Valley Venture Mentors
Valley Venture Mentors is located in the heart of downtown Springfield Massachusetts at the Springfield Innovation Center. Founded in 2011, our vision is to support transformational development for high-growth and high-scalable startups that change the face of the economy in Western Massachusetts.
Our Mission.
To help entrepreneurs propel their ideas into successful and sustainable businesses through entrepreneurial education, curated mentorship, and networking opportunities. VVM serves as the regional entrepreneurial convener, hub, trainer, and network facilitator for entrepreneurs in Western Massachusetts. We provide unique and collaborative programs, curate meaningful connections within our region and act as a catalyst for community and economic growth through entrepreneurship-led economic development and ecosystem building.
Our Vision.
Build, grow, and strengthen economic growth in Western Massachusetts by building a network that supports our regional economy and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through our collaborative ecosystem-building work, we inspire and enhance collaboration among organizations, amplifying the work.
Our Commitment.
As a commitment to weaving diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do, VVM is dedicated to creating pathways for entrepreneurs to have equitable access to resources and opportunities to aide in the scaling and development of their companies. From our program design to our distribution of resources, we model this commitment in our signature programs and community partnerships. We are creating accessible entry points, supporting the development of social capital, diversifying access to financial capital, and responding to the evolving needs of the community.
Leadership.
In addition to leading Valley Venture Mentors, Hope Ross Gibaldi is also the co-founder and CEO of LEARN IN MOTION, a youth recreational program that offers movement-, sports- and play-based enrichment programs for preschoolers and elementary school students. As a business coach and consultant, Hope started her own practice - Entrepreneurial Spirit - where she works directly with entrepreneurs on their businesses as well as with organizations in order to develop and improve programs that support small business owners. She is passionate about the transformative impact that entrepreneurship and education can have for individuals, communities, and the economy. She is a passionate advocate for building a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that is accessible, responsive and meets the needs of the community.
