Our Crowdfunding Groups
The Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at OSU is dedicated to supporting student entrepreneurs through a variety of initiatives. As the go-to hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, we offer cutting-edge programs, and a wealth of resources designed to elevate and inspire the next generation of innovators and trailblazers. Our mission is to foster a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem where students can thrive and bring their visionary ideas to life. For Project Student Innovation, we are dedicated to raising awareness and funds to better support our OSU student entrepreneurs who compete in our competitions and Riata Startup Experience Program. For more information on how we hope to utilize the funds raised, please see below.
Funds from Project Student Innovation will play a significant role in enhancing scholarship awards for our Pitch and Poster and Business Plan Competitions. By increasing current awards and introducing new scholarships such as the Dreamer & Doer Scholarship, Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholarship, and Visionary Scholarship, we aim to recognize and support a broader range of student talents and aspirations. These scholarships will provide financial assistance to students, enabling them to focus on developing their innovative ideas and business plans without the added stress of financial constraints. This support not only reward their hard work and creativity but also encourages a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation at OSU! Go Pokes!
Additionally, funds from Project Student Innovation will provide support for Riata Startup Experience OSU student entrepreneurs, pursuing early-stage ventures by offering essential resources and guidance. These funds will enable access to mentorship programs, workshops, and networking opportunities that are vital for budding entrepreneurs. Additionally, financial support will help cover initial startup costs, such as prototyping, market research, and business plan development. Specialized training and industry connections will further equip students with the skills and networks necessary to navigate the complexities of launching a successful venture. By alleviating some of the financial burdens, students can focus more on innovation and growth, ultimately increasing their chances of success and contributing to a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within our community.
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Founded in 2009, the Riata Center has become a vibrant hub for OSU student entrepreneurs, offering immersive, hands-on experiences that turn innovative ideas into real-world ventures.
Startup Support is one of several features the Riata Center an provide students. Your contribution fuels the success of OSU’s next generation of startup companies. Your generosity helps us provide cutting-edge programs and vital resources that empower aspiring innovators and trailblazers to turn their ideas into reality.
The term "elevator pitch" is a short sales pitch, a summary used to quickly and simply define a process, product, service, organization or event and its value proposition. The term itself comes from a scenario of an accidental meeting with someone important in an elevator.
At the Riata Center, we drive innovation and entrepreneurship through our competitions. The Rising Entrepreneur is a competition track at both our Pitch & Poster and Business Plan competitions. Previous competition winners go head-to-head as they prepare and present their best presentation to date.
Students who compete in Riata's Business Plan Competition must submit a 2-5 page business plan/executive summary with an overview of their business, how they will solve the problem/services offered, market overview, business model, prospective customers, marketing strategy, competitive environment, team and capital needed.
The Genius Bar, located in the front area of the Riata Center, is a unique space designed for faculty, seasoned entrepreneurs, and industry experts to share their experiences and knowledge with students from all disciplines. The Genius Bar offers a wealth of insights and guidance to help students along their entrepreneurial journey.
An "angel" is a type of investor, often a wealthy individual, who provides capital and financial support to a fledgling startup in return for an ownership percentage. Students in Riata Startup Experience (RSX) Program, also known as our student incubator program, are often in search of an angel investor. Your donation would help our student run businesses get closer to their goal!