The doors have opened on a new center to promote student entrepreneurship and innovation at The Ohio State University. The Student Entrepreneurs’ Center, located in the Gateway District, was created by students, for students, with support from Ohio State’s Department of Design. The grand opening was celebrated by students, faculty, university leaders, and business builders, marking a significant milestone in fostering a culture of innovation on campus.
Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. highlighted the importance of the center as a hub for connecting students with the Columbus community and industry veterans. The center aims to provide students with the resources, mentorship, and support needed to bring their entrepreneurial ideas to life. With modular spaces, conference rooms, adaptable lighting, state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, and smart boards, the center offers a conducive environment for creativity and collaboration.
Peter Mohler, executive vice president for research, innovation, and knowledge, emphasized the role of the Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship in nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit across campus. Through hands-on workshops, competitions, mentorship programs, and more, the center aims to create a community of students passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation.
One student who has benefited from the resources provided by the center is Devi Dheekshita Nelakurti, a biomedical science major and co-president of SmileChild. SmileChild is a student-founded nonprofit that aims to reduce infant mortality through a mobile app designed to educate caregivers on self and infant care. The startup received President Buckeye Accelerator funding in 2023, showcasing the impact of the center in supporting student ventures.
Mike Duffey, chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, expressed excitement for the growth of entrepreneurship and innovation in Ohio, highlighting the center’s role in supporting student startups. Entrepreneur and Ohio State alum Jesse Tyson, who operates a Starbucks franchise at the new student center, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the potential for students to build businesses while making a positive impact on the community.
The Student Entrepreneurs’ Center offers specialized student programming, personalized mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, access to a community of like-minded individuals, and startup studio services. These resources empower students on their entrepreneurial journey, from initial ideas to thriving startups and beyond. Tim Keenan, after whom the center is named, shared his own experience as a student entrepreneur and encouraged students to blaze their own trails.
In conclusion, the Student Entrepreneurs’ Center at The Ohio State University is a cutting-edge space dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among students. With its state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive support services, the center is poised to become a catalyst for student-led ventures and a hub for collaboration and creativity. As student entrepreneurs continue to thrive and leave their mark on the entrepreneurial landscape, the center stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders.
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