Discover the Innovator in YOU!

Featuring the brand-new Center for Entrepreneurship.

Author: Licci Zemleduch

“I'm broke!!!” is one of the most common phrases in a college student's vocabulary. But being broke doesn't have to be the case! Hear me out!

Many students try their hand at entrepreneurship during college – even if they are just selling cupcakes. You might be surprised to learn how many successful businesses started in a college dorm room.

Google, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, and FedEx were all started by university students. They had to deal with classes, homework, projects, and life . . . just like you.

Deciding to start your own business requires pushing out of your comfort zone and trying something new, but the best reasons to start your own business are that you can fulfill your passion, pursue social justice, or support non-profits, achieve financial independence, control your lifestyle/schedule, get tax benefits, and you’ll have true job security.

Ready to try?! The Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ENT) Center empowers SWAU students to start and grow successful enterprises. We are dedicated to helping students learn how to innovate and become entrepreneurs regardless of their major. The skills you learn will translate well to your future career and look great on your résumé!

Learn how to think outside the box and develop unconventional talents and skills! The global economy is changing rapidly, and even if you don't want to start your own business, an entrepreneurial mindset can prepare you for the unmapped road.

We are looking for external sponsors to support our programming and student projects, but we need your help to make this happen. How?! By participating in our workshops, seminars, and events. If you show up, the sponsors will support too!

This semester we are planning a wide array of activities that include workshops, seminars, networking events, and the Spark start-up competition.

Speaking of which... Do you have an innovative idea that could potentially turn into an enterprise? Do you have an idea that can change lives? Whether your ideas are for a business, non-profit organization, or mission-oriented project, we want to hear them all!

The Spark competition provides SWAU students the opportunity to win a cash prize of $1500, $1000, or $700 with no strings attached!

Register for Spark from March 1 - 11, 2022! Ten finalists will be chosen to present their ideas at the Spark main event on April 7, 2022!

How does it work?

1. Submit a five-minute video pitch.

2. Get feedback and be informed if you are a finalist.

3. Present your idea in person for a chance to win $!

Need help with your idea? Have questions? Email us at ent@swau.edu. You can find the requirements and the Spark application at www.swau.edu/ent.