Kansas entrepreneurs and early-stage startups have the opportunity to earn significant support from Kansas State University with a program designed to support state innovators.<\/p>\n
The\u00a0College of Business Administration<\/a>\u00a0is now accepting applications for the fall 2025\u00a0Center for Entrepreneurship Accelerator program<\/a>, a premier initiative that equips entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to launch and grow their businesses. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply by Sept. 14.<\/p>\n New this fall, the accelerator will offer two separate tracks:\n<\/p>\n Idea track: Designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs transform their initial business ideas into thriving ventures. Six weeks. Depending on their track, participants may gain access to faculty-led courses, hands-on student research teams, a world-class K-State alumni mentor network and up to $60,000 worth of equity-free grants. The program charges no participation fees; however, the selection process will be competitive.<\/p>\n \u201cOur Accelerator program allows us to leverage K-State\u2019s unique resources to support and grow entrepreneurial ventures,\u201d said Chad Jackson, director of the Center for the Advancement of<\/p>\n Entrepreneurship. \u201cI\u2019m excited to expand the program to include opportunities for both idea-stage entrepreneurs and those leading existing high-growth businesses. By connecting them with our faculty, alumni mentors and students, we aim to provide meaningful support at every stage of the entrepreneurial journey.\u201d<\/p>\n Applications are open to both existing and aspiring founders of scalable, for-profit businesses or ideas, including student-led ventures. Selection criteria include identifying a meaningful problem and offering an innovative solution, demonstrating drive and adaptability, and showing a strong commitment to the venture.<\/p>\n
\nGrowth track: Created for early-stage startups with proven business models looking to accelerate their growth and economic impact. Eight weeks.<\/p>\n