Ohio State University Opens New Student Entrepreneurs’ Center

The Ohio State university has recently unveiled the Student Entrepreneurs’ Center, a cutting-edge facility aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among students. Created in collaboration with the Department of Design, this initiative provides a dedicated space for aspiring business developers to nurture their ideas and transform them into successful ventures. Situated in the Gateway District, the center is also home to the Tim & Kathleen Keenan Center for Entrepreneurship.

Equipped with modular spaces, conference rooms, adaptable lighting, state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, and smart boards, the newly established center is designed to facilitate and support the innovative process. This sophisticated environment empowers students at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey – from conception to development and growth of their ventures.

One standout student benefiting from this initiative is Devi Dheekshita Nelakurti, a biomedical science major and co-president of SmileChild, a student-founded nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing infant mortality through a module-based mobile app. The startup has received funding from the President Buckeye Accelerator, illustrating the support and encouragement available to aspiring entrepreneurs at Ohio State University.

The grand opening of the center was graced by notable figures, including Mike Duffey, Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, and Jesse Tyson, an entrepreneur and Ohio State alum who operates a Starbucks franchise at the new student center. Both expressed enthusiasm and optimism regarding the growing support for student startups, reflecting a shared belief in the potential of young entrepreneurs to make positive contributions to their communities.

Quotes from influential figures involved in the project underscore the significance and impact of the new center. Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. regards the center as a vital link between the university and the wider Columbus community, providing students with valuable resources, mentorship, and support for their ideas. Peter Mohler, the executive vice president for research, innovation, and knowledge, emphasizes the center’s role in fostering an entrepreneurial culture on campus through hands-on workshops, competitions, mentorship, and more.

The sentiment is echoed by Devi Dheekshita Nelakurti, who sees the center as a safe space for students to exchange ideas, drawing on their diverse backgrounds and experiences. Finally, Tim Keenan reflects on his own journey as a student and stresses the importance of leaving a trail for the next generation of entrepreneurs to follow.

The inauguration of the Student Entrepreneurs’ Center represents a significant step towards cultivating a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation at Ohio State University. It provides students with the necessary tools, resources, and support to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and contribute to the growth and development of their communities. This investment in the potential of young entrepreneurs is a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing future business leaders and visionaries.