JPEC Stories & News

UNI student entrepreneur showing her jewelry off in the Gallagher

Holiday market showcases UNI student entrepreneurs

Student entrepreneurs showcased their goods at the first-ever Holiday Market in the Gallagher Bluedorn on UNI campus.
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.
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 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.
UNI students with Kevin O'Leary

UNI finance and entrepreneurship students swim with “Sharks”

UNI business students had the opportunity to engage in a roundtable discussion with renowned entrepreneur and investor Kevin O'Leary of "Shark Tank."
BCS staff working on a project.

Building Communities, Shaping Futures

Almost 40 years ago, the University of Northern Iowa's Business and Community Services began with a vision to improve Iowa. Today, it has grown into 12 diverse programs offering consulting in economic development, waste reduction, family business, employee ownership, entrepreneurship, market research, and more.
Owners of Grid Lounge, Zach Everman, Reese Reimer and Patrick Luensmann

JPEC connection leads to new sim racing business venture

Zach Everman transformed a basement hobby into Grid Lounge, Cedar Falls' sim racing destination, with the support of the University of Northern Iowa's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC). Leveraging JPEC's resources and guidance, Everman navigated the entrepreneurial journey to create a unique space for racing enthusiasts and beyond.
Davan Crooker holding check for $5,000 with Patrick Luensmann

University of Northern Iowa students among winners in the 24th annual John Pappajohn Student Entrepreneurial Venture Competition

Davan Crooker of UNI's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center emerged as a first-place winner at this year's Student Entrepreneurial Venture Competition.