It’s not everyday you can meet some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world. 

On Saturday, July 27, UNI finance and entrepreneurship students had the opportunity to engage in a roundtable discussion with renowned entrepreneur and investor Kevin O'Leary, famously known as Mr. Wonderful on the television show "Shark Tank." On the show O’Leary and other influential investors make or break the dreams of aspiring inventors, innovators and start-up companies.

The opportunity was part of Summit Agricultural Group’s Investor Day, held at the residence of founder and chairman Bruce Rastetter. The session provided an invaluable experience for five selected students within the Wilson College of Business, offering them direct insights from leading figures in the business world.

“My favorite aspect of the event was networking with investors, politicians and other attendees I normally wouldn't have access to connect with,” said senior finance major Nathan Crooker.

Following the roundtable, students were given the opportunity to stay for the annual Summit Agriculture Group investor meeting, providing a rare glimpse into high-level investment strategies and discussions. Later in the day, students engaged in a networking hour joined by investors and industry leaders.

With the combination of insightful discussions, high-level investment meetings and networking opportunities, the event marks a significant milestone for all involved, fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration among the brightest young minds.

“It’s a great opportunity for these students,” said Bart Schmitz, program manager of UNI’s John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center. “Students are learning to network and the power of connections. They are great at engaging and putting themselves out there. For us to be invited and for students to be exposed to that - that doesn’t happen every day.”

Multiple students reflected on a key piece of advice given by O’Leary: “Being able to differentiate the ‘noise’ from a ‘signal’ is what makes entrepreneurs successful.”