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.

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News

Entrepreneurship Impact: Lindsey Wilson Partners with The University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky’s Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship (VACE) at the Gatton College of Business & Economics have joined forces with Lindsey Wilson College, located in Columbia, KY, to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit in students seeking to start businesses in the Bluegrass. This collaboration began in 2021, combining the expertise of both institutions to assist and educate future founders across the state through the Entrepreneurs Bootcamp Online Accelerator, offered through VACE.

2025 PNC Wildcat Pitch Competition

The PNC Wildcat Pitch Competition is open to all University of Kentucky students from all majors across campus. Teams will pitch a business plan in their division, undergraduate or graduate (including PhD candidates), to compete for prize money. Student teams are encouraged to perform their best pitch to a panel of prestigious judges for a chance to win seed money for their startup ventures! A total of $20,000 in prize money has been generously sponsored by PNC Bank.

2025 PNC Innovation Summit

The PNC Innovation Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn from the best in the business. Join us in-person at the Gatton College of Business & Economics (Woodward Hall, Room 307) as Kentucky leaders, angel investors, and entrepreneurs share their insights on fundraising strategies. Connect with fellow attendees and gain valuable knowledge to propel your career or business. This event is open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members interested in entrepreneurship and raising funds for startups. Capacity is limited and RSVP is required to attend the Summit.