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
May

Fall 2025 Bootcamp: Online Orientation & Info Session

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Webinar | Deadline to RSVP is August 20th
May

Apply Today! Fall 2025 Bootcamp Accelerator!

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Online Business Accelerator | Deadline to Apply is August 24th
June

Emerging Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition

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Lyric Theatre & Cultural Arts Center | 300 E Third St, Lexington, KY 40508

News

GSE Summer Startup at The Gatton College of Business

Lexington, KY (June 22 - July 13, 2025) - The Governor's School for Entrepreneurs Summer Startup 2025 will be held at the University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business & Economics!

Gatton College of Business and Economics recognizes winners of 2025 PNC Wildcat Pitch Competition for student entrepreneurs

LEXINGTON, Ky., April 30, 2025 (gatton.uky.edu) - More than 20 student-entrepreneurs showcased their innovative ideas and business savvy during the 2025 PNC Wildcat Pitch Competition Sat., April 26, at the University of Kentucky's Gatton College of Business and Economics. This full-day competition allowed University of Kentucky student teams to pitch their business plans to judges for a chance to win a total of $20,000 in prize money.

Spring 2025 Bootcamp Winning Teams

Lexington, Ky (April 2025) - The Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship (VACE), in the Gatton College of Business and Economics, is excited to announce the Spring 2025 winning startups! Each winning team received prize money to move their ideas forward and help build further momentum into the next phase of their entrepreneurial journeys. Congratulations to all the founders that represent the University of Kentucky, the local entrepreneurial community, and surrounding counties across the state of Kentucky!