Universities are increasingly establishing innovation hubs to cultivate entrepreneurship among students and local communities. These entrepreneurial centers, such as the University of North Dakota (UND) Center for Innovation and the Northern Innovation Startup Center at Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota, offer vital resources to help budding entrepreneurs develop and launch their business ideas.
The centers not only provide physical space for startups but also facilitate collaboration between students, faculty, and community business leaders. According to Amy Whitney, director of the UND Center for Innovation, the focus is on encouraging students to think creatively and explore new avenues in their respective fields. “Our role is to give a safe space to push those comfort zones even further and help them turn their ideas into practical innovations,” Whitney explained.
The UND Center for Innovation has been operational since 1984, becoming a key resource for students and the regional business community over the past four decades. In contrast, the Northern Innovation Startup Center, which began in November 2022, has quickly made its mark through strategic partnerships, notably with the Aberdeen Development Corporation. Director Bea Smith emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating that engaging with existing local support organizations enhances their mission to aid entrepreneurs.
Educational Opportunities and Skill Development
Both universities actively work with their business departments to create a robust environment for innovation. They offer essential workshops and programs that cover crucial entrepreneurial skills, including business planning, market analysis, and finance. Whitney noted that students engage in various networking activities across the campus, which fosters a collaborative spirit.
One noteworthy initiative at UND is the runway accelerator program, which allows students to refine their business ideas. Successful participants can receive $10,000 mini-grants to help them reach proof of concept. This funding is made possible through contributions from alumni and partnerships with the Nistler College of Business and Public Administration and the Edson Larson Foundation.
Mentorship and Community Support
A critical component of these university entrepreneurship programs is mentorship. Experienced industry professionals and faculty offer guidance on various aspects of business development, from idea generation to scaling operations. Smith stated, “We leverage our community relations to connect innovators with professionals who can assist them, such as patent attorneys.”
The collaborative environment of these innovation hubs extends beyond student entrepreneurs. At Northern State University, community members are encouraged to participate in programs designed for individuals aged 18 and older. “We want to act as an access point for those in the region with business ideas,” Smith said, emphasizing the accessibility of their workshops, which are available both in-person and online.
In addition to supporting adult entrepreneurs, UND runs a summer program called Kidpreneurs, which helps younger students develop their business concepts. Whitney highlighted the joy of watching young entrepreneurs grow their ideas, stating, “We teach them about pricing, inventory, and marketing, and they get to showcase their projects at local fairs.”
Both universities are committed to fostering a culture of innovation, encouraging students and community members alike to bring their ideas to life. Whitney summarized this mission: “We want you to bring us wild ideas, and we will help you think outside the box to make them tangible.”
Through these initiatives, university incubators are playing a vital role in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs, transforming innovative ideas into real-world applications and supporting the growth of local economies.
