Opportunities

In addition to the Start Something LAS Academy, all students have access to a wide range of support, resources, and hands-on experiences through Start Something LAS to develop their skills, explore ideas, and grow their network—whether or not they are part of the Academy.

Two students at the 2023 Cy Starters Demo DayCyStarters – Students and recent graduates can participate in an 11-week accelerator program and work on their startup or business idea.

A student presents an idea at the ISU College-by-college pitch offLAS college-by-college pitch offs – Students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences compete for cash prizes, as they give a 90-second pitch about an innovative idea or venture.

A group of students and employers meet each other at a networking event

Networking events – Get to know peers and professionals at events like Sharkuterie Connections, where students judge elevator speeches by local businesses – while enjoying charcuterie board delights.

A group of students and employers meet each other at a networking event

Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute – Students can participate in an advanced study of entrepreneurship that includes seminars with successful entrepreneurs; networking and mentoring to enhance their understanding of entrepreneurship opportunities in Iowa; and have a little but of fun too.

Student at the Excite eventStudent Innovation Center EXCITE! Open House – Students participate in engaging demonstrations, interactive games and activities on every floor, exclusive giveaways, delicious snacks, and plenty of fun!

Student conducting undergraduate research holds a small jar of liquid to examine its contentsUndergraduate research – From fighting disease to exploring ancient civilizations, you can engage in innovative research with LAS faculty.

Portrait of Kaleb Nichols

Not only did [CyStarters] give me educational sessions and professional meetings with attorneys and things of that nature for free, but they also gave me money to fund my organization and business.

Kaleb Nichols, liberal studies, African American studies, sociology

Entrepreneurship minor

You can get a taste for entrepreneurship or go all out, and add a minor in entrepreneurship to your resume! The following LAS courses are all approved for credit as part of the minor in entrepreneurship program.

Approved courses

  • COMS 4020: Computer Science Senior Project
  • COMST 2140: Professional Communication
  • COMST 2180: Conflict Management
  • COMST 3270/PSYCH 3270: Persuasion & Social Influence
  • ENGL 2500: Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition
  • ENGL 3090: Proposal and Report Writing
  • FRNCH 3040: French for Global Professionals
  • GER 3040: German for Global Professionals
  • JLMC 3910Q: Media Entrepreneurship: Launching a Media Brand
  • LAS 4900E: Entrepreneurial Studies Independent Study
  • LAS 3450: Innovation and Entrepreneurship I
  • LAS 3460: Innovation and Entrepreneurship II
  • LDST 3700: Special Topics: Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation
  • POLS 3350: Science, Technology, & Public Policy
  • POLS 4770/5770: Government, Business, & Society
  • SOC 2100: Social and Civic Innovation
  • SPAN 3040: Spanish for Global Professionals
  • SPCM 3120: Business and Professional Speaking
  • WLC/MKT/M E 4840/WLC/MKT/M E 5840: Technology, Globalization, & Culture