Almost my entire life, ideas have been bubbling up in my mind—ideas for new products, businesses, and ways to solve some of the biggest challenges facing communities, countries, and even the world. One of my earliest memories of having an “idea” dates back to when I was three. I was absolutely convinced that if I jumped up and down in my closet long enough, I could break through the floor and create an elevator that would take me down to the family room. Spoiler alert: it never happened. But it was far from the last idea I ever tried to bring to life.
Some of my ideas did take flight—a computer fair I organized at the University of Michigan in the 1980s that ran for a decade and raised thousands of dollars each year for nonprofits, or a utility that converted PDFs to Microsoft Word in the 1990s, which eventually grew into a nine-figure business. These successes were incredible milestones, but they represent just a few chapters in a much larger story.
For every idea that blossomed or flamed out, there have been dozens that eventually made it to market… just not by me. For years, I saw these moments as missed opportunities, as personal failures. But not anymore.
Given my age, skills, and the realities of time, it’s just impossible for me—or anyone—to chase every great idea that crosses their mind. For months, I’ve been reflecting on how I could share these ideas with others who might develop them further, improve on the thinking, and ultimately bring them to life.
As I worked on turning “Art’s Ideas” into a public list, I realized I’m far from alone. So many people out there have visions and ideas but aren’t in a position to act on them yet—or perhaps they just need support and collaboration to get started. Friends of mine have a sharper knack for spotting opportunities and solving problems than I ever did. Beyond my own circle, I believe there are countless others eager to contribute their ideas and help refine the ideas of others.
So, “Art’s Ideas” will remain the name of my personal blog, but our new community is something much bigger. OpenIdeas.Group is designed to democratize innovation—to open the door for anyone and everyone to share, discuss, and build upon ideas.
Who says the best ideas only come from people in their 20s, 30s, or 40s? What about the creativity and wisdom of those in their 60s, 70s, or 80s? And what about the fresh perspectives of youth—those who haven’t yet been worn down by the pragmatism that life often demands?
Who says you need a fancy degree to engineer a product or solve major issues like housing, environmental crises, or healthcare challenges? Who says invention and innovation are only for think tanks or established companies?
I have immense respect for the innovators and organizations already pushing the boundaries and creating solutions. But my dream is to bring a massive influx of ideas and people into this conversation—a groundswell of creativity from all walks of life.
After tossing around many names for this community, it struck me how open source software revolutionized the tech world. Initially dismissed, open source development is now behind countless products, companies, and customers worldwide.
Could OpenIdeas.group spark a similar transformation? Could we create new value that surpasses a trillion dollars within the next decade? I don’t know yet. But one thing is clear: if we don’t start now, the answer will definitely be no.
So join me and my friends as we come together to connect people and ideas of every kind—starting right now. Visit OpenIdeas.io, share your ideas, comment on others, and help shape the future of innovation.
The journey starts here. Will you be part of it?
— Art, Founder of OpenIdeas.Group
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