Lisa Toenniges graduated from Michigan State University with a major in music and graduated in 3 1/2 years. Prior to opening Innovative Learning, Lisa worked with a company of the same business concept that failed in the start-up phase. After the company closed for business. Lisa had three days to determine what to do with the former business, so she took action. Lisa thought of a business plan and a unique selling proposition to make the company more profitable and sustainable. Innovative learning targets large companies who need training for their executives. She focuses on a wide range of customers ranging from Automotive to Graphic Designs. Lisa does 60-70% of work out of southeast michigan. They also focus on local businesses such as Lasalle Bank and other local enterprises.

I respect Innovative learning for their leverage of employees. They only have 6 employees and have independant contractors come in to do work where the employees can not. Innovative learning has a long list of contractors who specialize in specific areas that Innovative teaches. The first thing the company performs is an analysis on the company which generally takes a month to complete. One of the advantages of this company is that they already had clients from the former business which made it easier to complete analysis on the companies and to do repeat business. One of the advantages of this company is that they work on relationships and word of mouth, which limits their cost of advertisments and PR. Using this technique the company is now a 3 million dollar company.

Overall, the Innovative Learning Group is a well-rounded, highly focused, structured business. An approach of strategic planning and extreme efficiency has made the Innovative Learning Group an idea company for entrepreneurs with start-up businesses, such as myself, to model after. This was a great opportunity to be able to hear Mrs. Toenniges speak, and I am extremely greatful.