Summary:
Pat East resigns as executive director of The Mill, a key startup incubator in Bloomington.
John Fernandez appointed as interim executive director, bringing extensive economic development experience.
The Mill secured multi-million-dollar grants and launched significant programs during East's tenure.
Search for a new executive director to begin soon, with contact information provided for interested candidates.
The Forge, a new tech incubator, opens to further support local entrepreneurship.
Leadership Change at The Mill
Pat East, the visionary behind Bloomington's startup incubator and co-working space, The Mill, has stepped down as executive director. This news was announced by The Mill's board of directors on Friday.
New Interim Executive Director
In the wake of East's resignation, John Fernandez, who holds the position of senior vice president of innovation and strategic partnerships, has been appointed as the interim executive director. Board chair Ravi Bhatt expressed gratitude for East’s contributions, stating, "Pat East’s vision and dedication have laid a remarkable foundation, helping to shape Bloomington into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship."
Achievements Under Pat East
During his tenure, East led The Mill to secure several multi-million-dollar grants and initiated numerous impactful programs such as Flywheel Fund, Bloomington Remote, Crossroads, and Innovation Week. Bhatt also conveyed enthusiasm about Fernandez's leadership during this transition, highlighting his extensive experience in economic development.
Future Steps
Details regarding the search for a permanent executive director will be shared soon. Interested candidates or individuals can reach out to Bhatt at ravi@folia.com.
About Pat East
Pat East joined The Mill after selling his successful business, Hanapin Marketing, to Brainlabs. With a focus on building a supportive infrastructure for startups, he has been a driving force in the community. East previously outlined his goals for The Mill, which included expanding its reach and hiring new talent.
In November 2024, The Forge, a new tech incubator, opened in Bloomington, further enhancing opportunities for local businesses and innovators to thrive.
Key Highlights
Under Pat East's leadership, The Mill has transformed into a vital resource for entrepreneurs in Bloomington, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation in the region.
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