Unleashing the Power of Human Intelligence Retreat

COI Ladder Institute is thrilled to present its 13th annual Unleashing Retreat for founders, funders, and ecosystem builders who are prepared to drive their businesses forward by fostering impactful connections within a supportive community.This year’s Unleashing the Power of Human Intelligence Retreat is centered on cultivating meaningful relationships to drive personal and business success during turbulent times. This retreat is creating a space that enables participants to develop deep, lasting connections.This gathering offers actionable strategies from the most influential founders, investors, accelerators, and strategic partners to advance and transform businesses through the power of connections.Central to all activities hosted at the retreat is Founder Therapy. The founder's physical, mental, and spiritual health are thoughtfully woven into the agenda. Founders will leave the retreat equipped with strategies and tools to solve BIG problems that are sustained by profound connections, checks and contracts (The 3 C's). Join us!

Day 1: Mon | Aug 3

Investing inYourself

Day 2: Tue | Aug 4

Investing inYour Future

Day 3: Wed | Aug 5

Investing inYour Wellness

• 2025

• 2024

• 2023

• 2022

• 2021

• 2020

• 2019

• 2018

COI Ladder Institute: Empowering Communities, Elevating Futures

Founded in 1995, COI Ladder Institute began with a simple yet powerful vision: to build assets and create lasting change in the communities we serve. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we have always been driven by the belief that empowering individuals and communities through education, mentorship, and opportunity is the key to transforming lives and fostering sustainable growth.Over the years, our mission has evolved, but our commitment to driving positive impact remains unwavering. In 2013, we expanded our reach with the Unleashing Your Power Retreat, a transformative initiative designed to serve the often overlooked and underestimated founders and funders within the startup ecosystem. This program, along with our other offerings, aims to provide the essential resources, networks, and opportunities needed to break down barriers and elevate individuals to new heights of success.At COI Ladder Institute, we understand that true empowerment goes beyond basic education—it’s about unlocking potential and providing the tools necessary for sustainable success. Our flagship programs, including STRIVE Youth, kW for Good, SEE Index, and a range of ad hoc initiatives, are tailored to address the unique needs of both individuals and businesses. Each program is designed not only to foster personal and professional growth but to uplift entire communities, creating a ripple effect of opportunity and prosperity.Our Unleashing Your Power Retreat is particularly close to our hearts. By focusing on founders and funders, we aim to bridge the gap in a startup ecosystem. Through access to specialized educational resources, mentorship from industry leaders, and strategic networking opportunities, we create an environment where participants can elevate their businesses, unlock new opportunities, and transform their lives.Beyond our programs, COI Ladder Institute is deeply committed to philanthropy, energy efficiency, and sustainability. We believe that true change is achieved not only through direct action but by fostering an ecosystem of shared knowledge, compassion, and responsible stewardship of resources. Our vision is one of equity—where every individual, regardless of background, has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain dedicated to our core mission: empowering communities to rise, supporting individuals to break through limitations, and creating lasting change that extends far beyond today. We are driven by the belief that the power of connection, mentorship, and opportunity can catalyze exponential growth, both for individuals and the communities they touch.At COI Ladder Institute, we don’t just build assets—we build futures.

SaLisa L. Berrien
Founder, COI Ladder Institute

SaLisa L. Berrien, Founder and Board Chair, has over 25 years of experience in non-profit leadership and clean energy space. From volunteering at charities, mentoring, working at utilities and clean tech companies, to establishing an endowment and scholarships, she has been committed to making the space she occupies better than she found it. SaLisa holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and an Executive MBA from Saint Joseph’s University.One of SaLisa’s core values is philanthropy. She believes that to whom much is given, much is required. Her mission in life is to positively impact the space she occupies by building assets. COI Ladder Institute does this with its afterschool STEM leadership development program and female founders programming for tech startups.

Check out the opportunities to elevate founders and funders to the next level. The Sponsorship Packages help ensure the quality programming our stakeholders have come to enjoy continues. Make an impact today by pledging your level of support. Sponsorship is tax deductible.

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