Backed by a $125,000 grant from the Avangrid Foundation, Northeastern University’s Roux Institute has launched the latest edition of a program that helps nonprofits take a more entrepreneurial approach to advancing their missions.
Ten nonprofits were selected for the 2026 Intrapreneurship for Nonprofits Program, joining a network of 26 alumni organizations.
The six-month program includes workshops on topics ranging from AI and customer discovery to business models and pricing, culminating in a Dec. 8 showcase at the Roux Institute in Portland.
Anna Ackerman, the institute’s entrepreneurship program manager, created and oversees the program that debuted in 2023.
The newest cohort is the program’s fourth but second to be funded by the Avangrid Foundation.
“The response from last year’s inaugural cohort and the community demonstrated just how much demand exists for innovation within Maine’s nonprofit sector,” said Chris Torina, director of entrepreneurship at the Roux Institute.
“By combining entrepreneurial thinking with mission-driven leadership, together we are helping nonprofit organizations develop new solutions, build capacity and create lasting impact in the communities they serve,” he added.
Pablo Colón, executive director of the Avangrid Foundation and Avangrid’s director of corporate citizenship, spoke at last week’s kickoff event, joined by Joanne Bean, president and CEO of Camp Sunshine and a 2025 program alumna.
“Nonprofit organizations are at the heart of thriving communities, and we’re proud to support leaders who are finding innovative ways to advance their missions and expand their impact,” Colón said.
The Avangrid Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Orange, Conn.-based Avangrid, the parent company of Central Maine Power Co.
