WELCOME TO VENTURE COLLEGE
Do you have an idea that might change the world?
Venture College prepares students to launch businesses or nonprofits. This new, non-credit program is open to all full-time students in any major , especially non-business students. Students who successfully complete the program receive the Boise State University Venture College Badge.
Start-up is Fall 2013. While the application deadline has passed, we are accepting applications for the wait list. If you would like to submit an application and be added to our wait list click here to apply. We expect to notify wait list applicants on May 15 as to whether or not there is room in the program.
Is Venture College for you? Led by business executives, Venture College offers students a customized education plan, individual coaching by experts, internships and invaluable experience to launch their own businesses or nonprofits. Be a part of like-minded, focused group of friends making a difference!
What will you receive? Individualize education designed for specifically for you. You will be eligible to compete for limited start-up funding. You will get real world experience. You will get an office in the new downtown Venture College facility. You will have one or more mentors from the business community. Some students will actually launch their businesses while still students. All will gain skills valuable to employers.
What’s the commitment? Venture College is a two-semester program. It’s flexible and self-paced, but you must be able to participate in a colloquium each Friday from noon to 2 p.m. Students should plan on about spending 10-15 hours a week on Venture College pursuits.
Who are the Leaders? Three highly experienced business people will guide Venture College:
- Kevin Learned, who created Idaho’s first commercial software company and co-founded two angel capital funds that invest in Idaho entrepreneurs
- Ed Zimmer, who was CEO as the ECCO Group grew from 20 employees to the world’s largest manufacturer of back-up alarms and warning lights for commercial vehicles, with more than 500 employees in Boise, England, and Australia
- Mary Andrews, founding director of Boise State’s Office of University and Industry Ventures, and a former venture capitalist
- And, more than 50 Idaho business leaders have signed on to assist the participants
How Much Does it Cost? It’s free! Students admitted to Venture College as part of a competitive application process pay no fees at all.
Questions? Email venturecollege@boisestate.edu or call us at 208-426-3573