Bill Fienup

Bill Fienup, VP of innovation services and co-founder, is an entrepreneur focused on delivering new product innovation to clients seeking better solutions.

With experience ranging from researching fusion energy at Los Alamos National Laboratory to designing toys for Hasbro, Bill began his career as a product development consultant for IDEO and Insight Product Development. After 7 years of innovation consulting, Bill became an entrepreneur and launched several product-based businesses. After experiencing several challenges launching hardware startups, Bill founded Catalyze Chicago to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, mentorship, and manufacturing networks needed to successfully develop products and launch a new business.

Bill holds 12 patents — including 3d printing alignment, bandage dispenser, biopsy needle, and a NERF Atom Blaster™ with more pending. Bill’s reputation as a thought leader extends beyond Chicago. He was named to Crain’s Chicago Business 40 Under 40 in 2018 and featured in Newcity’s Design 50: Who Shapes Chicago 2019. In addition to being a repeat visitor to the White House for topics ranging from international trade to the maker movement, Bill has appeared on national television with his inventions.