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 opens a new bakery location on College Hill, crediting her most impactful experiences to UNI's JPEC and the Entrepreneurship Club.
From landscaping lawns to saving lives, UNI’s JPEC is fueling student entrepreneurs with data-driven strategies that turn side hustles into thriving businesses.
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.
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 of UNI's John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center emerged as a first-place winner at this year's Student Entrepreneurial Venture Competition.
A business that was founded at UNI is now passing its knowledge and opportunities to the next generation of students. The Iowa Media Company, which owns and runs the viral social media accounts “Iowa Chill” and “Midwest vs. Everybody,” has brought on several UNI interns into the fold to learn and help grow the brand, providing students real-world applications for what they’ve learned in the classroom.
