The Loop Lab

The Loop Lab is a nonprofit social enterprise in Cambridge specializing in digital storytelling and workforce development. Its mission is to empower content creators of color to build careers in media arts through job training and paid internships. Today it focuses on young adults ages 16 to 26 facing systemic barriers, preparing them for careers in professional audiovisual technology and creative media production, with three target outcomes: education, employment or entrepreneurship.

The organization was founded in 2017 as a project to reduce youth violence and drug abuse in disadvantaged communities by expanding job opportunities. It has grown into a workforce intermediary that recruits, trains, credentials and places participants, then follows their progress for five years. Training includes a paid academy, an AV pathway with on-the-job hours on real equipment, early exposure programs in Greater Boston high schools, and lessons on using AI responsibly.

What to Know

• Employer partners help design the curriculum, host students and hire graduates.
• The Loop Lab model is being expanded nationally through curriculum licensing.
• A national network connects students, alumni and employers across cities.
• It is listed in the Sustainable Business Network of Massachusetts Local First directory.