Discover, Create, and Connect with the Entrepreneur Lab

Published: September 26, 2025

This fall is already off to an exciting start at the Entrepreneur Lab at College of Western Idaho (CWI).  

September brought students together for engaging workshops, inspiring speakers, and new opportunities to connect. Entrepreneurs, like Matt Pipkin of IdaRent, shared real-world experiences about starting and growing a business, while the launch of the Next Level Accelerator welcomed nine participants ready to take their ventures to new heights. The Entrepreneur Lab also connected with students across CWI campuses through outreach booths, sparking conversations and curiosity about entrepreneurship. With this momentum, the semester is set to bring even more chances for students to learn, grow, and get inspired. 

Are you looking to explore entrepreneurship, connect with other innovators, or just get inspired? The Entrepreneur Lab is the place to do it. Don’t miss out on the big things happening this fall. From open houses and networking events to hands-on programs and competitions, the Entrepreneur Lab is buzzing with opportunities for you to connect, learn, and bring your ideas to life. 

Students can explore workshops, hear from local business leaders, and even participate in a chance to win prizes at the semester’s signature event, OtterTank, CWI’s pitch competition, where students showcase ideas and compete for prize money in a fun, science-fair-style event. 

For students who may not have a business idea just yet, the Entrepreneur Lab still provides plenty of ways to get involved, whether it is enjoying food created by local entrepreneurs, attending networking events, or joining peers in brainstorming sessions. It is a place to build skills that translate far beyond entrepreneurship, from problem-solving and leadership to creativity and communication. 

Learn more about upcoming events and discover how to get involved by visiting the Entrepreneur Lab. 

More from CWI

Lobby of Nampa Campus Academic Building filled with students

Discover and learn about resources, services, and opportunities on and off campus at the College's Student Resource Fair.

Read more about Fall 2026 Student Resource Fair
Group of students on campus

Get ready for Fall 2026 at CWI! Join us for Ready, Set, Thrive! on Aug. 14 to find classrooms, get organized, and start strong across CWI campuses.

Read more about Ready, Set, Thrive!
Three students stand near railing and laughing

Week of Welcome is a campuswide initiative designed to support students during their first week of classes and help them start the semester strong.

Read more about Welcome to Fall 2026, Otters!
Save the Date | CWI Week | Oct. 19 - 23

The weeklong celebration will recognize the people, programs, and partnerships that strengthen the College and the communities it serves.

Read more about Save the Date for CWI Week
Group of students in front of CWI sign

Designed for elementary through high school students, the camp introduced participants to technology, networking, and cybersecurity through hands-on learning experiences.

Read more about Students Explore Technology Careers at CWI Tech Quest Summer Camp
Tables of people in a banquet hall

CWI honored student leaders, clubs, and advisors at the annual Student Leadership Awards Banquet, celebrating leadership, service, and campus impact.

Read more about Student Leaders, Clubs Recognized at 2026 Awards Banquet
People roaming around the Greenhouse

Proceeds from the sale directly support student learning in the Horticulture Technology program, helping fund courses and student learning.

Read more about Annual Plant Sale Raises 17K for Students
Person looking through library books

The Library helps students build those skills while providing access to research tools, study spaces, technology, and personalized support throughout their academic journey.

Read more about Learning Commons: Library
Winners with a giant check

Students, employees, and community members pitched business ideas, side hustles, and early-stage ventures through to win prize funding and audience support.

Read more about Spring 2026 OtterTank Showcases and Celebrates Entrepreneurs
Barrel marked with Boise Rescue Mission signs

Student Nurses Association is partnering with Boise Rescue Mission Ministries to collect hygiene products for local community members in need.

Read more about Spring Into the Spirit of Giving Back
Two people holding plates of pancakes

The CWI Learning Commons team is hosting a series of events designed to help students prepare, relax, and find motivation as they head into the final stretch of the semester.

Read more about Spring 2026 Crunch Week
People sitting on a bench at the Student Arboretum

A year later after its open, the Student Arboretum has become an outdoor classroom, sustainability project, and growing community resource.

Read more about Student Arboretum Grows into Hands-On Learning Space

News QR Code

URL: https://cwi.edu/index%2Ephp/news/discover-create-and-connect-entrepreneur-lab<br>