The power of intergenerational co-mentoring
Next cohort starts
July 13
Cohort length
6 Months
application deadline
May 1
To ensure that innovation is for everyone, Ageless Innovators, launched in 2018, run by Chicago Innovation in partnership with The Village Chicago, provides a co-mentoring experience designed to spark connections, expand perspectives, and fuel new ways of thinking. Join a dynamic community of innovators across ages and industries to build meaningful relationships and learn from one another.
By the numbers
Program Impact
Intergenerational innovators participated to date
%
Reported being closer to their goals than when the 6 months started
Top areas of impact in 2025
Where Participants Felt in Most
Business & Career Growth
- Secured new business and expanded client pipelines
- Navigated career transitions at any age and stage
Personal Brand & Visibility
- Refined brand positioning and messaging
- Clarified unique value and professional presence
Skills of the Future
- Built core skills that support innovation
- Increasing technical and leadership skills to stay competitive
Lasting Relationships
- 90% of participants expanded their professional networks
- Built co-mentor relationships that extend well beyond the cohort
Participant experience
What to Expect
1:1 co-mentorship rooted in shared learning and experience
Workshops and events that drive innovative thinking and network growth
Curated opportunities and larger community events throughout the cohort
Connections and resources across the broader innovation ecosystem
Participant insights
Hear it From Them
Honorable Addition
Introducing Intergenerational Teams In Action Program
Launched in 2025 in partnership with The Village Chicago and RRF Foundation for Aging, the Intergenerational Teams in Action Program highlights the power of cross-generational collaboration, demonstrating how organizations can leverage diverse perspectives and experience as a strategic asset to strengthen innovation, teamwork, and long-term success.
FAQ
How many cohorts are offered each year?
We run two cohorts per year: a Spring cohort (January–June) and a Fall cohort (July–December).
Who is encouraged to apply?
Everyone who considers themselves an innovator! We are looking for business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and anyone who is looking to grow.
What is the selection process?
Applicants will be selected if they can be paired with another applicant based on their goals and expectations of the program. We intentionally pair co-mentors together to ensure that each participant will be able to achieve their goals. Unfortunately, we traditionally receive more applicants than spots available in the program. If you are not selected for one cohort, we encourage you to apply again.
What are the benefits of joining?
Co-mentors receive:
– Access to a co-mentor who can help them achieve their goals while also getting the benefits of supporting another person to accomplish their goals.
– Access to a supportive network of over 500 innovators who have participated in the program
– Invitations to cohort-only events with industry leaders and thought leaders
– Complimentary invitation to Chicago Innovation events during your 6-month program
– The Village Chicago membership ( values at $540)
What is the program structure of Ageless Innovators?
Each Ageless Innovator cohort is six-months long. Co-mentors can attend orientations to receive training on how to be an excellent mentoring partner. During the six-month cohorts, co-mentors meet one-on-one to help the mentees reach their goals. Throughout the cohort, we host intimate gatherings to allow participants to get to know other innovators in the program.
What is the time commitment if accepted?
Co-mentors can plan to spend a total of 8-10 hours over the course of the cohort with their match. Co-mentors will also be invited to 4-5 program specific events and workshops geared toward connection making and skill development. You will also be invited to monthly Chicago Innovation events while in the program.
What is co-mentoring?
Co-mentoring is a mentoring relationship where both participants take on the role of mentor/mentee. We believe that everyone has something to teach and something to learn. Co-mentoring allows wisdom to transfer between both participants.
What are the participation requirements?
Co-mentors are asked to enter the program with a clear goal and objectives regarding why they wish to participate. We ask you to respect your co-mentors time and respond promptly to emails and communicate well about meetings.
Tips to help increase my chances of being accepted?
Fill out the application as fully as possible. The more information you provide, the easier it will be to match you with a co-mentor.
Are scholarships available?
We offer a limited number of need-based scholarships for applicants who may not otherwise be able to afford the enrollment fee. Additional details about these scholarships, along with a section to indicate need or interest, can be found at the end of the application.
I am interested in sponsoring Ageless Innovators. Who do I contact?
Please contact Laura LeClair at lauraj@chicagoinnovation.com if you wish to join us in connecting innovators in Chicago.
IN THE NEWS
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
PROGRAM SPONSORS
