Skandalaris Center

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A Safe Space for Innovative Ideas: The Skandalaris Center Hosts First IdeaBounce® and Info Session for Fall 2021

Shanna Akley
September 15, 2021
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Over 60 undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, alumni, and innovation leaders from the St. Louis community gathered in Bowles Plaza on September 9th for the Skandalaris Center’s Info Session and IdeaBounce® event. Among the crowd were several student start-ups, who are involved in the center’s Student Entrepreneurial Program (StEP), and entrepreneurial student groups. They provided information and communicated opportunities available for those interested in getting involved. “You don’t need any experience in entrepreneurship, just the interest to get involved,” said Pratamesh Chati, a representative from the student group Sling Heath.

After learning about the center’s resources and programs offered, individuals from all backgrounds and disciplines lined up to pitch their innovative and entrepreneurial ideas, and received support and networking opportunities to help advance their ideas. “This is a safe space to share your ideas,” said Cyril Loum, the Assistant Director of Venture Development for the center. “We want to hear all of your innovative ideas and help you put these ideas into action”, he said.

Over 15 idea pitches were heard and judged by innovative leaders in the St. Louis community. Out of these, the judges chose five ideas that stood out above the rest. These lucky winners of a $25.00 Visa gift card included Harrison Lieber, Vinayak Nair, Tong Wu, Elizabeth Schenk, and Ali Deja. “Choosing these winners was extremely difficult. There were so many amazing and innovative ideas heard today. This is what entrepreneurship is all about”, said II Luscri, Managing Director of the Skandalaris Center and Assistant Vice Provost for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.