Business and Community Services Stories & News

Holiday Market

UNI John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center launches holiday market showcasing student small businesses

The community is invited to a festive afternoon of holiday shopping at the first University of Northern Iowa Student Small Business Holiday Market on Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center.
Kathryn Gilbery, Patrick Luensmann and Shelly Christensen with 20 Under 40

Three UNI employees honored in Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier’s “20 Under 40”

Since UNI makes such a major impact on the Cedar Valley, it is only fitting for its employees to be among those recognized in the Courier’s annual “20 Under 40” list, which celebrates outstanding young leaders in the local community. This year, three University of Northern Iowa employees from across campus are being honored:
Iowa Lt. Gov. Cournoyer touring AEB

Iowa Lt. Gov. Cournoyer visits UNI facilities to highlight innovation and workforce development

Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer visited the University of Northern Iowa and UNI’s TechWorks Campus as part of a tour focused on workforce development, advanced manufacturing and regional economic growth.
Brazilian students at the Business & Community Services building

Nearly 100 Brazilian students find their fit at UNI

50 students from Brazil are at UNI to improve their English skills and learn more about agribusiness and entrepreneurship. 47 more will be here in the spring.
Group of students pose during Parma Calcio Soccer Club tour

Students discover lessons learned for family businesses during Italy study abroad trip

From family farms to Italian firms — UNI students discovered how family businesses thrive across generations and cultures.
Group photo of Lange Kruger with Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute

How the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute inspired Lane Kruger’s next business journey

After a transformative week at the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute, Lane Kruger ('26) returned to the Wilson College of Business with a sharper vision, stronger network, and the confidence to turn his creative side hustle into a full-time business.
UNI graduate, Maddie Palmersheim, holds passed inspection certificate on her new location on College Hill.

From classroom to College Hill: UNI marketing graduate finds success in local business

UNI graduate Maddie Palmersheim opens a new bakery location on College Hill, crediting her most impactful experiences to UNI's JPEC and the Entrepreneurship Club.
A person practices using an AED on a CPR training mannequin.

Data drives business success for UNI student entrepreneurs

From landscaping lawns to saving lives, UNI’s JPEC is fueling student entrepreneurs with data-driven strategies that turn side hustles into thriving businesses.
Employees high-fiving

New Wilson College of Business research highlights ESOP benefits for young workers

New UNI research shows employee ownership boosts young workers’ stability and satisfaction — could ESOPs be the key to Iowa’s economic future?
President Nook talking to Sen. Joni Ernst

Sen. Joni Ernst highlights UNI’s role in workforce development during campus visit

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst visited the University of Northern Iowa on Wednesday, touring the Applied Engineering Building and the new nursing facilities in the Innovative Teaching and Technology Center.