October Entrepreneurial Opportunities at UK's Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship

An Evening With the VACE Advisory Board: "Lessons Learned from the Trenches"

Students, staff, faculty, and community members are invited to an exclusive panel discussion on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the Gatton College of Business and Economics. This event, organized in partnership with the UK Student-Led Entrepreneurship Club, offers a unique chance to hear directly from successful entrepreneurs on the VACE Advisory Board. The panel will share their "lessons from the trenches," covering real-world insights on navigating early-stage startups, securing funding, overcoming setbacks, and building strong teams.

Money Smart Classes for Entrepreneurs: Six-Week Program Begins on October 6th!

Entrepreneurs looking to master their business finances can enroll in the comprehensive Money Smart Classes for Entrepreneurs. This six-week program is designed to provide practical financial literacy skills essential for launching and scaling a successful venture. Starting on October 6th, this course is a valuable resource for taking control of your business's financial health.

5 Across October 2025 Entrepreneur Pitch Competition - Awesome Inc

The competitive spirit of Lexington's startup scene will be on full display at the 5 Across October 2025 Entrepreneur Pitch Competition on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. Hosted by Awesome Inc., five startups will pitch their businesses Shark Tank-style for a chance to win a $500 cash prize plus the opportunity to accept a $5,000 SAFE Note investment from Keyhorse Capital. This event at Carrick Theater is an excellent opportunity for networking and celebrating local innovation.

RockIT Women 7th Annual Women in Tech (WIT) Conference

VACE is promoting the RockIT Women 7th Annual Women in Tech (WIT) Conference on October 20, 2025, in Louisville. This conference is a key event for connecting, inspiring, and supporting women in the technology sector across Kentucky.

ElectraMet: University of Kentucky Startup Success Story

VACE shines a spotlight on ElectraMet, a UK-born startup that is redefining industrial wastewater treatment. Founded in 2014, the company got its start at UK's Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) and has since developed a more sustainable and cost-effective electrochemical system for metal and oxidant recovery. ElectraMet's growth and recent success, including securing significant funding and expanding its Lexington facility, is a testament to the thriving innovation ecosystem fostered by the University of Kentucky.

Top Challenges for Entrepreneurs: Webinar Featuring Gatton Lecturer, David Hasler

Entrepreneurs can gain crucial knowledge by attending a webinar focused on the Top Challenges for Entrepreneurs, featuring Gatton Lecturer David Hasler. This session is set to provide practical strategies for tackling common hurdles faced by new and growing businesses.

Kentucky Angel Featured Company, KidVestors

The newsletter features KidVestors, a company highlighted by Kentucky Angel. KidVestors is an excellent example of a startup focused on financial literacy and empowering the next generation.

VACE encourages the entrepreneurial community to engage with its partners through several key networking opportunities:

• Careers and Cane's: Essential Industries Edition: This event provides a chance for students and professionals to connect with companies in essential industries.
• NAWBO Events: Kentucky Chapter: Information will be available on upcoming events from the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Kentucky Chapter, promoting women's entrepreneurship.
• Lexington Strong Women Strong Coffee: RSVP!: This networking group offers a supportive environment for professional women in the Lexington area.

The Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship continues its commitment to strengthening Kentucky's economy by providing resources, education, and connections for the Commonwealth's innovators.