Ivy Tech Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Entrepreneurship
Launch Your Business with Us.
What You'll Learn
Start or advance your entrepreneurial journey here!
The entrepreneurship program at Ivy Tech Community College is meticulously designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to become successful entrepreneurs in a rapidly changing business landscape. This program emphasizes ecosystem engagement, networking, design thinking, and real-world application. Students will explore various aspects of entrepreneurship, including entrepreneurial mindset, lean marketing, enterprise development, financial foundations, new venture development/launch, and small business operations. The program is structured to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, encouraging students to develop unique business ideas and solutions. With a focus on practical aspects of entrepreneurship, the program aims to prepare students for the real-world challenges of starting and managing a business. With the generous gift from the Garatoni-Smith Family Foundation and leveraging the Regional Innovation and Startup Education (RISE) model, the school seeks to elevate and empower Indiana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In the program, students will:
Validate problems, solutions, and business ideas, including the ability to assess the feasibility and potential of a business idea.
Conduct effective market research, identify target sectors, and understand customer needs through validation interviews and surveys.
Create and evaluate effective business models using the Business Model Canvas and Lean Canvas.
Create and refine a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP), incorporating feedback from potential users and stakeholders to ensure product-market fit.
Craft and deliver compelling pitches communicating a business's problem and solution to potential investors or stakeholders.
Develop a strong brand identity and marketing plan for a new venture.
Develop financial strategies for a startup, including budgeting, fundraising, and resource allocation to ensure financial sustainability.
Understand and navigate the legal aspects of business ownership, including contract law, legal challenges, and appropriate times to seek legal counsel.
Create and implement a comprehensive growth and development action plan for an established business, considering market trends and organizational needs.
Career Options
Starting a business is one of many paths for entrepreneurship graduates! Pursuing entrepreneurship education offers valuable skills and experience that can help develop an entrepreneurial mindset and open up a wide array of fulfilling and diverse career opportunities. In addition to being a startup founder, small business owner, or a nonprofit leader, here are the top five career options for individuals in this field:
Business Development Associate
Operations Support
Program Coordinator
Assistant Product Manager
Project Coordinator
WHY IVY TECH?
Affordable access to entrepreneurial education.
Financial aid and pre-seed funding opportunities.
Focus on practical skills and hands-on learning.
Personalized guidance and real-world insights from instructors.
Connections with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem through a robust network of guest speakers, industry connections, mentors, and alumni.
Opportunity for business showcase, business tours, networking events, and pitch competitions.
Check out the Success Stories at the Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP TOOLKIT
Leverage our Toolkit to access information related to educational opportunities, books, podcasts, competitions, certifications, tools, platforms, resources, blogs, forums, volunteering, freelancing, events, and professional associations in Entrepreneurship.
You are naturally inclined towards innovation and are keenly interested in starting your own business. The entrepreneurship courses in the degree will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to transform your ideas into viable business ventures.
You value versatility and wish to keep your career options open. The statewide electives from other programs offered in this degree will allow you to tailor your education to suit specific interests or emerging market trends, making you an adaptable professional capable of thriving in various business environments.
You aim to take leadership roles and significantly impact your industry or community. This includes aspiring entrepreneurs who want to launch their own startups or those looking to contribute to economic development through entrepreneurial endeavors.
You are strongly interested in developing new ideas, creating businesses, and driving innovation. This passion is crucial for entrepreneurship, as the technical certificate program will offer in-depth knowledge and practical skills in starting and managing new ventures.
You are keen on broadening your skill set. The Technical Certificate combines the core tenets of entrepreneurship with the flexibility to explore areas outside their specific field through statewide electives. This suits those who appreciate interdisciplinary learning and want to acquire diverse skills essential to the modern business landscape.
You aim to take up leadership roles in innovative or growth-oriented companies. The curriculum is designed to equip learners with the skills to drive innovation and lead dynamic teams in a rapidly changing business environment.
You are keen on starting your own business or have a startup idea you want to develop. This certificate is particularly beneficial for those looking to gain practical insights into new venture development and launch, offering hands-on experience in enterprise development.
You're a current Ivy Tech student enrolled in another program looking for support in starting a business in your areas of interest or expertise.
You are naturally inclined towards innovation and are keenly interested in starting your own business. The entrepreneurship courses in the degree will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to transform your ideas into viable business ventures.
You value versatility and wish to keep your career options open. The statewide electives from other programs offered in this degree will allow you to tailor your education to suit specific interests or emerging market trends, making you an adaptable professional capable of thriving in various business environments.
You aim to take leadership roles and significantly impact your industry or community. This includes aspiring entrepreneurs who want to launch their own startups or those looking to contribute to economic development through entrepreneurial endeavors.
You are strongly interested in developing new ideas, creating businesses, and driving innovation. This passion is crucial for entrepreneurship, as the technical certificate program will offer in-depth knowledge and practical skills in starting and managing new ventures.
You are keen on broadening your skill set. The Technical Certificate combines the core tenets of entrepreneurship with the flexibility to explore areas outside their specific field through statewide electives. This suits those who appreciate interdisciplinary learning and want to acquire diverse skills essential to the modern business landscape.
You aim to take up leadership roles in innovative or growth-oriented companies. The curriculum is designed to equip learners with the skills to drive innovation and lead dynamic teams in a rapidly changing business environment.
You are keen on starting your own business or have a startup idea you want to develop. This certificate is particularly beneficial for those looking to gain practical insights into new venture development and launch, offering hands-on experience in enterprise development.
You're a current Ivy Tech student enrolled in another program looking for support in starting a business in your areas of interest or expertise.
Note: Program availability varies by location and not all program tracks are offered at each campus/location.
Entrepreneurial Affiliates
Associate Degree – Career-Ready Degree
The AAS in Entrepreneurship caters to individuals with a natural inclination toward innovation and a strong desire to start their businesses. The entrepreneurship courses embedded in the program equip students with the essential knowledge and skills to turn their ideas into successful business ventures. If you value versatility and want to keep your career options open, the statewide electives from other programs allow you to customize your education, making you an adaptable professional capable of thriving in diverse business environments. Whether you aspire to take leadership roles, launch your startup, or contribute to economic development through entrepreneurial endeavors, this degree prepares you to make a significant impact on your industry or community.
Long-Term Certificate
known as a Technical Certificate (TC)
Our Technical Certificate (TC) program is tailored for individuals driven by a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. It provides comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to transform ideas into successful ventures. The program uniquely combines core entrepreneurship principles with the flexibility to explore diverse areas through statewide electives, catering to those who value interdisciplinary learning. Whether you aspire to broaden your skill set or aim for leadership roles in innovative companies, our curriculum is designed to equip you with the expertise to drive innovation and lead dynamic teams in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Elevate your potential and make a lasting impact in the world of business and innovation.
Short-Term Certificate
known as a Certificate (CT)
The Entrepreneurship Certificate (CT) is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing practical insights and hands-on experience in new venture development and launch. Whether you're keen on starting your own business or have a startup idea to develop, this program is designed to equip you with the skills needed for enterprise development. Additionally, if you're a current Ivy Tech student enrolled in another program seeking support to start a business in your areas of interest or expertise, this certificate offers valuable assistance in turning your entrepreneurial aspirations into reality.
It's important to understand that entrepreneurship requires a unique blend of passion, resilience, grit, and adaptability. Entrepreneurs must be comfortable with uncertainty and risk and develop the ability to persist in facing challenges. This path often involves long hours, significant personal and financial investment, and the capacity to learn from failures. It's ideal for those driven by a desire to innovate, lead, and create something of their own. Ultimately, whether entrepreneurship is right depends on your personal characteristics, life situation, and professional goals. It's crucial to conduct a thorough self-assessment and seek advice from experienced entrepreneurs before deciding. Remember, entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination.
Sound Like You?
If you identify with the traits above, entrepreneurship may be the path for you! Take the next step to get started or speak with your local advisor to learn more.
Students will demonstrate readiness in developmental English and non-STEM developmental Math.
No Expiration of Credits
There is no expiration date for course credits that were earned in previous years from Ivy Tech Community College.
Transfer Credit for Prerequisite Courses
Prerequisite courses completed at colleges other than Ivy Tech will only be considered for general education selection points if transfer credit has been awarded and courses appear on the Ivy Tech transcript prior to the application deadline.
TR grades are not recognized by the online application. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that transfer credit has been awarded and that TR grades are updated to transfer letter grades (TA, TB, TC) on their Ivy Tech transcript.
It is recommended that college transcripts be submitted to the Registrar’s office for evaluation and transfer credit at least four weeks prior to the program application deadline to ensure adequate time for processing.
Entrepreneurship Courses
Descriptions of Entrepreneurship courses can be found in our online course catalog. View required classes and course descriptions for:
See when specific courses will be offered by searching our course list in Schedule Builder. First, select the semester you’re looking for and then enter the name of the course in the search bar.
If you’re a current student, upcoming courses are easy to find in Schedule Builder in MyIvy.
Applying to Ivy Tech is Free & Easy
The Ivy Tech application is free and easy—you don’t need a certain test score, GPA, or class rank to get started at Ivy Tech. Applying takes about 10-15 minutes and can be completed entirely online.
No Application Deadlines
Ivy Tech does not have a deadline for admission. Our eight-week class sessions start throughout the year—in January, March, June, August, and October—and there is no hard deadline for applying for any of the start dates. It's important, though, to apply early enough that you'll be able to complete all the degree planning, financial aid, and registration activities that need to happen before your first day. We recommend you apply about one month before you intend to start classes. See upcoming start dates
STEPS TO APPLY
(1) Apply to Ivy Tech
If you’ve never applied to Ivy Tech Community College before (or if it’s been two years since you last attended classes here), your first step is to apply to Ivy Tech. You can apply online or in person. To apply in person, reach out to your local admissions team and arrange a meeting. Or, stop by any campus on any Tuesday for Tuesdays@TheTech to receive personal assistance with applying and registering for classes.
After you submit your application, you'll be asked to upload documentation—such as SAT/ACT/PSAT scores or high school and college transcripts—that can assess your readiness for college-level coursework and help us make sure you are taking classes that are the right fit for you. How to upload assessment documents
If you don't have your scores or transcripts at your fingertips, don’t worry. Go ahead and submit your application. You can go back to upload assessment documents at any time until the end of the term for which you applied.
(3) Look for a Confirmation Email
Once your application is processed, you will receive a confirmation email at the email address provided on your application. Typically the email will arrive within 1-2 business days of submission, but during peak processing periods (April-June) could take up to 5-10 business days.
The email will contain instructions on how to register for classes, as well as important information regarding your Ivy Tech student portal (MyIvy account), tuition, payment options, and more.
(4) Create an Account in MyIvy
MyIvy is Ivy Tech's online student portal. Students use MyIvy to check e-mail, register for classes, pay tuition, manage financial aid, get the latest news and announcements, and much more. MyIvy also contains "QuickLinks" to the Ivy Tech websites and online tools you will use most often. Learn more about MyIvy
Before you can register for classes you will need to submit documentation or complete an assessment test. Your test scores can help us determine the best English and math starting classes for you. See the Test Score Course Placement Chart
If you submitted assessment documentation during the application process, your advisor will likely be able to work with those documents to determine course placement and you won't need to take any further steps. If you don't have any of those documents or the scores don't meet minimum thresholds, don’t worry! Your advisor will direct you to complete our free Knowledge Assessment to help develop your customized learning path to better prepare you for courses.
(6) Register for Classes
Once you have completed the steps above, you may register for classes. Ivy Tech students register for courses using the Schedule Builder tool which can be accessed within MyIvy. If you are a new, first-time Ivy Tech student, we recommend that you meet with your advisor who will help you develop your Academic Completion Plan and help you sign up for courses that are the best fit for you.
For a complete list of registration steps, including detailed registration steps, deadlines, and information about holds, withdrawals, waitlists, and refunds, visit our Registration 101 page.
(7) Pay Your Tuition
After registering for your courses, your bill can be viewed in your MyIvy account > Student Dashboard- > View/Pay Balance. Payments can also be made in your MyIvy account. For complete information about payments, including payment options, payment plans, how to make immediate payments, due dates, information about refunds, and more, visit our Payments page.
Ivy Tech + NACCE
Ivy Tech Community College is proud to announce its partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) and participation in the Everyday Entrepreneur Program (EE).
This collaboration aims to support aspiring student entrepreneurs by providing essential resources and funding to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. Through the EE program, Ivy Tech campuses will receive $5,000 to fund pitch competitions, helping students secure the capital needed for prototype testing, customer acquisition, and business scaling.
Program Goals and Benefits:
Funding Access: Grants and loans for business seed funding. Skill Development: Training in essential business and financial management skills. Supportive Network: A collaborative environment fostering entrepreneurial growth. Local Impact: Building scalable businesses that enhance the local economy and increase employment.
About NACCE:
NACCE is a leading organization focused on igniting entrepreneurship within community colleges. With over 340 member colleges and nearly 2,000 members, NACCE empowers college leaders and supports job creation through entrepreneurial initiatives. For more information, visit www.nacce.com.
Join Ivy Tech Community College and NACCE in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Together, we are building a brighter economic future.
With Ivy Tech Fort Wayne's Entrepreneurship program, you'll be able to take your business from idea to launch in as little as two semesters. Fill out a quick form to get program info and find out how we can make your idea a reality!
Steve has over 40 years of experience in community and economic development. He founded and managed his enterprises in various sectors, including retail, wholesale, development, and distribution in the clothing, food, energy, and telecommunications industries. His recent achievements include leading the startup, growth, and eventual sale of a 16-year LLC specializing in energy and telecommunications solutions for rural utilities and their consumers. This company was acquired by the New York-based private equity firm Kohlberg and Company and subsequently integrated into the industry-leading AM Conservation Group. Following a successful transition phase post-sale, Steve dedicated his efforts to supporting the entrepreneurial community.
His recent endeavors include transforming the Indiana University seeded SOURCE Entrepreneurship Center into a neighborhood-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Additionally, he joined Ivy Tech Community College as an adjunct instructor in the School of Business, Logistics, and Supply Chain, focusing on business and entrepreneurship. In 2022, Steve was selected to spearhead the development of the Indianapolis region's Ivy Tech Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (GSEI), where he currently serves as the GSEI Program Chair, Network Developer, and a full-time faculty member specializing in entrepreneurship. A graduate of Indiana University School of Business with additional certificates from Ball State University and Harvard Business Online, Steve celebrates 42 years of marriage. He takes pride in his two children pursuing mental health and psychology research careers.
Sueann Graham stands out as a distinguished leader in education and entrepreneurship, currently excelling as the Program Chair for the Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Ivy Tech Community College in Bloomington. Her illustrious career spans several decades, marked by a deep commitment to the educational and business spheres. Starting in education, Sueann quickly established herself as a specialist in administration, design thinking, and educational technology. Her expertise isn't limited to the academic field alone; she also boasts over fifteen years of experience in the business sector, skillfully managing operations across various company sizes, from nimble startups to large corporations.
Sueann's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly in the early 2000s when she embraced the challenges of entrepreneurship while raising her two children. Her ventures were diverse and successful, including ownership of three businesses and the achievement of securing a patent, showcasing her innovative mindset. Her academic journey, comprising a Bachelor of Arts in Russian Teaching from Purdue University and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Marian University, underpins her professional achievements. As Program Chair, Sueann is not just an administrator but a mentor and inspiration, passionately supporting students in their pursuit of dreams. She is unwavering in her commitment to creating a nurturing environment at Ivy Tech that cultivates the next generation's entrepreneurial and innovative spirits.
Mark Lowe is a dynamic and dedicated entrepreneur whose journey since 2003 has encompassed the successful launch of six distinctive restaurants, a forward-thinking professional development firm, and an imaginative board game design company. His ventures reflect his eclectic skills and relentless pursuit of growth and embody his commitment to cultivating a thriving entrepreneurial culture. Mark's impact extended into the heart of his community when he embraced the role of a business consultant for Greater Lafayette Commerce in 2016. He was the driving force behind innovative programs that shaped and uplifted numerous aspiring entrepreneurs for six years. His unique initiatives garnered local admiration and national recognition, earning the "Top Innovative Idea" accolade from the Indiana Chamber Executives Association in 2019.
Elevating his commitment to nurturing future business leaders, Mark assumed the prestigious position of program chair at the Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Ivy Tech Community College in 2020. His educational background, including an MA in Experimental Psychology and an MS in Human Resources Development from Indiana State University, equips him with a profound understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This knowledge and real-world experience position Mark as a multifaceted mentor and an invaluable asset to the business and community. His approach is not just about fostering business understanding; it's about igniting the entrepreneurial spirit and guiding the next generation toward innovative success.
Laura Montgomery is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse and extensive career spanning over three decades in business ownership, management, and consulting. She embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by founding a Technology Consulting Firm, reflecting her early interest in innovation. Over time, Laura expanded her business portfolio to include varied industries. She owned and managed a mortgage company, showcasing her adaptability and financial acumen. Furthermore, she ventured into real estate, handling both commercial and residential properties, where she demonstrated an acute understanding of market trends and investment opportunities. Laura's business acumen also shone in the hospitality industry, evidenced by her successful launch of two restaurants featured on the Food Channel.
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Laura is dedicated to supporting small businesses and fostering entrepreneurship. She has worked with the Indiana Small Business Development Center and volunteered as a SCORE Mentor. Presently, she serves as the Program Chair for The Garatoni School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Ivy Tech Community College. Her commitment to her community is evident through her previous role as an elected official on the Bartholomew County Council and her involvement with the Columbus Economic Development Corporation. Laura holds an Accredited Business Intermediary title and was affiliated with the BEI Network of Exit Planning Advisors™, highlighting her professional excellence. She is an active member of the Columbus Rotary and holds a bachelor's degree in Information Technology from the University of Cincinnati. As a Certified Business Coach, she is dedicated to continual learning and professional development. Currently, Laura manages a diverse real estate portfolio that accommodates 20 small business tenants, cementing her status as a respected and influential leader in entrepreneurship and business.
Questions About the Program?
Future Students
If you’re not yet an Ivy Tech student, contact us at 1-888-489-5463 and we’ll be happy to help.
Current Students
Contact your academic advisor, who can answer any questions you have about the Entrepreneurship program and your certificate and degree options.
Find Local Advising Contact Info
Don't see a nearby location?
Call 1-888-489-5463 and we'll get you started.
Madison Advising Center
590 Ivy Tech Drive
Madison, IN 47250
Fax 812-265-4028
Zoom Video Calls Available by appointment only. Call 812-256-2580, ext. 4502 to make an appointment.
Advising Team Tricia Miracle 812-265-2580 ext. 4137 tmiracle2@ivytech.edu Text during business hours 812-510-3844 Virtual Drop-In Advising Hours: Wednesdays 9:00-1:00pm & Thursdays 2:00-5:30pm Zoom Link
Lisa Kelley 812-265-2580 ext. 4163 lkelley3@ivytech.edu Text during business hours 502-414-1597 Virtual Drop-In Advising Hours: Tuesdays 1:30pm-5pm & Thursdays 8:30am-12pm Zoom Link
Starting Oct. 28th Tuesdays: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All other days by appointment from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. **Special Saturday December 7 @ 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
1 Source: US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage estimates: Indiana.(2023). Lightcast™, lightcast.io. Occupational Overview for Indiana, 2023-2024
2 Associate degree cost is determined by tuition for an in-state, full-time student. Certificate and technical certificate costs are determined by tuition for an in-state, part-time student. Additional fees may be applied. Visit the Tuition & Fees page to learn more.
