennedy

William and Paul are manufacturing, selling, distributing, and leasing pumps that make determinations pertaining to the types of liquids being pumped on remote sites that cannot be personally monitored. Does that sound like a complex system? It certainly is. William and Paul are spending their time in JumpStart iterating on their prototype and considering what markets to enter.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” text=”CHECK OUT THE LECTURES” url=”https://generatorvt.com/jumpstart-2020-is-here/”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” text=”LEARN MORE ABOUT JUMPSTART” url=”https://generatorvt.com/jumpstart-overview/”][divider line_type=”Small Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]

JumpStart is made possible with support from our friends at

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January 22, 2020
A letter from Meg.

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Hello Generator enthusiasts,

It is a great honor to start the new year serving as Generator’s new Executive Director. I am grateful for the warm welcome into this community of makers! I am especially thankful to be joining such a fantastic team who has been working hard throughout this transition to serve our members, partners, and guests.

I spent the past eight years at Goddard College as Director of Development and the Haybarn Theatre Event Producer. Prior to this, I cultivated my event and business management skills as a founding member of the collectively owned Langdon Street Cafe–an arts and music venue in Montpelier.

In 2015, my life partner Ben t. Matchstick became a member at Generator where he launched his business, PinBox 3000. Through this experience, I learned first-hand about the profound impact Generator has in support of artists, inventors, and entrepreneurs. I look forward to many more collaborative efforts supporting creatives while advancing Vermont’s economic development.

While our mission drives the direction of my work, the community we serve brings my efforts alive. I am committed to helping our members, partners, and the community-at-large enjoy hands-on, experiential learning, prototype products, tinker, collaborate, and dream of solutions to local national, and global concerns.

My door is open, please stop by to say hello. I look forward to envisioning the future of Generator with you.

Sincerely,

Meg Hammond

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://generatorvt.com/welcome-generators-new-executive-director/” text=”READ 10/11/19 PRESS RELEASE”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

January 21, 2020
Pitch It, Fab It, Win It

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Submission deadline: TBD

Pitch It Fab It competition: April 14th, 2020, 6pm – 8pm (free pizza + refreshments!)

Do you have a product in early stage development that could benefit from a solid engineering push?

Are you in need of a prototype that your customers can touch, feel and experience?

With a single pitch, you can walk away with up to $5,000 in-kind services, materials, and expert mentoring to work with UVM Instrumentation and Model Facility (IMF).[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”8199″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]The winner of 2020’s Pitch It Fab It will receive:

– Precision machine and mechanical design consultation
– High-resolution 3D printing using hard and flexible materials
– Support for sourcing the parts and materials needed to build their prototype

Past winners have included laboratory devices, kitchen products, specialty bartending apparatus, educational holography, farm equipment, robots for kids and more.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”8200″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Want to enter? Get the pitch deck template and submit it here: https://generatorvt.com/pitch-it-fab-it/

Want to attend? It’s free to watch and and pizza and drinks served! RSVP here.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8201″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

January 20, 2020
JumpStart 2020 is here.

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We’re thrilled to kick off 2020 with another iteration of JumpStart.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/6″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8161″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”5/6″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]We have a new cohort of 10 up-and-coming maker-entrepreneurs in our bootcamp (meet them here) who will receive business coaching, prototyping support, free Generator membership, and free training and classes over the next three months.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/6″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/6″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8161″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”4/6″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]And we have a killer line-up of local business leaders sharing their stories about building, launching, and growing their product-based businesses here in Vermont.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

JumpStart talks are free! And we provide pizza and drinks.

If you’re a dreaming, scheming, literally-and-figuratively-hungry entrepreneur, these events are for you:

[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”2″ divider_color=”default” animate=”yes”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Tuesday, Janaury 28th

5:30pm – 7pm

Learn how one of Vermont’s most successful entrepreneurs built MicroStrain without taking outside capital.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/87811236773″ text=”RSVP” margin_top=”20″ margin_right=”20″ margin_bottom=”20″ margin_left=”20″][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8146″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Tuesday, February 4th

5:30pm – 7pm

At this talk, Byron will discuss the tools and tactics he uses to keep EZ-Probate running smoothly while he builds products and adds customers and staff.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jumpstart-how-to-manage-the-modern-startup-tickets-88012031355″ text=”RSVP” margin_top=”20″ margin_right=”20″ margin_bottom=”20″ margin_left=”20″][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8142″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Tuesday, February 18th

5:30pm – 7pm

Learn how Kyle and his team at Beta Technologies have developed world changing electric aviation products and what it takes to foster true innovation.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jumpstart-how-to-build-test-and-break-new-products-tickets-88012209889″ text=”RSVP” margin_top=”20″][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8143″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Tuesday, March 10th

5:30pm – 7pm

Learn how Anna and Leyla have manufactured locally and distributed nationally for Lunaroma, Way Out Wax, and their newest joint venture, Atmosphoria.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jumpstart-how-to-manufacture-and-distribute-in-vermont-tickets-88012378393″ text=”RSVP” margin_top=”20″][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8145″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Tuesday, March 24th

5:30pm – 7pm

At this talk, Sarah will discuss how she took Bee’s Wrap from her kitchen to a manufacturing facility with almost 45 employees![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jumpstart-how-to-scale-a-hand-crafted-product-business-tickets-88012570969″ text=”RSVP” margin_top=”20″][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”2/3″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”8144″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”2″ divider_color=”default” animate=”yes”][vc_column_text]

JumpStart is co-organized with our amazing partner, LaunchVT.

JumpStart is made possible by support from our sponsors:

[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://generatorvt.com/jumpstart-overview/” text=”LEARN MORE ABOUT JUMPSTART” margin_top=”20″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

January 15, 2020
Artist in Residence: Estefania Puerta

[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Estefania Puerta is an artist who insists on traversing different mediums to make works that go beyond conventions of any one genre. Identifying as an immigrant Latina woman, Puerta is deeply connected to displacement and a “sense of body” that doesn’t quite fit anywhere.

At Generator, Este worked on several pieces that will go into Sore Mouth Swore, an immersive installation that will spill from the lower level gallery of BCA and travel through the art center’s stairwell. Sore Mouth Swore utilizes poetic alliteration to reveal the challenging act of pronouncing these words in succession while addressing the persistent failures and uncertainty of language.

Evolving from spoken to visual expressions of this theme, Puerta examines the ambiguity within meaning—playing with notions of materials, media, and transformation.

The exhibition is a collaboration between Burlington City Arts and Generator. Puerta is participating in Generator’s Maker in Residence to support the creation of work for her 2020 BCA exhibition, with related performance and programming at both institutions.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

Due to Covid-19, we had to cancel Estefania’s planned artist performance in our Flex Space.

In lieu of the performance, BCA facilitated a virtual artist talk which you can watch below.

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January 12, 2020
Welcome our new Executive Director!

Burlington, Vt: Generator announced Meg Hammond has been named executive director of the nonprofit makerspace devoted to providing tools, expertise, education, and opportunities enabling members of its community to create, collaborate, and to make their ideas reality.

Hammond has been a college development director and leader in community arts and education in Vermont for the last 15 years. She was co-founder and CEO of the Langdon Street Café, the collectively run art and music venue in Montpelier that that Seven Days named “the crown jewel of the Montpelier arts community.” She succeeds Chris Thompson, who held the post starting in 2016 and transformed Generator from a two-year-old boot-strapping non-profit to an institutional leader in the entrepreneurship, STEM education, and arts communities. Thompson is returning to his original post on Generator’s board of directors.

“The Generator board of directors and I are very pleased that Meg Hammond will be joining us as our next Executive Director,” said Generator’s board president, Dan Harvey, “Meg’s background and experience are a great fit for us as we enter our sixth year of providing a unique space for our members and students.”

Hammond’s hiring comes as Generator plans for strategic growth in membership, educational opportunities, development, and community outreach, building on the successes of a groundbreaking period that included winning the Mayor’s Prize for Entrepreneurship, launching new programming including AMP (the Advanced Manufacturing Program) for high school students, and witnessing the successes of Generator members, including those involved with industry-leading companies Beta Technologies and OVR Technology, and several artists winning local and national accolades.

“It is a great honor to join the Generator team and extended community of makers, artists, and entrepreneurs,” said Hammond, “I have watched Generator grow extensively over the last five years and I look forward to building on its current successes while collaboratively imaging the next strategic steps to continue empowering the Burlington community to design, innovate, and actualize solutions for tomorrow.”

Hammond comes to Generator from Goddard College where she was Director of Development. At Goddard she led a successful campaign for a multi-phase renovation of the historic Haybarn Theatre in 2014 and produced the Haybarn Theatre Concert Series featuring world-class performers including Suzanne Vega and Jonathan Richman. Hammond was costume designer and stage manager for the original Vermont productions of Hadestown which went on to win 8 Tony awards in 2019. Hammond is working towards her Masters of Arts in Psychology from Goddard College and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts from Bloomsburg University. She is a sculptor, painter, and self-described “maker, board-gamer, escape room enthusiast, and ‘trashion’ designer.” Hammond is based in Montpelier.

For Immediate Release: December 11th, 2019

Press Contact: Christine Hill, Communications Director, (802) 540-0761

December 11, 2019
The second annual Holiday Humbug is here!
[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”7946″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][vc_column_text]Join us for our second annual holiday market and party in the Upside Down!

Free entry, refreshments, and live music from The Slow Cookers.

Shop local handmade goods from:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/4″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]
- Tender Warrior Co.
- zobirdpottery
- PixieTwine
- Nikki Laxar Art
- Fenn
- Fine Forager Arts by Kara Torres
- Sarah Camille Wilson
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- Wit & Woven
- The Root Studio
- Jackie Bishop
- Silverhill Creative Millinery
- Jean Cherouny Artifacts Studio
- Plus or Minus Studio
- Seamus Hannan Woodworks
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- Mats Thureson Metalworking
- Whalefall Light and Sculpture – Kristian Brevik
- Jill Dawson Bling the Book
- Jake Blend Amusements
- Linda Beal
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- Pots by Julia
- Alex Constantino
- Jeffrey Lue
- Wolf and Wood Thrush
- Basin Reclaimed
- Hooligan Soundz
- Mean Folk
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-humbug-tickets-80764947131″ text=”RSVP”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Stay tuned to our Facebook and Instagram to see the makers and items you can find at this year’s Humbug![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]

Made possible with support from our friends at

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November 12, 2019
Artist in Residence: Adriane Colburn

Adriane Colburn

Adriane Colburn is an artist based in San Francisco and New Jersey.

Her recent work, large scale installations that investigate the complex relationships between human infrastructure, earth systems, technology and the natural world.

A penchant for research and direct experience has led her to participate in scientific expeditions in the Arctic, the Amazon and at sea.

Adriane used her time at Generator to create interconnected and steam bent wooden sculptures for a group exhibition at the University of Buffalo.

November 6, 2019
Rachel Lindsay: Artist at Entrepreneur

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We’re kicking off the JumpStart Business of Art lecture series with Rachel Lindsay!

Join us as Rachel gives an overview of her career and experiences working as a cartoonist based in the Burlington area. She’ll share the creative highlights of her path — Rachel Lives Here Now, “The Wizard of Life,” greeting cards, RX: A Graphic Memoir — and explain how the business principles she learned in her former career in branding acted as an essential foundation for success with her creative work.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ centered_text=”true” width=”1/1″][divider line_type=”No Line”][nectar_btn size=”jumbo” open_new_tab=”true” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rachel-lindsay-artist-at-entrepreneur-tickets-75159286449″ text=”RSVP”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]ABOUT RACHEL LINDSAY:

Rachel Lindsay is a Burlington, Vermont-based cartoonist. Her graphic novel, RX: A Graphic Memoir, was released in 2018 and has received acclaim from Kirkus Reviews, Publisher’s Weekly, and New York Magazine, among others. A powerful new voice in the mental health realm of the Graphic Medicine community, Lindsay has spoken about RX at Columbia University, Harvard Medical School, The Miami Book Fair, Mount Sinai Hospital’s Icahn School of Medicine. She is also the creator of the comic strip Rachel Lives Here Now (2013-2019).

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ABOUT JUMPSTART BUSINESS OF ART

JumpStart Business of Art is a 9-week intensive for artists who are ready to turn their practices into a sustainable business. Eight selected artists receive free access to Generator’s tools, resources, and shared workspace, group coaching from established artist-entrepreneurs and industry professionals, free expert mentoring and technical assistance, and an artist-entrepreneur stipend.

JumpStart Business of Art lectures are open to the public!

JumpStart Business of Art is a collaboration between Generator, LaunchVT, and Center for Women & Enterprise.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

October 8, 2019
We’re Hiring: could you be our next Executive Director?
Want to empower the next generation of makers, artists, and entrepreneurs through building relationships and leading our team?

We’re hiring for our Executive Director!

See below for the full description of the position.

To apply, please e-mail your cover letter and resume here.

JOB TITLE: Executive Director

REPORTS TO: Board of Directors

STATUS: Full Time, Benefits Eligible (salary range: $70,000 – $75,000)

WHAT IS GENERATOR? Generator is a combination of business incubator, artist studio and classroom at the intersection of art, science, and technology. We provide the tools, expertise, education, and opportunity to enable all members of our community to create, collaborate, and bring ideas to fruition. Generator has over 400 maker-members and our programs engage over 2000 individuals per year in Burlington, Chittenden County and beyond.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN AN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR? The Executive Director has strategic and operational responsibility for Generator’s staff, programs, budget and execution of its mission. Our ideal candidate believes in empowerment through collaborative, hands-on, experiential learning and has the ability to lead a team so our community can bring their visions to life.

WHAT ARE THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THIS POSITION?
- Work with board members to develop, evolve and operationalize Generator’s mission and vision.
- Develop an annual budget in collaboration with the board finance committee, effectively manage the budget and provide board members with monthly budget status reports.
- Lead, engage, coach, develop, and retain Generator’s high performing staff.
- Work with staff to develop and expand earned income revenue streams including membership, studio rentals, class and events to maintain self-sustaining operations.
- Work with staff to develop and execute marketing strategies to raise brand awareness and support earned revenue strategies and community outreach programming.
- Work with staff and the board development committee to develop and secure fundraising to achieve a balanced budget via donor solicitations, grant writing, and corporate sponsorships.
- Work with staff to develop and execute educational strategy including tool certifications, skill building class, workshops and children’s camps.
- Work with staff and non-profit partner organizations to develop community outreach programming, including entrepreneurship and STEM education, workforce development and art/technology events.
- Develop member and volunteer celebrations and events, maker in residence, and art exhibits.
- Represent Generator in local and statewide entrepreneurship, maker, STEAM education projects and organizations.
- Other duties as may be required or requested.
WHAT ARE THE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES THAT WOULD HELP SOMEONE SUCCEED IN THIS ROLE?
- 5 plus years’ experience as executive director of a small community focused non-profit or equivalent combination of skills and experience.
- Leadership skills with the ability to coach, manage, develop, align and inspire high-performance teams.
- Operational and management skills with the ability to manage budgets, manage projects and achieve fundraising and programmatic goals.
- Strategic thinking skills with the ability to turn a vision into a reality.
- Passion for the integration of art, science, technology, entrepreneurship, and the creative process.
- Persuasive and passionate communicator with demonstrated collaboration skills.
- Leading by example and fostering an inclusive environment that thrives by bringing together diverse perspectives.
- These skills are normally acquired with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
We are committed to building a work community that is inclusive and represents a vibrant diversity of background, experience, perspective and thought. Candidates across all markers of identify (age, race, gender, ability, communication styles, etc.) are highly encouraged to apply.

To apply, please e-mail your cover letter and resume here.
September 16, 2019