I recently heard about a virtual entrepreneurship event hosted by our Sinclair School of Nursing. Modeled after the reality show “Shark Tank,” the event included presentations from two exceptional nursing students, Ruth Ogunniyi and Sean Pridgeon, to Sinclair faculty and Office of Research and Economic Development staff. They then received feedback. In addition, every student at the event got to hear from the panel about what it takes to launch a successful business.

This event is one more example of how the University of Missouri — as the state’s public, land-grant, research university — generates the opportunities and innovations that greatly benefit Missouri’s economic landscape. Other programs such as the Mizzou Venture Mentoring Service provide mentorship to young entrepreneurs. And already six Mizzou-Made startups have received $95,000 in funding through our UM System pitch competition “Entrepreneur Quest” since the program began in 2019.

The new generation of industry leaders who will shape our communities for years to come begins here, at Mizzou. By investing in and empowering our incredible students, we empower Missouri.

— Mun