Innovative Learning Group Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary

March 2014 marks Royal Oak-based Innovative Learning Group's 10th anniversary as a leading provider of custom training and performance support solutions to Fortune 1000 companies.

ILG began in the basement of CEO and owner Lisa Toenniges’ home over a weekend 10 years ago. With the support of her previous employer who was closing, Toenniges and five colleagues set out to start a company to serve the needs of their previous employer’s clients. By the end of the first few weeks, the company had a name, business plan, and six clients with projects in process.

Today, ILG has more than 90 clients across 30 industries, 13 employees, and a corporate headquarters based in Royal Oak. The company has achieved revenue growth and remained profitable since opening.

“My goal is to continue on our path of steady growth and profitably while maintaining the culture and client-focus that has made ILG successful,” says Toenniges. “We have wonderful clients and take building relationships and partnering with them very seriously. I thank them for their continued support and encouragement. It’s because of their confidence in our team and services that ILG has reached this milestone. I look forward to continuing the journey.”

ILG has received a number of awards for its learning solutions, including two Brandon Hall Awards of Excellence, an International Society for Performance Improvement Award of Excellence, and a Learning in Practice Award from Chief Learning Officer. The company also has received a variety of workplace and business awards, including being named a Michigan Bright Spot by Corp! and a Cool Place to Work by Crain’s Detroit. Additionally, Toenniges has been named a Top 10 Michigan Business Woman and Rainmaker of the Year by the National Association of Women Business Owners of Greater Detroit and an Entrepreneur of Distinction by Corp!.