"Our Tomorrow" UNI Mugs
Nov 30, 2022

UNI JPEC student making handmade ceramics for ‘Our Tomorrow’ campaign

Anna Gilbreath thought it was a joke at first. She was staring at an email from the University of Northern Iowa’s UNI Foundation asking if she, under her handmade ceramics business Anna Grace Creates, could make 275 mugs and 50 planters with branding for the “Our Tomorrow” fundraising campaign. She excitedly responded yes.


Nathan Crooker
Nov 27, 2022

Elevator Pitch Competition provides three UNI student entrepreneurs with a cash prize to fund their ventures

With 90 seconds on the clock, 16 students from the University of Northern Iowa set out to prove they have what it takes to sustain a successful business.


Sam Parakkal presenting about JoyCorps
Nov 09, 2022

Working at the intersection of purpose and profit, UNI alum helps entrepreneurs build impactful businesses

UNI alum Sam Parkkal's life has come full circle from his time being mentored at the JPEC to now becoming a mentor as the executive director of JoyCorps.


OEI Competition
Oct 13, 2022

Students take home awards, experience from Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute

A group of entrepreneurship students from the University of Northern Iowa John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) were selected to attend the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute (OEI) this summer, gaining valuable skills and taking home some hardware.


Photo of Business and Community Services
Jul 25, 2022

UNI Small Business Development Center helps area small businesses thrive

The University of Northern Iowa’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is here to help those growing or starting a business in the nine-county area around Waterloo and Cedar Falls. The center, which is housed in the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center on campus, provides no-cost, confidential business counseling customized to each client’s needs.


Russel Karim on Times Square jumbotron
Jul 06, 2022

From the JPEC to the Times Square jumbotron: one UNI alum’s journey to success in entrepreneurship

UNI graduate and former John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center resident Russel Karim has made it big time — on the Times Square jumbotron in New York City.


UNI campus
Jun 23, 2022

Presidents’ Choice Awards recognize impactful student, community organizations

By winning Presidents' Choice Awards, three student and community organizations have been recognized for their impact on campus and the broader community.


Ribbon cutting at the new UNI JPEC space
Jun 21, 2022

UNI JPEC reorganization provides more space for student entrepreneurs to build businesses

The UNI JPEC is fueling entrepreneurship with more gusto than ever before thanks to a recent reorganization in the BCS building.


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