Changes

Through the [http://www2.furman.edu/sites/internship/FURMANADVANTAGE/Pages/default.aspx Furman Advantage ]program, many sophomores, juniors and seniors are engaging in internships that introduce them to innovation, entrepreneurship and creative practice. In addition, student organizations like [https://www.facebook.com/furmancreative Furman Creative Collaborative] are planting seeds for a movement of entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity on campus by hosting design thinking workshops and planning events like TEDxFurmanU and 3 Day Startup.

While assessing the innovation ecosystem on campus, students pointed towards peers that were creating apps, launching social ventures and starting companies in their dorm rooms. When asked to comment on the entrepreneurial community on campus, these students mentioned that they aren’t surrounded with peers and mentors that can nurture their ideas and grow them to scale. At the same time, students in the art and business departments are creating venture concepts for class that are viable and compelling, but need further development. Since students have no place to take their projects after the class ends, many plateau or are terminated due to lack of time, committment and support.  These students mentioned that a network of peer collaborators was desired, along with access to capital, alumni mentors and dedicated time and space for venture development. Others mentioned that they would like see a student incubator, a student venture fund and start-up training programs take root on campus in the years ahead.