Self-belief is the driving force behind entrepreneurship, and it hinges on the ability of individuals to transform their ideas into tangible outcomes. At Indiana University South Bend (IUSB) they are working to help students understand what opportunities exist throughout the region to bring their entrepreneurial ideas to life. That is why they are expanding resources and programming through IU South Bend’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to provide students with the tools and connections they need to create pathways towards entrepreneurship.
Fellow Chiyedza Chinake is working with IU South Bend Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to prepare and set-up operational structures. After completing a current state analysis survey among students, it was clear that they had an appetite to learn more about entrepreneurship and how they can benefit from incorporating its practices. Those who completed the survey showed that they had interests in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to, healthcare, arts, and entertainment. The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship set out to create flexible entrepreneurship programming and education to educate students on the multitude of pathways they can use to access business resources.
Chiyedza’s work with IU South Bend’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship focuses on designing a certificate program in entrepreneurship. A flexible workshop-based program is emerging through Chiyedza’s work and the program will aim to connect students with the appropriate resources to enhance their current field of study. Currently, they are preparing to launch the first workshop during the upcoming summer semester.
Chiyedza shares, “I’m thrilled to be a part of the initiative at IU South Bend’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about business; it’s about realizing the endless possibilities within ourselves. Through this program, we will be empowering young professionals throughout the South Bend-Elkhart region to explore the possibilities of entrepreneurial pathways.”
As Chiyedza’s excitement for the pilot program grows, she and the IU South Bend Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship are currently taking actionable steps to strengthen the connection of students to entrepreneurial resources. The creation of the student ambassador program will help students connect their peers to possible pathways and opportunities in innovation. At the program launch, IU South Bend’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship hit their target number for student ambassadors, and enFocus presented on leadership and how it can be applied to their ambassadorship.
Chiyedza conveys her anticipation of the program sharing, “enFocus was happy to present on leadership and networking and the importance of entrepreneurship in the region, and why advocating for these resources is an exciting opportunity for students. We hope that the inspiration to be a part of the initiative takes hold, and we look forward to advancements that peers will provide to one another in the ever-growing entrepreneurial landscape of South Bend.”
As the IU South Bend Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship moves forward with their collaborative efforts, the horizon of possibilities expands for students. Together, IU South Bend and enFocus are joining forces to foster regional innovation, provide resources, and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit. We are not only cultivating the next generation of innovative leaders, but also building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem where entrepreneurship can grow and thrive.