February: Opportunities for Starting, Growing, and Supporting Businesses
The groundhog predicted an early Spring that will be full of opportunities to learn and grow at the IDEA Bank!
In this edition, you’ll find the latest from the IDEA Bank, including:
January Recap
Upcoming Workshop: Intro to QuickBooks
Upcoming opportunities to support and celebrate student entrepreneurs
Annual Student Marketing Competiton
Ideation X Gallery Opening
Blooming Business Showcase: A Spring Student Entrepreneur Market
Join the SBDC’s Community Bootcamp for Entrepreneurs
January Recap
Start Your Business in Pike County
The “Start Your Business in Pike County” Workshop was a huge success! More than 30 aspiring business owners gained invaluable insights from Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director, Juliana Bolivar.
The IDEA Bank, the SBDC, and the Pike County Chamber of Commerce collaborated to offer this impactful program which allowed for multi-dimensional learning and a springboard for attendees who aim to build a strong network in Pike County.
Missed this event? Stay up-to-date on the latest events and workshops through our monthly IDEA Bank Buzz or by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Season 2 of the Idea Vault Podcast is here with a NEW episode!
We kicked off the new year with Season 2 of the Idea Vault Podcast, featuring two local entrepreneurs (and siblings) in Episode 1! Tune in as we discuss the importance of local businesses and how Clint & Casey have found success by investing in their community.
Catch up on S2E1 on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, or Podbean, and stay tuned for S2E2, airing later this month.
Upcoming QuickBooks Workshops
Have you considered Intuit QuickBooks for your bookkeeping needs? Join us for a Lunch and Learn with a presentation from the Small Business Development Center on QuickBooks and how it can make your bookkeeping tasks easier.
Registration for the Intro to QuickBooks Workshop is live on the Pike County Chamber of Commerce website. The $20 registration fee will include a meal.
Are you already familiar with QuickBooks, but want a refresher on how it works or a more in-depth explanation of how to use it? Mark your calendars for an additional two-part QuickBooks workshop with hands-on training taking place on April 18 & 25 and hosted by the Small Business Development Center. More information will be available soon, but you can contact sbdc@troy.edu to claim your spot early.
Support and Celebrate Student Entrepreneurs
Annual Student Marketing Competition
Do you know a TROY Student Entrepreneur? Our upcoming Marketing Competition is more than just a chance for them to show off their marketing skills. It is a chance to win $$$ for their business through an advertising bundle valued at $2,000+!
By participating, students can showcase their skills and gain practical experience while they advertise their businesses. Spots are filling up quickly so send this link to a TROY Student Entrepreneur today! https://troyuniversity.formstack.com/forms/student_entrepreneur_marketing_competition_entry
Want more info on what the contest entails? Click here or email us at ideabank@troy.edu.
Ideation X Gallery Opening
Student artists and designers, under the direction of Professor Chris Stagl, have thoughtfully designed and created graphic art aligning with the IDEA Bank’s mission and vision. This art is set to be displayed outside of the IDEA Bank, along Love St. and S. Three Notch.
Join us to celebrate the fourth year of Ideation X Gallery as we host an opening to unveil student’s work on the project. The reception will be open to the public and will take place at the IDEA Bank on February 29 from 5 - 6:30 p.m.
Blooming Business Showcase: A Spring Student Market
Our annual Spring Student Market is back! We are currently accepting student vendors who want to set up shop and connect with the community through this unique event.
Mark your calendar for a fun shopping event on March 21 and, in the meantime, send this link to a TROY Student Entrepreneur you think would make an excellent vendor for this popular annual event: https://troyuniversity.formstack.com/forms/idea_bank_spring_market_vendor_signup
SBDC Community Bootcamp for Entrepreneurs
The Alabama Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Troy University is hosting a 6-week Entrepreneurial Bootcamp designed to elevate your business idea or existing venture. Taking place in the Alabama cities of Troy, Phenix City, and Daleville, a $25 investment can provide a roadmap for forming, stabilizing, and growing your business, with content and resources valued at $500.
The Troy cohort will conveniently meet on Saturday afternoons, beginning on February 24th, here at the IDEA Bank. The program will offer benefits like child care, meals, transportation, and access to individualized consulting and mentorship.
