Innovation Campus News 2-2-2024

CELEBRATING INNOVATION:

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear Visits

WKU Innovation Campus

Last week marked a momentous occasion at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus as we welcomed Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to our headquarters. It was a privilege to showcase the vibrant collaborative spirit that defines our community and to demonstrate how diverse stakeholders are uniting to drive progress and foster innovation.


Governor Beshear's visit provided an invaluable opportunity to highlight the remarkable energy among large companies, entrepreneurs, researchers, economic developers, students, and various other stakeholders. As we opened our doors to the governor and his team, we were able to showcase the tangible impact of collective efforts in tackling challenges and nurturing growth within our ecosystem.


At the heart of our success lies a culture of innovation and collaboration, fueled by the unwavering dedication of our community members. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to this flourishing ecosystem, including our esteemed partners at KY Innovation, Metals Innovation Initiative, and beyond. Together, we are paving the way for transformative change and propelling the Bowling Green area to new heights of prosperity.


We extend our deepest gratitude to Governor Beshear and his team for their gracious presence and unwavering support. Together, we will continue to build upon the foundation of collaboration and innovation, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all.


For more news articles check out: WKU Public Radio, WBKO TV, College Heights Herald, Governor Andy Beshear Facebook or The Bowling Green Daily News

UPCOMING EVENTS

Member of the Month - Lunch and Learn

No Cost Services for Small Business Owners

 

Get ready to supercharge your business strategy with our upcoming Member of the Month Lunch & Learn focused on essential topics like business planning, financial projections, marketing, and branding. Whether you're an entrepreneur launching a startup or a seasoned business owner looking to refine your strategy, this workshop is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in today's competitive landscape.

 

Wednesday, February 28

Noon - 1pm

Hosted by - Brittanie Dawson - Business Coach

Kentucky SBDC - South Central

SmartSpace Training Room


To help with planning please RSVP HERE


*If you need access to the SmartSpace please stop by the front office.

StartupGarden

Growing Entrepreneurs from Seed

Are you ready to cultivate success in 2024? The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, KY Innovation, CREATE, and WKU Innovation Campus is thrilled to announce the kickoff of our first StartUpGarden event of the year. This is your opportunity to dive into the dynamic world of real estate with none other than Mihreta Heldic, the visionary behind Velvet Beauty House, as our keynote speaker.


Exploring the Real Estate Landscape?

Join us as Mihreta shares her expertise and insights into the real estate industry. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just dipping your toes into the market, her knowledge and experience promise to shed light on key trends, opportunities, and strategies that can help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of real estate.


Secure Your Spot Today!

Save the Date - Pie Cookoff

Attention all pie enthusiasts and baking lovers! Get ready to roll out your dough and dust off your favorite recipes because the National Pi Day Pie Cook-Off is just around the corner. Whether you're a seasoned baker or simply enjoy indulging in a delicious slice of pie, this event promises to be a celebration of all things flaky, fruity, and fantastic.


But that's not all—prepare to be dazzled by our special guest judge, none other than Brie Golliher, the esteemed Pie Queen of BG. Renowned for her culinary expertise and passion for pie-making, Brie will be lending her discerning taste buds to the competition, critiquing each pie with the precision of a true connoisseur.


In addition to judging duties, Brie will take the stage to share her journey and the inspiration behind the creation of the Pie Queen of BG. From humble beginnings to becoming a renowned authority in the world of pies.

INNOVATION CAMPUS

PIE COOKOFF


National PI Day - Thursday, March 14


1:00 - 2:00

Innovation Campus - Room 129


Stay tuned for more details.

Thought Leadership

We are thrilled to share that our very own Amanda Harvard, CEO of Oria Health, was recently featured in the Thought Leadership campaign by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. Check out a couple of quotes from Amanda below. Stay up to date on local events by connecting with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or LinkedIn for exciting things happing in the area.


"Culture is very important to the development of the Bowling Green area right now. It's essential to ensure the vision that so many of us have for this community extends to all its members. Strong brands - like strong cultures - not only attract the right people; they also repel the wrong ones. BGKY is filled with thriving business and budding opportunity, but it's true differentiator is the calm, kind collaborative nature of its citizens."


"What if the work we do here could act as an engine to revitalize communities in the heartland - to right-size and reconcile the reality of the talent and education economic capacity of millennials? What if we painted a picture of how a region could thrive near a metropolis not as a bedroom community, but as a bedrock of a new community of innovation, progress, commerce, and culture all its own?


How can we prepare our community for future changes? By cultivating a growth mindset, embracing metacognition, and practicing clear, kind embracing challenges. As we often say at Orio when identifying a need or an opportunity to Do Good: 'No one's coming.' That means if there's something to be done, changed, built, fixed or made, it's onus. Have a vision for a better world? It's up to you to build it."


Amanda Havard - CEO of Oria Health - WKU Innovation Campus Member

EXCITING ANNOUNCMENT:

Be Our Next Member of the Month

at the Innovation Campus

We are excited to share an amazing opportunity for your company, business, or lab to stand out at the WKU Innovation Campus! Each month, we feature a standout member as our "Member of the Month" in our newsletter and emails, reaching our community of innovators, faculty, and staff at WKU.


As a Member of the Month, you'll enjoy a spotlight across our various platforms, including:



  • Featured in our newsletter and emails, reaching our extensive network.
  • Invited to provide a captivating "Lunch and Learn" session to share your insights with fellow members and WKU faculty and staff.
  • Spotlighted on our social media pages, showcasing your contributions and innovations to a wider audience.


It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase your achievements, share your expertise, and connect with like-minded innovators within our growing community.


Interested in being our next Member of the Month? Let us know HERE.

WKU Innovation Campus in the News

Tim Caboni spoke at Western Kentucky University’s last convocation ceremony about the need to double the university’s research activity within the next five to seven years. The WKU Innovation Campus has been at the heart of that initiative.


“The future of the Innovation Campus includes additional investment in spaces for companies and a deepening of partnerships with companies we already have there,” Caboni said. Read More

IDEAS NEEDED

Building A Vibrant Community at

the Innovation Campus

Here at the Innovation Campus, we strive to cultivate a strong sense of community among our talented individuals. We believe that by coming together, sharing ideas, and collaborating, we can achieve incredible things.


To further enhance our community experience, we want to hear from you! Do you have an event, training, or any other initiative in mind that you'd like to see offered at the Innovation Campus? Whether it's a workshop on emerging technologies, a networking event for entrepreneurs, or a wellness program to promote work-life balance, we're open to your suggestions.


Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our community, and we're committed to providing opportunities that meet your needs and interests. Together, let's create a dynamic and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.


Share your ideas with us by clicking HERE.

Let's Be Social

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