University Innovation Fellows - User contributions [en]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-19T08:48:51Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]



Our University does a great job of engaging in regional and local economic development efforts.  The student’s access to the university’s Generator gives them the opportunity to work along side a new start up that was helped launched by the Alabama Launchpad.  The support we get from the College of Business is unparalleled.  The College of Business and the Shoals Chamber of Commerce work together to create a new culture of entrepreneurship and innovation around Florence, AL. “Tech startups in the Shoals such as Andy Alonso and Brandon Gillis’ PartCycle and Robbie Hillis’ The Ark Labs, for example, now have access to investor partnerships without having to leave the Shoals.“ Faculty does a great job in connecting students with the community and its partner’s including: Shoals Chamber of Commerce, Shoal Entrepreneurial Center, Tech MeetUp entrepreneurs. Thanks to the Shoals Entrepreneurial Center and its partnership with an Angel Capitol Group, students have the opportunity win millions of dollars in capitol if they have the next unique idea.



= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama_Strategic_Priorities http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama_Strategic_Priorities]

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason]

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

== Project Pitch  ==

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjufN0PPB20&feature=youtu.be

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-19T08:23:15Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]



Our University does a great job of engaging in regional and local economic development efforts.  The student’s access to the university’s Generator gives them the opportunity to work along side a new start up that was helped launched by the Alabama Launchpad.  The support we get from the College of Business is unparalleled.  The College of Business and the Shoals Chamber of Commerce work together to create a new culture of entrepreneurship and innovation around Florence, AL. “Tech startups in the Shoals such as Andy Alonso and Brandon Gillis’ PartCycle and Robbie Hillis’ The Ark Labs, for example, now have access to investor partnerships without having to leave the Shoals.“ Faculty does a great job in connecting students with the community and its partner’s including: Shoals Chamber of Commerce, Shoal Entrepreneurial Center, Tech MeetUp entrepreneurs. Thanks to the Shoals Entrepreneurial Center and its partnership with an Angel Capitol Group, students have the opportunity win millions of dollars in capitol if they have the next unique idea.



= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama_Strategic_Priorities http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama_Strategic_Priorities]

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason]

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

== Project Pitch  ==

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2hiSsHOmyQ&feature=youtu.be 

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:46:03Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]



Our University does a great job of engaging in regional and local economic development efforts.  The student’s access to the university’s Generator gives them the opportunity to work along side a new start up that was helped launched by the Alabama Launchpad.  The support we get from the College of Business is unparalleled.  The College of Business and the Shoals Chamber of Commerce work together to create a new culture of entrepreneurship and innovation around Florence, AL. “Tech startups in the Shoals such as Andy Alonso and Brandon Gillis’ PartCycle and Robbie Hillis’ The Ark Labs, for example, now have access to investor partnerships without having to leave the Shoals.“ Faculty does a great job in connecting students with the community and its partner’s including: Shoals Chamber of Commerce, Shoal Entrepreneurial Center, Tech MeetUp entrepreneurs. Thanks to the Shoals Entrepreneurial Center and its partnership with an Angel Capitol Group, students have the opportunity win millions of dollars in capitol if they have the next unique idea.



= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama_Strategic_Priorities

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:39:12Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama_Strategic_Priorities

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

Priorities:University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities

2016-02-12T01:38:48Z

Aholbert:

'''Strategic Goals: '''

'''The UNA Fellows Vision:''' To promote Innovation and Entrepreneurship by integrating, incorporating, and accelerating multidisciplinary programs into our university’s culture. 

'''The Triple E Mission''': '''E'''xcite and '''E'''ngage students to '''E'''mbrace Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

= Immediate Initiatives:  =

== Initative #1: Change the Language ==

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we have to change the verbiage and language to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

Terms we researched and will be implementing in our promotion: 

·      Problem Solving

·      Renovation

·      Development

·      Transformation

·      Ambitious

·      Diversification

·      Enlightening

·      Coaching

== Initative #2: Inform the Stakeholders ==

Though the Stakeholder meeting is mandatory, we are using this as the platform to introduce this ENTIRE transformation plan. In fact, we will be asking for partnerships with faculty and staff and the community through this meeting. So far, there are 0 students helping with this endeavour. We are the first, and we must grab the attention of the most powerful people on campus. 

== Initative #3: INTERVIEW ==

After all of this work, we HAVE to get students talking. They won't talk to anybody but us, and we have to find out EXACTLY what they need and want, excite them, and get them to embrace this change. We need promotionals, marketing, giveaways, motivational speaking, clubs, organizations, events...and it all starts with us. 

= Long-Term Initiatives: =

== Intiative #4: Google Talks and Ted Talks ==

In order to gain more value in the minds of our students, we need exciting and knowledgable events. By hosting a TedTalks, the students would become engaged, the faculty and staff would understand the vitality of implementing innovation and technology in all departments, and UNA would also gain from a rise in education standards and acknowledgement.  

== Initiative #5: Workspaces ==

We struggled mapping out the workspaces available to students 24/7 with the resources to be creative, test ideas, and prototype. Simply, this is unrealistic and unacceptable, especially if we are trying to grow to become more tech savvy. We must provide more workspaces for students to have the power to continually create, research, and design. 

== Initiative #6: Grant Writing for Research/Internships/Entrepreneurs ==

Funding from a regional, state, and federal level is a must in order for us to be successful through this transformation. Technology and advancement is very expensive, and simply, our community is not equipped to pour billions of dollars into our program. We, the students, must use our power to persuade the government and private companies to invest in us, because they will be investing in the future of the state/nation. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[[Category:StudentContributors|a]].[[Category:StudentContributors|g]].[[Category:StudentContributors|n]].[[Category:StudentContributors|r]].

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:38:24Z

Aholbert:

<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Abigail Holbert'''</div> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Senior at the University of North Alabama - Marketing and Innovation Engineering''' </div>

<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Welcome to my profile! I go by Abbie and I am absolutely thrilled to be a candidate for the Innovation Fellows Program. I am a marketing major with a concentration in Professional Sales and an Innovation Engineering minor. I work as an analyst at Blue Print Technical Solutions as well as manage social media for several clients. Thankfully, I graduate in May and I am looking forward to moving out of my small town into a larger city - hopefully Nashville or Louisville. This Fellows Program provides me an opportunity to receive the training and tools I need to fuel my passions in beginning startup incubators and entrepreneurial centers around the country.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion and my desire to become an Innovation Fellow go hand in hand- I want to possess the training and skills necessary to help all students pursue their entrepreneurial ideas and provide structure that allows dreams to become a reality. With this training, I know that I can confidently aid students and entrepreneurs in beginning their business. </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div>
'''What is your passion''' 
<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is to use my networking skills and marketing education to help every student with an entrepreneurial spirit chase their dreams and create their small business start-up. I want to open student incubators and encourage students to chase their dreams while providing tools, support, and funding for their ideas.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div>

[[Category:StudentContributors|a]].[[Category:StudentContributors|g]].[[Category:StudentContributors|r]].[[Category:StudentContributors|n]].

Fellow:Ryan Mason

2016-02-12T01:38:01Z

Aholbert:

'''Ryan Mason'''
<div class="ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">
==== '''University of North Alabama - Professional Finance and Business Administration''' ====
<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Ryan Mason is a young aspiring entrepreneur who believes in turning ideas into reality. As a student studying Professional Finance and Business Administration at the University of North Alabama and a former collegiate athlete (football), he has taken part in helping young entrepreneurs of the community bridge the gap from ideas to an actual business. In his free time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and working out. In the future he plans to become the owner of multiple business ventures and give back to the community</div></div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow'''  </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I want to be a fellow so that I am able to uplift others as I climb.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What is your passion'''  </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is entrepreneurship.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What school do you attend''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">''' '''The University of North Alabama</div></div>

[[Category:StudentContributors|a]].[[Category:StudentContributors|g]].[[Category:StudentContributors|r]].[[Category:StudentContributors|n]].

Fellow:Grace Piper

2016-02-12T01:37:36Z

Aholbert:

=== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Biology/Pre-medicine''' ===
<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div>
=== Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow  ===
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I want to be an Innovation Fellow because I would like to collaborate with other individuals that want to make a difference.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px;">
=== What is your passion  ===
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is helping the homeless and anyone who is in need.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div></div>

[[Category:StudentContributors|a]].
[[Category:StudentContributors|g]].[[Category:StudentContributors|r]].[[Category:StudentContributors|n]].

Fellow:Grace Piper

2016-02-12T01:36:54Z

Aholbert:

=== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Biology/Pre-medicine''' ===
<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div>
=== Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow  ===
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I want to be an Innovation Fellow because I would like to collaborate with other individuals that want to make a difference.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px;">
=== What is your passion  ===
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is helping the homeless and anyone who is in need.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">[[Category:StudentContributors|g]].</div></div></div>

Fellow:Grace Piper

2016-02-12T01:36:31Z

Aholbert:

=== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Biology/Pre-medicine''' ===
<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div>
=== Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow  ===
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I want to be an Innovation Fellow because I would like to collaborate with other individuals that want to make a difference.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px;">
=== What is your passion  ===
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is helping the homeless and anyone who is in need.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">[[Category:StudentContributors|g]]</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">[[Category:StudentContributors|a]]</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">[[Category:StudentContributors|n]]</div></div></div>

Fellow:Nathan Martin

2016-02-12T01:35:57Z

Aholbert:

'''Nathan Martin'''
<div class="ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">
==== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Management, Minor Innovation Engineering''' ====
<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Nathan Martin is from Tuscumbia, AL where he attended Deshler Highschool. He is the small business owner of Grassmasters. Nathan's main two interests are entrepreneurship and innovation. His hobbies are getting outdoors and watching Alabama football. Nathan is a spokesperson for the Generator, as well as an active team member on the UNA Fishing Team. He enjoys intramural sports as well, and is currently a captain for his team!</div></div></div>
. [[Category:StudentContributors|n]]

Priorities:University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities

2016-02-12T01:35:01Z

Aholbert:

'''Strategic Goals: '''

''''''

'''''''''The UNA Fellows Vision:''' To promote Innovation and Entrepreneurship by integrating, incorporating, and accelerating multidisciplinary programs into our university’s culture. 

'''The Triple E Mission''': '''E'''xcite and '''E'''ngage students to '''E'''mbrace Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

= Immediate Initiatives:  =

== Initative #1: Change the Language ==

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we have to change the verbiage and language to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

Terms we researched and will be implementing in our promotion: 

·      Problem Solving

·      Renovation

·      Development

·      Transformation

·      Ambitious

·      Diversification

·      Enlightening

·      Coaching



== Initative #2: Inform the Stakeholders ==

Though the Stakeholder meeting is mandatory, we are using this as the platform to introduce this ENTIRE transformation plan. In fact, we will be asking for partnerships with faculty and staff and the community through this meeting. So far, there are 0 students helping with this endeavour. We are the first, and we must grab the attention of the most powerful people on campus. 



== Initative #3: INTERVIEW ==

After all of this work, we HAVE to get students talking. They won't talk to anybody but us, and we have to find out EXACTLY what they need and want, excite them, and get them to embrace this change. We need promotionals, marketing, giveaways, motivational speaking, clubs, organizations, events...and it all starts with us. 

= Long-Term Initiatives: =

== Intiative #4: Google Talks and Ted Talks ==

In order to gain more value in the minds of our students, we need exciting and knowledgable events. By hosting a TedTalks, the students would become engaged, the faculty and staff would understand the vitality of implementing innovation and technology in all departments, and UNA would also gain from a rise in education standards and acknowledgement.  

== Initiative #5: Workspaces ==

We struggled mapping out the workspaces available to students 24/7 with the resources to be creative, test ideas, and prototype. Simply, this is unrealistic and unacceptable, especially if we are trying to grow to become more tech savvy. We must provide more workspaces for students to have the power to continually create, research, and design. 

== Initiative #6: Grant Writing for Research/Internships/Entrepreneurs ==

Funding from a regional, state, and federal level is a must in order for us to be successful through this transformation. Technology and advancement is very expensive, and simply, our community is not equipped to pour billions of dollars into our program. We, the students, must use our power to persuade the government and private companies to invest in us, because they will be investing in the future of the state/nation.

Priorities:University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities

2016-02-12T01:31:14Z

Aholbert:

'''Strategic Goals: '''

''''''

'''''''''The UNA Fellows Vision:''' To promote Innovation and Entrepreneurship by integrating, incorporating, and accelerating multidisciplinary programs into our university’s culture. 

'''The Triple E Mission''': '''E'''xcite and '''E'''ngage students to '''E'''mbrace Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

= Immediate Initiatives:  =

== Initative #1: Change the Language ==

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we have to change the verbiage and language to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

Terms we researched and will be implementing in our promotion: 

·      Problem Solving

·      Renovation

·      Development

·      Transformation

·      Ambitious

·      Diversification

·      Enlightening

·      Coaching





= Long-Term Initiatives: =

== Intiative #4: Google Talks and Ted Talks ==

In order to gain more value in the minds of our students, we need exciting and knowledgable events. By hosting a TedTalks, the students would become engaged, the faculty and staff would understand the vitality of implementing innovation and technology in all departments, and UNA would also gain from a rise in education standards and acknowledgement.  

== Initiative #5: Workspaces ==

We struggled mapping out the workspaces available to students 24/7 with the resources to be creative, test ideas, and prototype. Simply, this is unrealistic and unacceptable, especially if we are trying to grow to become more tech savvy. We must provide more workspaces for students to have the power to continually create, research, and design. 

== Initiative #6: Grant Writing for Research/Internships/Entrepreneurs ==

Funding from a regional, state, and federal level is a must in order for us to be successful through this transformation. Technology and advancement is very expensive, and simply, our community is not equipped to pour billions of dollars into our program. We, the students, must use our power to persuade the government and private companies to invest in us, because they will be investing in the future of the state/nation.

Priorities:University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities

2016-02-12T01:28:18Z

Aholbert: Created page with "'''Strategic Goals: ''' '''<span style=..."

'''Strategic Goals: '''

''''''

'''''''''The UNA Fellows Vision:''' To promote Innovation and Entrepreneurship by integrating, incorporating, and accelerating multidisciplinary programs into our university’s culture. 

'''The Triple E Mission''': '''E'''xcite and '''E'''ngage students to '''E'''mbrace Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

= Immediate Initiatives:  =

== Initative #1: Change the Language ==

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we have to change the verbiage and language to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

Terms we researched and will be implementing in our promotion: 

·      Problem Solving

·      Renovation

·      Development

·      Transformation

·      Ambitious

·      Diversification

·      Enlightening

·      Coaching





= Long-Term Initiatives: =

== Intiative #4: Google Talks and Ted Talks ==

In order to gain more value in the minds of our students, we need exciting and knowledgable events. By hosting a TedTalks, the students would become engaged, the faculty and staff would understand the vitality of implementing innovation and technology in all departments, and UNA would also gain from a rise in education standards and acknowledgement.  

== Initiative #5: Workspaces ==

We struggled mapping out the workspaces available to students 24/7 with the resources to be creative, test ideas, and prototype. Simply, this is unrealistic and unacceptable, especially if we are trying to grow to become more tech savvy. We must provide more workspaces for students to have the power to continually create, research, and design. 

== Initiative #6: Grant Writing for Research/Internships/Entrepreneurs ==

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:17:51Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:17:33Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

=== ===

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Ryan_Mason

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

Fellow:Ryan Mason

2016-02-12T01:16:58Z

Aholbert: Created page with "'''Ryan Mason''' <div ng-if="!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.edit.bio" ng-include="'angularjs_bootstrap_templates/users/shared_templates/bio_summary.html'" class="ng-scope" style="..."

'''Ryan Mason'''
<div ng-if="!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.edit.bio" ng-include="'angularjs_bootstrap_templates/users/shared_templates/bio_summary.html'" class="ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">
==== '''University of North Alabama - Professional Finance and Business Administration''' ====

<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" ng-if="!!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.user.bio" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px;"><div compile-always="Ryan Mason is a young aspiring entrepreneur who believes in turning ideas into reality. As a student studying Professional Finance and Business Administration at the University of North Alabama and a former collegiate athlete (football), he has taken part in helping young entrepreneurs of the community bridge the gap from ideas to an actual business. In his free time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and working out. In the future he plans to become the owner of multiple business ventures and give back to the community." content="Ryan Mason is a young aspiring entrepreneur who believes in turning ideas into reality. As a student studying Professional Finance and Business Administration at the University of North Alabama and a former collegiate athlete (football), he has taken part in helping young entrepreneurs of the community bridge the gap from ideas to an actual business. In his free time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and working out. In the future he plans to become the owner of multiple business ventures and give back to the community." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Ryan Mason is a young aspiring entrepreneur who believes in turning ideas into reality. As a student studying Professional Finance and Business Administration at the University of North Alabama and a former collegiate athlete (football), he has taken part in helping young entrepreneurs of the community bridge the gap from ideas to an actual business. In his free time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and working out. In the future he plans to become the owner of multiple business ventures and give back to the community</div></div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" ng-repeat="question in userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.questions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow'''  </div><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I want to be a fellow so that I am able to uplift others as I climb.</div><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" ng-repeat="question in userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.questions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What is your passion'''  </div><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is entrepreneurship.</div><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" ng-repeat="question in userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.questions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What school do you attend''' </div><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">''' '''The University of North Alabama</div></div>

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:13:34Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama]

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

=== ===

== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert]

== Ryan Mason ==

== Grace Piper ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper]

== Nathan Martin ==

[http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin]

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:13:13Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

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=== This page contains the following errors: ===
<div style="font-family:monospace;font-size:12px">error on line 1 at column 1073: attributes construct error </div>
=== Below is a rendering of the page up to the first error. ===
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== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Abigail_Holbert

== Ryan Mason ==

== Grace Piper ==



http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper

== Nathan Martin ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin





Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:12:47Z

Aholbert:

<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Abigail Holbert'''</div> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Senior at the University of North Alabama - Marketing and Innovation Engineering''' </div>
 
<div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Welcome to my profile! I go by Abbie and I am absolutely thrilled to be a candidate for the Innovation Fellows Program. I am a marketing major with a concentration in Professional Sales and an Innovation Engineering minor. I work as an analyst at Blue Print Technical Solutions as well as manage social media for several clients. Thankfully, I graduate in May and I am looking forward to moving out of my small town into a larger city - hopefully Nashville or Louisville. This Fellows Program provides me an opportunity to receive the training and tools I need to fuel my passions in beginning startup incubators and entrepreneurial centers around the country.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion and my desire to become an Innovation Fellow go hand in hand- I want to possess the training and skills necessary to help all students pursue their entrepreneurial ideas and provide structure that allows dreams to become a reality. With this training, I know that I can confidently aid students and entrepreneurs in beginning their business. </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div>
'''What is your passion''' 
<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is to use my networking skills and marketing education to help every student with an entrepreneurial spirit chase their dreams and create their small business start-up. I want to open student incubators and encourage students to chase their dreams while providing tools, support, and funding for their ideas.</div></div>

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:12:24Z

Aholbert:

<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Abigail Holbert'''</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Senior at the University of North Alabama - Marketing and Innovation Engineering''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Welcome to my profile! I go by Abbie and I am absolutely thrilled to be a candidate for the Innovation Fellows Program. I am a marketing major with a concentration in Professional Sales and an Innovation Engineering minor. I work as an analyst at Blue Print Technical Solutions as well as manage social media for several clients. Thankfully, I graduate in May and I am looking forward to moving out of my small town into a larger city - hopefully Nashville or Louisville. This Fellows Program provides me an opportunity to receive the training and tools I need to fuel my passions in beginning startup incubators and entrepreneurial centers around the country.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion and my desire to become an Innovation Fellow go hand in hand- I want to possess the training and skills necessary to help all students pursue their entrepreneurial ideas and provide structure that allows dreams to become a reality. With this training, I know that I can confidently aid students and entrepreneurs in beginning their business. </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What is your passion'''  </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is to use my networking skills and marketing education to help every student with an entrepreneurial spirit chase their dreams and create their small business start-up. I want to open student incubators and encourage students to chase their dreams while providing tools, support, and funding for their ideas.</div></div>

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:11:54Z

Aholbert:

<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Abigail Holbert'''</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Welcome to my profile! I go by Abbie and I am absolutely thrilled to be a candidate for the Innovation Fellows Program. I am a marketing major with a concentration in Professional Sales and an Innovation Engineering minor. I work as an analyst at Blue Print Technical Solutions as well as manage social media for several clients. Thankfully, I graduate in May and I am looking forward to moving out of my small town into a larger city - hopefully Nashville or Louisville. This Fellows Program provides me an opportunity to receive the training and tools I need to fuel my passions in beginning startup incubators and entrepreneurial centers around the country.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion and my desire to become an Innovation Fellow go hand in hand- I want to possess the training and skills necessary to help all students pursue their entrepreneurial ideas and provide structure that allows dreams to become a reality. With this training, I know that I can confidently aid students and entrepreneurs in beginning their business. </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What is your passion'''  </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is to use my networking skills and marketing education to help every student with an entrepreneurial spirit chase their dreams and create their small business start-up. I want to open student incubators and encourage students to chase their dreams while providing tools, support, and funding for their ideas.</div></div>

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:11:39Z

Aholbert:

<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Abigail Holbert'''</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Welcome to my profile! I go by Abbie and I am absolutely thrilled to be a candidate for the Innovation Fellows Program. I am a marketing major with a concentration in Professional Sales and an Innovation Engineering minor. I work as an analyst at Blue Print Technical Solutions as well as manage social media for several clients. Thankfully, I graduate in May and I am looking forward to moving out of my small town into a larger city - hopefully Nashville or Louisville. This Fellows Program provides me an opportunity to receive the training and tools I need to fuel my passions in beginning startup incubators and entrepreneurial centers around the country.</div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow''' </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion and my desire to become an Innovation Fellow go hand in hand- I want to possess the training and skills necessary to help all students pursue their entrepreneurial ideas and provide structure that allows dreams to become a reality. With this training, I know that I can confidently aid students and entrepreneurs in beginning their business. </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">'''What is your passion'''  </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is to use my networking skills and marketing education to help every student with an entrepreneurial spirit chase their dreams and create their small business start-up. I want to open student incubators and encourage students to chase their dreams while providing tools, support, and funding for their ideas.</div></div>

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:11:15Z

Aholbert:

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:10:46Z

Aholbert:

<div class="row-fluid ng-scope" ng-repeat="question in userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.questions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow My passion and my desire to become an Innovation Fellow go hand in hand- I want to possess the training and skills necessary to help all students pursue their entrepreneurial ideas and provide structure that allows dreams to become a reality. With this training, I know that I can confidently aid students and entrepreneurs in beginning their business. 

</div></div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" ng-repeat="question in userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.questions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">What is your passion My passion is to use my networking skills and marketing education to help every student with an entrepreneurial spirit chase their dreams and create their small business start-up. I want to open student incubators and encourage students to chase their dreams while providing tools, support, and funding for their ideas.</div></div>

Fellow:Abigail Holbert

2016-02-12T01:10:13Z

Aholbert: Created page with "<parsererror style="display: block; white-space: pre; border: 2px solid #c77; padding: 0 1em 0 1em; margin: 1em; background-color: #fdd; color: black"> === This page contains ..."

<parsererror style="display: block; white-space: pre; border: 2px solid #c77; padding: 0 1em 0 1em; margin: 1em; background-color: #fdd; color: black">
=== This page contains the following errors: ===
<div style="font-family:monospace;font-size:12px">error on line 1 at column 1398: attributes construct error </div>
=== Below is a rendering of the page up to the first error. ===
</parsererror>
==== Abigail Holbert ====

==== '''Senior at University of North Alabama - Singer, Marketer, Soon-to-be-Graduate''' ====

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:08:38Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

<parsererror style="display: block; white-space: pre; border: 2px solid #c77; padding: 0 1em 0 1em; margin: 1em; background-color: #fdd; color: black">
=== This page contains the following errors: ===
<div style="font-family:monospace;font-size:12px">error on line 1 at column 1073: attributes construct error </div>
=== Below is a rendering of the page up to the first error. ===
</parsererror>
== '''Abigail Holbert''' ==

''' '''

==== ''''''Senior at University of North Alabama - Singer, Marketer, Soon-to-be-Graduate'''''' ====

''''''

== Ryan Mason ==

== Grace Piper ==



http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper

== Nathan Martin ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin





Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T01:01:02Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

== Abigail Holbert ==

== Ryan Mason ==

== Grace Piper ==



http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Grace_Piper

== Nathan Martin ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin





Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

Fellow:Grace Piper

2016-02-12T01:00:29Z

Aholbert: Created page with "=== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Biology/Pre-medicine''' === <div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" ng-if="!!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.user.bio" style="margin: 0px..."

=== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Biology/Pre-medicine''' ===
<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" ng-if="!!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.user.bio" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><div compile-always="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." content="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div compile-always="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." content="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school.</div><div compile-always="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." content="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div>
=== Why do you want to be a University Innovation Fellow  ===
<div compile-always="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." content="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div compile-always="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." content="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I want to be an Innovation Fellow because I would like to collaborate with other individuals that want to make a difference.</div><div compile-always="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." content="Grace Piper is originally from Indiana. She is a professional biology/pre-medicine student at the University of North Alabama. She is apart of the women's soccer team there as well. The heart of her interests including volunteering especially helping the homeless. They have a special place in her heart. In her free time she enjoys hiking, boating, exploring nature, and exercising. She hopes to obtain a professional biology degree and attend medical school." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </div><div class="row-fluid ng-scope" ng-repeat="question in userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.questions" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; width: 453.938px;">
=== What is your passion  ===
<div ng-hide="$root.isUserVisitorForView && !question.answer" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">My passion is helping the homeless and anyone who is in need.</div></div></div>

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:58:50Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

== Abigail Holbert ==

== Ryan Mason ==

== Grace Piper ==

== Nathan Martin ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/Nathan_Martin





Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

Fellow:Nathan Martin

2016-02-12T00:57:50Z

Aholbert: Created page with "'''Nathan Martin''' <div ng-if="!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.edit.bio" ng-include="'angularjs_bootstrap_templates/users/shared_templates/bio_summary.html'" class="ng-scope" sty..."

'''Nathan Martin'''

<div ng-if="!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.edit.bio" ng-include="'angularjs_bootstrap_templates/users/shared_templates/bio_summary.html'" class="ng-scope" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">
==== '''University of North Alabama- Professional Management, Minor Innovation Engineering''' ====

<div class="pad-right-30 ng-scope" ng-if="!!userCtrl.ProfileUserModel.user.bio" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 30px 0px 0px;"><div compile-always="Nathan Martin is from Tuscumbia, AL where he attended Deshler Highschool. He is the small business owner of Grassmasters. Nathan's main two interest are entrepreneurship and innovation. His hobbies are getting outdoors and watching Alabama football." content="Nathan Martin is from Tuscumbia, AL where he attended Deshler Highschool. He is the small business owner of Grassmasters. Nathan's main two interest are entrepreneurship and innovation. His hobbies are getting outdoors and watching Alabama football." expander-cutoff="105" oe-expander="" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Nathan Martin is from Tuscumbia, AL where he attended Deshler Highschool. He is the small business owner of Grassmasters. Nathan's main two interests are entrepreneurship and innovation. His hobbies are getting outdoors and watching Alabama football. Nathan is a spokesperson for the Generator, as well as an active team member on the UNA Fishing Team. He enjoys intramural sports as well, and is currently a captain for his team!</div></div></div>

[[Category:StudentContributors|n]].

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:50:17Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

== University of North Alabama:  ==

http://universityinnovation.org/wiki/University_of_North_Alabama

== University of North Alabama Strategic Priorities: ==

== Abigail Holbert ==

== Ryan Mason ==

== Grace Piper ==

== Nathan Martin ==







Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:48:01Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

= Related Links =

Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert Grace Piper Nathan Martin Ryan Mason

[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:44:51Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

Comments by: 
[[Category:StudentContributors|a]]

Abigail Holbert
[[Category:StudentContributors|g]]
Grace Piper
[[Category:StudentContributors|n]]
Nathan Martin
[[Category:StudentContributors|r]]
Ryan Mason

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:39:25Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital.

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths.

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]





Comments by: 

Abigail Holbert

Grace Piper

Nathan Martin

Ryan Mason

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:37:36Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital. 

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths. 

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:

== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

[http://alabamalaunchpad.com/ http://alabamalaunchpad.com/]

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

[http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/ http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/]

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

[http://www.shoalschamber.com http://www.shoalschamber.com]

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:36:35Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

The University of North Alabama is a liberal arts college in one of the oldest and most historic cities in the state. The school was foudned on a basis of education and nursing and has grown into a culture of arts, entrepreneurship, and a wide array of multidisciplinary studies. Last year, the College of Business brought Innovation Engineering onto campus, transforming the community and department into a place where cultivating entrepreneurship and STEM programs is vital. 

Four students were chosen to pursue the Innovation Fellows Candidacy Program last Fall. We work alongside a faculty group whose aim is to spread Innovation Engineering and Entrepreneurship into all departments as well as bring Engineering as a program onto campus. Our job is to get students excited and informed about these changes, and to educate them on the vitality that skills of entrepreneurship and innovation holds in their majors and career paths. 

While surveying, students informed us that they didn’t believe their majors needed entrepreneurship or innovation, because it wasn’t a business department and they didn’t want to own a business. First, we had to change the verbiage to get students to understand that this topic is not only relevant, but absolutely VITAL for their majors, departments, and careers, community and the university.

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

Though our community and faculty is excited and engaged about bringing these changes to UNA, the students are disconnected, lacking motivation or knowledge in the process, terms, importance, or relevance. During our team meeting, the candidates analyzed a SWOT analysis of the culture at UNA. We found the following Strengths, Weakenesses, Opportunities, and Threats:



== Strengths:  ==

-University Leadership: Our students have ample support and opportunity to create or grow organizations with unlimited resources. We push for students to become involved in some way, and over half of our students are involved in two or more organizations on campus. We also have a fair Student Allocations system with processes in place to provide decent funding to all organizations. 

-Community Leadership: The Shoals Entrepreneurial Center, alongside the Generator, the Chamber of Commerce, and other local companies long to see students succeed. The environment of Florence is a perfect climate for new entrepreneurs, and the city strives on fulfilling dreams and passions. 

-Collaborative Spirit/Positivity: We have found that the community and students, though possibly unknowledgable, is still welcoming to these ideals and change. We have high spirits for new programs and abundant resources as well. 

-Diversification: UNA has one of the largest international programs, as well as one of the most variable, student bases in the state. Our diversity allows for a better culture for innovation, as new perspectives and behaviors can be found within the community. 

 

== Weaknesses: ==

-Weak presence: From our research, Innovation and Engineering and STEM is not only missing on campus, but we also have a disconnected view of its importance to the community. Many of the students believe the arts is enough and cannot see a need for analytical, technical communication. 

-Misunderstood: We need to change language/verbiage of Entrepreneurship and Innovation in order to relate to students. Right now, it is a confusing and daunting term. 

 

== Opportunities: ==

-Community: Florence and the Shoals are now primed up for innovation and entrepreneurship through new scholarships, investors, media, and a major increase of local businesses gaining attention from a national and international market. 

-Employment for IE: All around the Florence/Huntsville area, engineering and analytics mixed with a business and innovation background is needed and desired. Jobs are beginning to hire again in our area, and having these skill sets is greatly benefitting both UNA and the community. 

-Mane Capital Fund: Finally, UNA has a large and sustainable fund for entrepreneurship and capital for students. This fund holds a board of directiors and officers that is spreading the word of innovation and entrepreneurship and our program everywhere they go. 

 

== Threats: ==

-Running out of capital: Though it is short-term sustainable, we must continue to find investors and add value for people to invest in this idea, or we will lose all funding. 

-Lack of resources (technology): Due to a lacking technological presence, we are behind other large cities in the form of technology, which can hinder our innovation. We need the  skills in order to become a greater university. 

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =



Sadly, this is a section that we are missing ENTIRELY. However, our team and the faculty recognizes this, and we are on our way to bring in decision makers, innovators, idea makers, and funders into this. 

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

As our canvas below includes, we have numerous regional and local economic development efforts around the Shoals. Several include: 

== - Alabama Launchpad ==

Alabama Launchpad helps high growth companies start, stay and grow in Alabama while supporting, advocating, and recognizing entrepreneurship statewide. Alabama Launchpad is a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.

http://alabamalaunchpad.com/

== -Shoals Entrepreneurial Center ==

We are a business incubator. That means we work with start-up and emerging companies to help them successfully launch and grow. As a business incubator, we offer shared space, equipment and resources in a controlled-overhead environment. Because those costs are controlled, start-up businesses can allocate more of their limited resources to other things that will help the business grow.

Business incubation is a proven tool for regional economic growth. Our unique cluster of commercial space, business counseling and technical assistance, and wide-ranging network of partners can provide a critical framework to help entrepreneurs meet their business goals. We continually look for opportunities to expand and strengthen our services, facilities, and other resources. Our business clients continue to expand and grow, which creates a great driver for the SEC’s work. We hope that you will find our website helpful and look forward to working with you to expand economic opportunities.

The SEC has proven to be a major part of the Shoals area economic development team. Since 1992, the SEC incubator network has incubated more than 150 businesses and created more than 1,500 jobs. A study conducted by the University of North Alabama School of Business indicates the SEC clients and graduates provide the annual following economic impact:
<ul style="margin: 0em 1em 1em 3em; padding: 0px; list-style: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: freight-sans-pro, Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px;">
<li>Expenditure effect of $98 million for the Shoals Economy</li>
<li>Sales tax impact of $5.3 million</li>
<li>Alabama State Income Tax of $2.01 million</li>
</ul>

http://www.shoalsec.com/about-us/

== -College of Business ==

Innovation Engineering is a groundbreaking program that provides a systematic approach to innovation. The department has worked dilligently to provide students with a business background every opportunity for internships and research in the fields of innovation and entreprenuership. 

== -Shoals Chamber of Commerce ==

Our Chamber is the organization of influence that enables Shoals area citizens to achieve a higher standard of living and a better quality of life through the economic successes of its members. As a Chamber member, you will be associated with more than 1,000 other Shoals Area businesses employing more than 45,000 people. The Shoals Chamber is one of the TOP 10 largest Chambers of Commerce in Alabama. The majority of our membership is small business with approximately 90% having 50 or fewer employees - and nearly 67% with 15 employees or less. General direction and policy are set by a 31 member Board of Directors elected by, and responsible to, the membership. Day-to-day operations are carried out by a full-time staff of professionals. They coordinate the efforts of the many volunteer workers within the the Chamber. The volunteer members work through numerous committees in these major departments: Education and Workforce Readiness, Business Growth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Policy, Advocacy and Activism and Investor Relations and Marketing.

http://www.shoalschamber.com

== ==

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:26:52Z

Aholbert:

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:25:03Z

Aholbert: The Overview of the University of North Alabama

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:11:13Z

Aholbert:

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:04:21Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:03:54Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:

[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:03:38Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

''''''With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

= Landscape Canvas =

[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:03:18Z

Aholbert:

= Overview =

= Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

= Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function =

= Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration =

''''''With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:[http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html]

= Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort =

= Landscape Canvas =

''''''[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:02:32Z

Aholbert:

= '''Overview''' =

= ''''''Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship''' ''' =

= ''''''Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship''' ''' =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= ''''''Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function''' ''' =

= ''''''Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration''' ''' =

''''''With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html

= ''''''Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort'''''' =

= ''''''Landscape Canvas'''''' =

''''''[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

School:University of North Alabama

2016-02-12T00:02:19Z

Aholbert: Created page with "= '''Overview ''' = = ''''''Promotin..."

= '''Overview ''' =

= ''''''Promoting Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship''' ''' =

= ''''''Encouraging Faculty Innovation and Entrepreneurship''' ''' =

The backing of the faculty at UNA is very prevalent. The faculty and staff are the whole reason we are able to have the limited amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that we do have. They are working hand and hand with us to increase the amount of innovation and entrepreneurship that is on our campus. They are bringing in different start-ups and programs to help increase the awareness of the importance. The faculty are deep in planning to implement STEM on our campus. They are also trying to involve innovation and entrepreneurship into all majors, internships, and careers. The staff and faculty here at UNA are very supportive and understand the importance of having innovation and entrepreneurship on campus and the positive impact it can have on the student’s life and careers.

= ''''''Actively Supporting the University Technology Transfer Function''' ''' =

= ''''''Facilitating University-Industry Collaboration''' ''' =

''''''With the help of the University of North Alabama and substantial leaders in the area, our community has been able to create and maintain key centers such as the Generator and the Entrepreneurial Center. The Generator is UNA’s very own student incubator center that will be used to assist aspiring students with business startups. The Entrepreneur Center will be used to further facilitate un-peraralled industry collaboration. With these resources combined we will have a full arsenal of resources at our fingertips to further promote the growth of UNA.

Please refer to this link for more information on the Generator:http://www.timesdaily.com/news/education/generator-creates-collaborative-environment-for-student-business-makers/article_60e6dff2-fef7-52eb-9acc-ef69aa84e270.html

= ''''''Engaging with Regional and Local Economic Development Effort'''''' =

= ''''''Landscape Canvas'''''' =

''''''[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1 https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1A05FO9UYfI_I4n4rTW5I8IU7LIq-X3QXPkEChxm-5qo/edit#gid=1]

Resource:How to use your UIF skills to become a badass in any industry

2016-01-19T19:41:15Z

Aholbert:

Overview and Outline

The University Innovation Fellows Program teaches a curriculum that is widely applicable beyond college and to a variety of industries and job titles. The skills developed during the training sessions in the realms of changing how one approaches and thinks about a problem and then what connections can be made to solve that problem can truly create lasting positive influence over a student's mindset.

Anyone who sticks to and applies the skills learned during their time training in the University Innovation Fellows Program can be a badass. As Ryan Phillips, a current Program Manager at Microsoft and former University Innovation Fellow, tells us, "The UIF Program allowed me to come into my new job, understand what was expected of me and learn how the organization worked, and then be able to sit at tables with high-level employees, even as a new hire." Ryan says skills he learned in the program directly influence how he acts today, even if he uses said skills in a less structed manner. He says design thinking reinforced how important it is for him to see problems with products from a customer's perspective and to empathize, which he believes is invaluable in product innovation and production. He has also found he has utilized a landscape canvas every day since he began. Even if he is not explicitly writing it out, Ryan always is thinking what connections can be made, what connections are missing, and now how can we make them, when addressing problems, i.e. becoming intimately familiar with and readdressing his in-house resources that are available to him and his team to be used to solve their problems.

Skills from UIF that are applicable

-List out different skills and core skills UIF offers.

-How they benefit companies Application and Implementation

-How to apply what you have learned

-Show what impact UIF fellows have had in variety of fields.

''' Advice on Achieving the Rank of Badass in Your Industry'''

''''''

'''"I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say today will teach me anything. So if I'm going to learn, I must do it by listening."'''

'''-''Larry King'''''

One of the biggest challenges we face as innovators, entrepreneurs, and designers is our attitudes. We are taught to let crticism to roll off our backs, to not pay attention to the "haters," but rather, to stay focused and achieve what you're aiming for. However, to become a badass in any indsutry - and to stay a badass - requires taking others' perspectives into consideration, slowing down and listening to peers and teachers, and achieving a role of humility in your industry. Note that humility does not mean passiveness. Instead, it requires an attitude of understanding, application, and thinking of yourself as an equal to your associates.

A common misconception of group work and projects includes the "Conquer and Divide" mentality. In order to ensure that all members of a team are working together to achieve a goal, many groups tend to contribute their ideas, but fail to grasp full responsbility for the project. We usually split the ownership or the project, viewing it as a group assignment rather than a unique opportunity. Without owning and dominating in your work, there is no possbility to fully impact a company, organization, or idea in your industry.

Finally, the most challenging aspect of becoming a badass is finding the perfect pathway of communication to others about the importance of innovation in every organization. The term "innovation" is not widely accepted or understood, and in many circumstances confuse or turn off your listener. To truly become a badass in your industry, you must untap the language your peers speak, find the synonyms that are most impactful to your audience, and find the right communication method to instill the importance of thinking differently. You must also seek out the individuals in your field with the most power to influence and implement change in your industry. By creating the best avenue of communication for innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, you will be able to achieve your badass status, and even begin to promote other badass thinkers around you.

[[Category:Spinout]]

Resource:How to use your UIF skills to become a badass in any industry

2016-01-19T19:39:17Z

Aholbert:

Overview and Outline

The University Innovation Fellows Program teaches a curriculum that is widely applicable beyond college and to a variety of industries and job titles. The skills developed during the training sessions in the realms of changing how one approaches and thinks about a problem and then what connections can be made to solve that problem can truly create lasting positive influence over a student's mindset.

Anyone who sticks to and applies the skills learned during their time training in the University Innovation Fellows Program can be a badass. As Ryan Phillips, a current Program Manager at Microsoft and former University Innovation Fellow, tells us, "The UIF Program allowed me to come into my new job, understand what was expected of me and learn how the organization worked, and then be able to sit at tables with high-level employees, even as a new hire." Ryan says skills he learned in the program directly influence how he acts today, even if he uses said skills in a less structed manner. He says design thinking reinforced how important it is for him to see problems with products from a customer's perspective and to empathize, which he believes is invaluable in product innovation and production. He has also found he has utilized a landscape canvas every day since he began. Even if he is not explicitly writing it out, Ryan always is thinking what connections can be made, what connections are missing, and now how can we make them, when addressing problems, i.e. becoming intimately familiar with and readdressing his in-house resources that are available to him and his team to be used to solve their problems.

Skills from UIF that are applicable

-List out different skills and core skills UIF offers.

-How they benefit companies Application and Implementation

-How to apply what you have learned

-Show what impact UIF fellows have had in variety of fields.

 '''Advice on Achieving the Rank of Badass in Your Industry'''

"I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say today will teach me anything. So if I'm going to learn, I must do it by listening."

-''Larry King''

One of the biggest challenges we face as innovators, entrepreneurs, and designers is our attitudes. We are taught to let crticism to roll off our backs, to not pay attention to the "haters," but rather, to stay focused and achieve what you're aiming for. However, to become a badass in any indsutry - and to stay a badass - requires taking others' perspectives into consideration, slowing down and listening to peers and teachers, and achieving a role of humility in your industry. Note that humility does not mean passiveness. Instead, it requires an attitude of understanding, application, and thinking of yourself as an equal to your associates.

A common misconception of group work and projects includes the "Conquer and Divide" mentality. In order to ensure that all members of a team are working together to achieve a goal, many groups tend to contribute their ideas, but fail to grasp full responsbility for the project. We usually split the ownership or the project, viewing it as a group assignment rather than a unique opportunity. Without owning and dominating in your work, there is no possbility to fully impact a company, organization, or idea in your industry.

Finally, the most challenging aspect of becoming a badass is finding the perfect pathway of communication to others about the importance of innovation in every organization. The term "innovation" is not widely accepted or understood, and in many circumstances confuse or turn off your listener. To truly become a badass in your industry, you must untap the language your peers speak, find the synonyms that are most impactful to your audience, and find the right communication method to instill the importance of thinking differently. You must also seek out the individuals in your field with the most power to influence and implement change in your industry. By creating the best avenue of communication for innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, you will be able to achieve your badass status, and even begin to promote other badass thinkers around you.

[[Category:Spinout]]

Resource:How to use your UIF skills to become a badass in any industry

2016-01-19T19:38:53Z

Aholbert:

Overview and Outline

The University Innovation Fellows Program teaches a curriculum that is widely applicable beyond college and to a variety of industries and job titles. The skills developed during the training sessions in the realms of changing how one approaches and thinks about a problem and then what connections can be made to solve that problem can truly create lasting positive influence over a student's mindset.

Anyone who sticks to and applies the skills learned during their time training in the University Innovation Fellows Program can be a badass. As Ryan Phillips, a current Program Manager at Microsoft and former University Innovation Fellow, tells us, "The UIF Program allowed me to come into my new job, understand what was expected of me and learn how the organization worked, and then be able to sit at tables with high-level employees, even as a new hire." Ryan says skills he learned in the program directly influence how he acts today, even if he uses said skills in a less structed manner. He says design thinking reinforced how important it is for him to see problems with products from a customer's perspective and to empathize, which he believes is invaluable in product innovation and production. He has also found he has utilized a landscape canvas every day since he began. Even if he is not explicitly writing it out, Ryan always is thinking what connections can be made, what connections are missing, and now how can we make them, when addressing problems, i.e. becoming intimately familiar with and readdressing his in-house resources that are available to him and his team to be used to solve their problems.

Skills from UIF that are applicable

-List out different skills and core skills UIF offers.

-How they benefit companies Application and Implementation

-How to apply what you have learned

-Show what impact UIF fellows have had in variety of fields.

 '''Advice on Achieving the Rank of Badass in Your Industry'''

"I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say today will teach me anything. So if I'm going to learn, I must do it by listening."

-''Larry King''

One of the biggest challenges we face as innovators, entrepreneurs, and designers is our attitudes. We are taught to let crticism to roll off our backs, to not pay attention to the "haters," but rather, to stay focused and achieve what you're aiming for. However, to become a badass in any indsutry - and to stay a badass - requires taking others' perspectives into consideration, slowing down and listening to peers and teachers, and achieving a role of humility in your industry. Note that humility does not mean passiveness. Instead, it requires an attitude of understanding, application, and thinking of yourself as an equal to your associates.

A common misconception of group work and projects includes the "Conquer and Divide" mentality. In order to ensure that all members of a team are working together to achieve a goal, many groups tend to contribute their ideas, but fail to grasp full responsbility for the project. We usually split the ownership or the project, viewing it as a group assignment rather than a unique opportunity. Without owning and dominating in your work, there is no possbility to fully impact a company, organization, or idea in your industry.

Finally, the most challenging aspect of becoming a badass is finding the perfect pathway of communication to others about the importance of innovation in every organization. The term "innovation" is not widely accepted or understood, and in many circumstances confuse or turn off your listener. To truly become a badass in your industry, you must untap the language your peers speak, find the synonyms that are most impactful to your audience, and find the right communication method to instill the importance of thinking differently. You must also seek out the individuals in your field with the most power to influence and implement change in your industry. By creating the best avenue of communication for innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, you will be able to achieve your badass status, and even begin to promote other badass thinkers around you.

[[Category:Spinout]]

Resource:How to use your UIF skills to become a badass in any industry

2016-01-18T20:39:00Z

Aholbert:

Overview and Outline

-Identify steps, where I wanna be a badass, etc.

-List out examples of this dude at MS and whatnot. Skills from UIF that are applicable

-List out different skills and core skills UIF offers.

-How they benefit companies Application and Implementation

-How to apply what you have learned

-Show what impact UIF fellows have had in variety of fields.

 '''Advice on Achieving the Rank of Badass in Your Industry'''

'''"I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say today will teach me anything. So if I'm going to learn, I must do it by listening."'''

'''-''Larry King'''''

'''One of the biggest challenges we face as innovators, entrepreneurs, and designers is our attitudes. We are taught to let crticism to roll off our backs, to not pay attention to the "haters," but rather, to stay focused and achieve what you're aiming for. However, to become a badass in any indsutry - and to stay a badass - requires taking others' perspectives into consideration, slowing down and listening to peers and teachers, and achieving a role of humility in your industry. Note that humility does not mean passiveness. Instead, it requires an attitude of understanding, application, and thinking of yourself as an equal to your associates.'''

'''A common misconception of group work and projects includes the "Conquer and Divide" mentality. In order to ensure that all members of a team are working together to achieve a goal, many groups tend to contribute their ideas, but fail to grasp full responsbility for the project. We usually split the ownership or the project, viewing it as a group assignment rather than a unique opportunity. Without owning and dominating in your work, there is no possbility to fully impact a company, organization, or idea in your industry.'''

'''Finally, the most challenging aspect of becoming a badass is finding the perfect pathway of communication to others about the importance of innovation in every organization. The term "innovation" is not widely accepted or understood, and in many circumstances confuse or turn off your listener. To truly become a badass in your industry, you must untap the language your peers speak, find the synonyms that are most impactful to your audience, and find the right communication method to instill the importance of thinking differently. You must also seek out the individuals in your field with the most power to influence and implement change in your industry. By creating the best avenue of communication for innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, you will be able to achieve your badass status, and even begin to promote other badass thinkers around you.'''

[[Category:Spinout]]