Filene Research Institute

Through independent research and innovation, the Filene Research Institute explores issues vital to the future of credit unions and consumer finance.


Innovation

  1. Bootstrapping: An essential innovation competency

    Bootstrapping

    Sramana Mitra’s recent Forbes.com article laments the overemphasis of fundraising and underemphasis of “bootstrapping” in business school entrepreneurship classes. Students learn the ins and outs of attracting venture capital to their idea, Mitra argues, but precious little about how to actually get that idea off the ground from an operational perspective. As a result, the argument continues, students are left with unrealistic expectations and the promise of little more than failure.

    More ...

    categories » Innovation

  2. Design Inspired Innovation

    Black_cows_with_grandin_sized

    There’s nothing like a blizzard in New York City. Relax. I decided to watch an HBO movie. Did I relax? No. Instead I was inspired.

    I was moved by Temple Grandin and her journey with autism. I was inspired by Grandin’s story about how she invented humane livestock-handling equipment that is widely used today. Grandin says, “She thinks in pictures.” That’s what enables her to see what others can’t.

    More ...

    categories » Innovation, Research in Motion

  3. $100,000 Is a Lot of Money

    Billie2

    Last year, Billie Smith, an extremely nice 86-year-old lady from Michigan made a few $25 deposits. Today, she won $100,000.

    More ...

    categories » Filene News, Innovation