Empowering a new generation of entrepreneurs
IU Innovates is your launchpad to entrepreneurship. Here you have the unique opportunity to explore your curiosities, test and optimize concepts, and build the future—all while working alongside fellow students and industry mentors.
Central to IU’s 2030 strategic plan pillars of student success, transformative research and creativity, and service to the state and beyond, IU Innovates ensures entrepreneurs know where to start and continually access the right resource at the right time.
Through programs like JagStart, Founders in Residence, and Founders Group, we prepare students who are ready to explore entrepreneurship to test boundaries, share their vision, and adapt in an ever-evolving world.
In an entrepreneurial ecosystem, you get access to so many people with real-world experience and success.
Brie Dillman, Kelley Student and JagStart Finalist
Events and programs
Our programs are designed to give students opportunities to explore entrepreneurship. Join us at our weekly Founders Group meetings, pitch your big idea at JagStart, our annual competition, or find another way to get involved. View the full event calendar to get started.
Meet Anna Dorris, Entrepreneurship Program Director
Anna Dorris is a graduate of Indiana University Indianapolis, with a degree in Finance and a minor in Economics. While in school, Anna competed in and won the JagStart pitch competition, starting her career in entrepreneurship. At the time of graduation, Anna received venture backing and her first enterprise customer, allowing her to run her business full-time.
Today, Anna serves as the Entrepreneurship Program Manager for IU Innovates Indianapolis. Anna’s goal in opening the space and developing the initial programming is to create the programs and support she wished she had as a student. She supports student founders through mentorship, workshops, and JagStart.
Community Partnerships
One of the most rewarding aspects of IU Innovates is working with industry leaders who have been where you are. Connect with Sebastian Penix from the Indiana Small Business Development Center or explore the 8-week accelerator program through 16Tech and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. Take advantage of these resources to transform your perspective and elevate your path.
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16 Tech Ignition
An 8-week program designed to help collegiate founders validate their ventures, refine their minimum viable products (MVPs), and connect with Indiana's startup ecosystem.
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ConnectIND
Discover statewide events for Indiana entrepreneurs and network with founders and organizations who are building, growing, and innovating across the state.
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Sebastian Penix
Talk with Sebastian Penix from the Indiana Small Business Development Center. Attend his office hours or schedule a one-on-one to discuss branding, financial projections, pitching, and more.
Entrepreneurship Program Director
Anna Dorris
IU Innovates Indianapolis, Room IP100
875 W North St.
Indianapolis,
IN
46202
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Friday: Closed