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

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.

Bootcamp Founder Wins 3rd Place in Global Pitch Competition!

(Nashville, TN) - The 2025 Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA) is the premier global competition for students who own and operate a business while attending college or university. Nominees compete against their peers from around the world in a series of local and national competitions in the hope of qualifying for the Global Finals.