KOKOMO, Ind. - Potential student entrepreneurs have resources and a support system available at Indiana University Kokomo with the launch of the new Entrepreneurship & Innovation Center (EIC) this fall.

The program kicks off Wednesday, October 7 with Plan. Build. Execute., a hands-on workshop introducing students to entrepreneurship and the new center. The event will be held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Kelley Student Center, Room 130 C.

James Geiger, program manager and lecturer in business, said students are encouraged to attend whether they have an idea, want to start something someday, or are simply curious about entrepreneurship.

"This will be our entrepreneurial hub at IU Kokomo, for students of any major," he said. "Entrepreneurship isn't just for business students."

After the kickoff, the center will start weekly Founders Groups, led by student community managers Kaylouna Maltese, a business finance major from Huntington; and Ruby Rupp, an elementary education major from Kokomo.

"Our community managers are go-getters who are active on campus, who have the entrepreneurial spirit," Geiger said. "They will lead the Founders Groups and offer the peer mentoring aspect of the program for students who are interested. Their goal is to help students go through the Learning and Launch journey, no matter where they are in that process."

In addition to Founders Groups, students at IU Kokomo will also have access to workshops, speaking events, community events, trips, and potentially a business plan pitch competition.

"We're looking to engage students in many different ways and make them excited about entrepreneurship," Geiger said.

Students who join the EIC will complete the IU Innovates Learning and Launch journey, which includes modules such as Explore, Build, Test, Customers, and Create Your Own Job.

Geiger said participating in EIC enhances what students are learning in their IU Kokomo classes.

"It's an opportunity to take what they've learned and apply it to something they are passionate about, and hopefully make a living from it," he said. "It enriches the student experience. It's similar to what our Office of Career Services offers in helping people find internships and jobs. It's along those lines, but we're helping them create their own jobs."

For more information about the EIC, contact Geiger at [email protected]. Students can RSVP for the October 7 Plan. Build. Execute. at cougarlife.kokomo.iu.edu/event/12751618.

Launched in Fall 2023, IU Innovates is a university-wide initiative to advance Indiana University entrepreneurs through startup incubation hubs, sponsorship of entrepreneurship resources, and impact storytelling.

Core to IU's strategic plan 2030 pillars of student success, transformative research and creativity, and service to the state and beyond, IU Innovates ensures entrepreneurs know where to start and continually access the right resource at the right time.

Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.

IU 2030: Service to Our State and Beyond

Improving the lives of the people and economic vitality of Indiana and beyond through timely education, research, innovation, economic development, community service and engagement.

See our full plan here.

Student Success and Opportunity

IU Kokomo will ensure the long-term success of all students through a quality education filled with enriching opportunities.

See our full plan here.