GIECO: Gustavus Innovation & Entrepreneurship Club + Opportunities
What is GIECO?
GIECO, the Gustavus Innovation & Entrepreneurship Club + Opportunities, is a student-run organization dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship at Gustavus Adolphus College. Founded in the Spring of 2024, the organization had over 75 students express interest at the Gustavus Fall Student Involvement Fair. The purpose of the GIECO is to provide experiences and opportunities around entrepreneurship and building an innovative mindset.
According to GIECO Executive Board members, “An opportunity presented itself in January of 2024 when 3 of us took Tara Cadenhead’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Across Industries course. We couldn’t believe that there was no entrepreneurship club at Gustavus, so with huge help from Tara, we started Gustavus Innovation and Entrepreneurship Club and Opportunities (GIECO) in order to better ourselves and the students around us. Our goal was to gain insight into not only entrepreneurship but also the innovative mindset. With the help of our advisor Tara, we also came to realize the amount of alumni who are eager to connect with students and share their insights into their personal career fields and network with students.”
GIECO is supported by the Center for Innovative & Entrepreneurial Leadership (CIEL) and is advised by Tara Cadenhead. Tara is a Gustavus Alumni, Entrepreneur, Professor of Entrepreneurship, and Director of the CIEL.
Why Join GIECO?
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and industry professionals.
- Skill Development: Learn valuable skills such as business planning, marketing, pitching, and leadership.
- Entrepreneurial Support: Receive guidance and resources to bring your ideas to life.
- Career Advancement: Gain experience and build a strong professional network.
GIECO Activities and Opportunities:
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- Entrepreneurship Workshops: Attend workshops on various topics, including idea generation, market research, and financial planning.
- Guest Speakers: Hear from successful entrepreneurs and industry experts share their insights and experiences.
- Competitions: Showcase your entrepreneurial skills and compete for prizes.
- Conferences: Attend conferences to expand your knowledge.
- Off-Campus Experiences: More information to come!
How to Get Involved:
- Attend Meetings: Join meetings to learn more about activities and get involved.
- Follow on Social Media: Stay updated on latest news and events.
- @GACGIECO on Instagram
Join GIECO today and unleash your entrepreneurial potential!
