UK Gatton College of Business and Economics
 

Our Mission

The mission of the University of Kentucky's Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship (VACE), in keeping with the Gatton College of Business and Economics Strategic Plan, is to strengthen Kentucky’s economy through entrepreneurship and small business outreach in the Commonwealth. VACE serves students, staff, faculty, and community entrepreneurs with the goal to help launch their startup dreams. The Center seeks guidance from members on the advisory board as well as regional stakeholders to foster entrepreneurial education through webinars, online accelerator programming, and public events. VACE also connects entrepreneurs with mentors, Kentucky Angel Investors, and free access to downloadable books and templates. Check out the latest news, events, accelerator opportunities, and video library resources to get involved.

VACE Homepage Img
December

2025 GSE Collegiate Pitch, Apply Today!

06
Intent to Compete Due on Dec. 6th
January

2025 PNC Wildcat Pitch Competition! Apply Today!

01
Online Application
January

Spring 2025! Apply for Bootcamp 1.0 Business Accelerator!

12
Deadline to Apply is Jan. 12th

News

Entrepreneurship Club Pitch Competition Winners!

The University of Kentucky Entrepreneurship Club hosted their Startup Pitch Competition on Thursday, November 14th at 5PM in Woodward Hall, Gatton College of Business & Economics. The event featured 6 participants with 5 judges compiled of local entrepreneurs and leaders. A prize pool of $1,000 was awarded by the Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship to fund 3 winners.

 

VACE Bootcamp Accelerator Graduate Wins Investment on ABC’s Shark Tank!

Lexington, KY – On October 18, 2024, Destin George Bell appeared on ABC’s Shark Tank Season 16 premiere to pitch his company, Card.io.  Destin is a native of Louisville, Kentucky and graduate from the Gatton College of Business and Economics at the University of Kentucky (UK).  He received his undergraduate degree in marketing and pursued an entrepreneurial pathway as soon as he could.

Entrepreneurship Club Pitch Competition sponsored by The Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship!

The Entrepreneurship Club (aka eClub) is thrilled to announce their upcoming event: a pitch competition where entrepreneurs at The University of Kentucky can showcase their businesses and compete for a cash prize. This pitch competition will take place at the Gatton College of Business & Economics on November 14th at 5pm.  This competition is generously sponsored by The Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship. All interested participants must follow the rules and guidelines below.