CWI’s Entrepreneur Lab Ignites Innovation in October

Published: November 7, 2024

College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Entrepreneur Lab experienced a month of innovation, inspiration, and growth in October thanks to the incredible participation of students, mentors, and community supporters. Here is a look at the memorable highlights.

Entrepreneur Lab Kick Off Event

The Entrepreneur Lab Kickoff Event was a success. This new space is now open to provide resources, workshops, and mentorship to entrepreneurs at all stages.

Boise Entrepreneur Week

The Entrepreneur Lab proudly collaborated on Boise Entrepreneur Week, focusing on the Innovation Youth Challenge. Staff from the College worked alongside event organizers to inspire and motivate young innovators, providing valuable insights and encouragement to the next generation of entrepreneurs.

First Steps with Nick Boban

The Entrepreneur Lab welcomed Nick Boban from Craft Lounge as a guest speaker. Boban shared his personal journey of entrepreneurship, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a successful business. Students and attendees asked insightful questions and enjoyed pizza. During the event, a $250 prize was given to a new entrepreneur for his innovative food truck business idea!

Business Basics Workshop

CWI’s Vice President of Marketing, Emily Tetz, delivered a dynamic session on branding and marketing strategies filling the room to capacity with students from Elevate Academy, alongside CWI’s Career and Technical Education programs. Students continue to share how impactfull and practical they found the session.

October Cohorts

The Entrepreneur Lab ran two successful cohorts in October, led by Director Kenton Lee:

  • Next Level Accelerator: An 8-week program for entrepreneurs with established businesses, focused on refining business models and implementing growth strategies.

     
  • Idea Set Go: A 4-week program designed for early-stage entrepreneurs, helping participants navigate ideation, market research, and customer validation.

Both programs offered targeted support for participants at different stages, making it a productive month for all involved.

Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or just starting out, the Entrepreneur Lab is here to help you on your journey. Visit the lab anytime in room 100-B at the Nampa Campus Micron Education Center to chat, ask questions, or learn more about upcoming events.

Stay up to date on future events, workshops, and resources by subscribing to the Entrepreneur Lab’s monthly newsletter.

We look forward to seeing you and helping you grow ideas!

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