How the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute inspired Lane Kruger’s next business journey
How the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute inspired Lane Kruger’s next business journey
Over the course of his time at the Wilson College of Business, Lane Kruger ('26) has taken his photography and videography business, Kruger Co. Productions, from a part-time hobby into a viable full-time venture. Initially handy with a camera, he started by taking photos for friends on campus for some extra cash, and his roommates then encouraged him to join the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) to take it a step further.
This summer, that plan to grow the business accelerated when Kruger had a life-changing experience at the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute (OEI).
The OEI is a week-long summer program that brings college students from across Iowa together for hands-on learning with mentors and a host of activities meant to foster lasting relationships. Students follow one of three tracks — ideation, prototype and revenue — and attend workshops led by successful business owners. JPEC sends several students every year free of charge.
Kruger entered the program in the revenue track and said what he learned completely shifted his perspective. The program’s mentors dug into his budget, profit margins and client numbers, pushing him to see his business’ true potential.
"It was just eye-opening to see how I could operate my business on another level," Kruger said. "You’re getting asked the hard questions, which helped a lot because the people asking the questions have run a business before and are experienced. They helped me realize that running my own business is where my passion lies."
Another valuable experience was from Kruger's host family, who own dozens of car dealerships across western Iowa. He gleaned a wealth of business information, not the least of which was the importance of confidence and the importance of attention to detail.
What Kruger learned has already paid major dividends for his business. Just a week and a half after finishing the program, Kruger is discussing a video project with a client involving all 99 Iowa counties — a landmark project.
The program really was a community of like-minded individuals who were focused on business and just wanted to succeed and see others succeed.
Beyond the formal curriculum, some of the most memorable moments were the less formal opportunities, like dinners with host families and boating on Lake Okoboji. Kruger networked with other student entrepreneurs across the state, which has led to valuable connections and even new business opportunities.
"Not only am I making friendships, but I’m building my business to help their businesses," Kruger said.
For Kruger, the OEI experience was more than learning about business, it provided inspiration. He returned to campus with the confidence to pursue his business as a full-time career.
“I was told by previous seniors who went through the program that it was one of the best experiences of their lives,” Kruger said. “I didn’t believe it until I experienced it myself, and it’s true. I’m inspired to run my business full-time, inspired to help others, inspired to give more students the opportunities I had.'"
