MetroMBA

UIC Promotes Start-Up Spirit at the Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies

Start-ups and the entrepreneurial spirit are two of the biggest things discussed at B-schools nowadays. As more and more students are creating their own opportunities through start-ups and venture capital, schools are crafting their own centers to help incubate the visions of their students.

The Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies (IES) is University of Illinois Chicago’s resource for inspiring and empowering entrepreneurs. This includes students with an interest in launching and leading a new business ventures of any size or sort, those who want to join a start-up team that has already gotten off the ground, or those who just want to know more about how they may fit into the start-up lifestyle.

IES offer a bevy of diverse programs including classes, workshops, challenges and certificates that introduce new venture development skills and experiences.  The IES calls its programs “applied, interdisciplinary and tailored with a bias toward action.” These programs often extend and complement traditional university courses that go along with earning a traditional degree.

IES Programs include:

IES is also a sponsor of the Illinois Small Business Development Center at UIC. Since 2002, the Illinois SBDC at UIC has worked  with students, faculty and the community to help emerging and established business owners start, grow and build their own ventures. Over the past decade the Illinois SBDC at UIC has helped over 2000 entrepreneurs launch 200 new businesses, creating 2600 jobs and securing over $85 million in funding.

Last year, the Illinois SBDC at UIC helped clients secure over $2 million in loans and $3 million in equity investment. Five clients successfully registered a patent and two clients received over $200,000 in SBIR funds.

IES can connect students with experts, mentors, other entrepreneurs and the growing resources of the entrepreneurial community beyond UIC. For more information visit the Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies website.

About the Author

Max Pulcini is a Philadelphia-based writer and reporter. He has an affinity for Philly sports teams, Super Smash Bros. and cured meats and cheeses. Max has written for Philadelphia-based publications such as Spirit News, Philadelphia City Paper, and Billy Penn, as well as national news outlets like The Daily Beast.

Exit mobile version