Launch Your Startup!

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 workshops, 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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April

PNC Wildcat Pitch Competition: Intent to Compete

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Undergrad & Grad Teams: Please fill out the Intent to Compete Form
April

KY Pitch Competition

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Event Location Details TBA

News

University of Kentucky Alum Make Fitness Fun Again With His App Card.io

Destin George Bell was fresh out of college when he conceived the idea for Card.io, a movement app taking boring cardio and transforms it into a fun and social game of team turf war. Inspired by his athletic career, Destin came up with a brilliant idea to solve the biggest problems anyone faces when trying to accomplish their fitness goals — motivation and consistency.

University of Kentucky Alum & Entrepreneur Helps Veterans

A University of Kentucky alum is using the skills he learned in the classroom to give back to veterans. Camron Brown, a first-generation college graduate, graduated from UK in 2020 and is quickly making a name for himself in the professional world. In 2021 Brown was named to Forbes’ Next 1,000 list which shines a light on up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

​​​​​​​Lunch & Learn: From Student to Successful Entrepreneur

The Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship in the Gatton College of Business & Economics is excited to partner with the College of Communication and Information for this informative lunch and learn event.