The Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development is an entrepreneurial outreach center located in UNK's College of Business and Technology. The team focuses on providing effective small business counseling and education for UNK students through quality programs, engaging activities, dynamic presentations, and high-caliber partnerships throughout the state. Services and programs are open to students from all academic disciplines.
Startup Studio
Startup Studio is a cohort designed to give UNK students a chance to immerse themselves in a startup experience and learn how to create their own business. Mentorship with Nebraska entrepreneurs, meetups, tours, and business consultations are pillars of the program.
Free Business Startup Help
Are you working on a business idea or startup and looking for guidance? One-on-one business consultations with the Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development are free for UNK students.
Entrepreneurship Minor
UNK's Entrepreneurship Minor consists of 24 credits and is part of the College of Business and Technology’s AACSB-accredited Management Department. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to start, manage, and grow their own business. The Entrepreneurship Minor adds value to all UNK degrees.
Big Idea UNK
Big Idea UNK is a business pitch competition designed to foster and showcase the innovative business and product ideas emerging from our talented pool of UNK students. Finalists compete to win cash prizes to support their business ventures and scholarships.
Big Idea Buffalo County
Big Idea Buffalo County is a competition for residents from across Buffalo County to pitch new business ideas and win funding to bring them to life. Students who are from Buffalo County or plan to locate their business in Buffalo County are eligible to submit an idea.
Table of Perspectives
Inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s love of intimate, idea-driven gatherings, this student and business leader luncheon fosters meaningful conversations in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Table of Perspectives offers a unique opportunity to discuss the impact of traditional business, education, and economic practices on our lives and communities. Attendees enjoy a delicious meal while exchanging experiences, challenging assumptions, and discussing how business education can better serve individuals and communities.
Newsletters
Stay up to date with the Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development by subscribing to our newsletter, Loper Ventures.
Contact Information
Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development
West Center - #E127
UNK Campus, 1917 West 24th St.
Kearney, NE 68849
(308) 865-8199
