Our Why

the mission

Innovators for Purpose (iFp) is a BIPOC-led non-profit design and innovation studio in Cambridge, MA. We’re on a mission to empower a new generation of diverse, socially conscious innovators. By uniquely blending design + STEM with a focus on social impact, we unlock the potential in young people, especially those from historically marginalized groups. Our young people don’t just emerge as leaders, they become “Innovators for Purpose,” equipped to drive transformative change that shapes both their futures and the communities around them.

Youth empowerment is why we exist, but our work doesn’t stop there. Simultaneously, we are committed to raising awareness within the innovation community about the untapped wealth of talent and potential within their midst. By investing in and nurturing our young talents, the innovation community can cultivate the desired inclusive talent pool they seek. 

It’s often said that youth are the future at Innovators for Purpose (iFp) we believe they are the now as well.

iFp Programs

While STEM continues to garner significant attention, actual participation in these fields remains stagnant and narrow. At iFp, we're reimagining STEM education to focus not just on global competitiveness, but on empowering students to use these skills for societal betterment. Our approach resonates with today’s youth, eager to address pressing issues like equity and social justice. By reimagining STEM education, we are not just expanding student interest, but actively creating inclusive and transformative pathways for diverse young talents.

iFp Labs | grades 7-8: Serves as the gateway into iFp programming. Students are introduced to our methodologies using an unconventional approach integrating emerging technologies such as AI and robotics with empathy, equity, and social justice.

iFp Studios | grades 9-12: Our flagship program brings together aspiring creatives, technologists, and change-makers with experienced professionals for real-world, student-initiated, and client-sponsored projects. This highly experiential work-based learning environment requires constant new skills development, from coding to emerging technologies and innovative research methods. Organized as a paid internship, iFp Studios expects participants to maintain professional workplace standards, including responsibility, punctuality, and accountability.

iFp Next | Alumni: Recognizing the enduring value we provide to our alumni, iFp Next focuses on mentorship and fostering social capital, assisting iFp graduates in obtaining internships and job opportunities. Additionally, we provide paid hands-on work experiences in iFp Studios, both during the academic year and summer, to ensure ongoing skill development for our graduates.

Our Leaders

Michael Dawson, Co-founder and CEO,  career has spanned engineering, marketing and sales in High Tech as well as entrepreneurial endeavors resulting in a hybrid of technical skills, business acumen, design savviness, relationship building abilities and an undeniable entrepreneurial spirit. Holds Bachelor & Master in Electrical Engineering Degrees from the University of South Florida and an MBA from Babson College.

Donna Dawson, Co-founder, VP Youth Empowerment, visionary thinker with a zeal for art and the art making process.  Inventive art educator with a proven capacity for promoting a respectful, caring, safe and inclusive classroom. Creates engaging learning experiences focused on Human Centered Design Principles, Character Development and Professional Identity that inspires youth to pursue Design and STEM careers. Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education with over 20 years teaching experience and a certified K-12 instructor.

Our Board