Experts Powering The LaunchPad Competition
"This has been the most valuable feedback anyone has given me on my concept.
I'm entering my idea into the competition today." – Launchpad Applicant
What makes the Launchpad Innovation Competition different are the people powering it. Real experts who've spent decades developing new products and and turning ideas into commercial reality for some of the top companies in the world:
- The Footwear Innovation Foundation
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit scientific research organization established by dozens of leading footwear executives to serve as the pivotal hub for ideation and knowledge exchange, shaping the future of footwear. The mission of FIF is to champion inventive solutions for pervasive industry-wide challenges. The FIF empowers innovators, entrepreneurs, and academics by providing the guidance and resources they need to succeed.
- Liminal Group who train talent to be business leaders and build up their ideas to be commercial ready
- Venture studio and innovation development hub dedicated to developing aspiring entrepreneurs & early-stage ventures for investment readiness & lasting market success through specialized development services, resources, and educational programming. Liminal Group bridges the gap between great ideas and investable businesses.
- Footwear leaders who know the industry inside and out and can deploy new ideas
- The competition is financially supported by footwear companies. Those who help fund this competition are afforded the first opportunity to engage and work with applicants up to a designated point in time where it then opens to the industry at large. Sponsors do not dictate winners or work but support us financially so we can build ideas and concepts we know they need.
- Experts on material science, manufacturing, technology, and all facets of footwear to ensure success
- A range of footwear experts and professionals to plug in, depending on the issue or area, to provide guidance and ensure success.
We built this competition to ensure every idea gets seen. Serious talent and ideas get feedback and potential mentorship. Regardless if you make the Elite 8 or not, we have built the FIF LaunchPad so that everyone who enters with a well thought out idea receives notes on their idea from our core team. For some, you will also gain access to top industry leaders.
CORE TEAM
Michael Seeley, Founder, Liminal Group
As an awarded, published, and globally distinguished Design, Innovation, and Branding leader, Michael has spent 20 years transforming multiple consumer product industries and has helped companies like IKEA, Walmart, Whirlpool, Panasonic, Qualcomm, P&G, KitchenAid, and many more. He works with entrepreneurs daily to help them build their business skills and refine their products to be market ready.
Alan Lugo, Founder, alanandres
Alan spent over a decade at Wolverine Worldwide, and more recently at Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), where he held key roles in footwear product creation and innovation as well as helping advance next-generation sustainable materials for footwear. Alan is known for bridging design, development, and responsible manufacturing. He has taught footwear design at the university level, having mentored many students into successful careers. He is also an expert in residence at Liminal Group.
Andy Gilbert, Former President, Genesco Brands Group
Andy has worked in footwear for over 40 years, from NIKE to formerly leading a portfolio of globally recognized brands for a large shoe company. He has deep experience in brand development, retail strategy, and licensing. Andy is known across the industry for his collaborative leadership and strong relationships spanning major retailers, manufacturers, and brand partners. He is also Chairman of the Footwear Innovation Foundation.
Andy Polk, Executive Director, Footwear Innovation Foundation
Andy serves as Senior Vice President at FDRA, the footwear industry's business and trade organization representing 97% of all shoe companies. He helps provide intelligence to shoe companies of all sizes, in all categories, at all levels from CEOs to those new to footwear. Andy is known for his strategic insight and ability to pull companies together on projects. He is also a co-founder of a technology company.
With Participation and Support by industry leaders at
further backed by fif's board and advisory council
