Take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level
Join UNK's program for entrepreneurially-minded students
Startup Studio is an entrepreneurship cohort designed to help students prepare to own a business one day. Up to 8 students will immerse themselves in the startup experience, allowing them to learn about every aspect of business development. Students will meet with business owners around Nebraska and partner with these entrepreneurs through a mentorship program. Startup Studio is an academic year-long program.
Pillars of the Program
- Meetups and tours from entrepreneurs across Nebraska.
- Mentorship program with Nebraska entrepreneurs to help students develop their business ideas.
- Collaboration meetings with fellow cohort members.
- Attend Startup Week events in the fall.
- Consultations with students to take a business idea from conception to being in business.
Two Day Trek
Short on time during the school year, but still want to learn from small business owners? Apply for Two Day Trek, a fast-paced experience designed to connect students with Nebraska entrepreneurs outside the classroom.
On Tuesday, August 4, and Wednesday, August 5, students will visit 8-10 businesses throughout four Nebraska communities. As business stops are confirmed, they will be added to the list.
Cost per student is $50 to cover meals and accommodations.
LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE I APPLICATION DEADLINE: APRIL 24
Meet the 2025-26 Cohort
|
Fallon Wells |
Jaeden Dillehay |
Junghyun Kim |
Kailynn Rodewald |
Eligibility
Startup Studio is open to current UNK students at or above sophomore standing by August 2026. The program is open to all majors; no previous business coursework is necessary. Grade Point Average (GPA) is not a determining factor in participant selection.
Program Fee
To participate in Startup Studio, each student will pay a program fee of $500. This fee covers the cost of travel to meetings with entrepreneurs in Grand Island, Hastings, Lincoln, Omaha, and Western Nebraska. The program fee covers the program apparel, all meals, and hotel costs. No additional costs are incurred. Sponsorships will also support this cohort to ensure students receive ample opportunities to engage with entrepreneurs throughout Nebraska. The program fee is due in two installments, $250 due by orientation in the first week of the fall semester and $250 due by January of the program year.
Application Requirements
To submit your application, fill out the form at the link below. Here are the details we ask for:
- First & Last Name
- UNK Email
- Phone Number
- Major/Minor
- Expected Graduation Date
- Hometown
- Extracurricular Involvement
- Honors or Awards Received
- Essay Questions
- What are your career goals after graduation?
- What interests you about entrepreneurship?
- Describe a problem, opportunity, or business idea you’ve identified in your community or beyond. How did you come up with this idea?
- If you have an existing business, provide a company background.
- Imagine you have one minute to pitch your entrepreneurial idea to a potential investor, banker or partner. What key points would you emphasize to capture their interest and convey the value proposition of your venture?
- Think of a product that you currently use that could be improved. Discuss how you would do that.
- Two signed letters of recommendation from professors or professional connections
Contact Information
Sara Bennett
Director, Center for Entrepreneurship and Rural Development
308-865-8199
bennettsa2@unk.edu
