WEI Journal
Read the WEI Journal for updates & news from the Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program at Stanislaus State.
Latest Edition: Nov. 11, 2024 for Quarter 3.
WEI Focus at 2nd Year of Pilot: Integration
Now completing its second pilot year, the rapidly expanding WEI Program is focused on institutional integration. Our student organization, The WE&I Group, is growing, and our signature events and programs are now becoming part of the fabric of Stan State. Our open invitation to the diverse business communities of our region is setting a tone of inclusion and collaboration between our students and a transforming region. The WEI Program is poised to complete its pilot run in 2025, thanks to the marvelous talents of all those who have contributed to this point and those who have yet to join us. WEI thanks you for your continued support!
WEI Speaker Series Presents : Elliot Begoun
The WEI Program recently welcomed Elliot Begoun, its newest 2024 Entrepreneur in Residence, to speak to our MBA and MGT 4900 students at the Turlock Campus. As the founder of The Intertwine Group and a recognized authority in scaling food and beverage brands, with extensive industry experience and a passion for empowering entrepreneurs, Elliot provided invaluable guidance to students, faculty, and the WEI community. He is helping to inspire the next generation of innovators.
During his first session, Elliot Begoun shared insights on building impactful brands and navigating the entrepreneurial journey, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. His profound insights, wealth of experience, and unique perspectives resonated deeply with the audience, creating an engaging and informative experience. Students expressed their appreciation, commenting that they found the talk "very informative and insightful" and valued the opportunity to gain real-world knowledge beyond the textbook.
In gratitude, Dr. Sarokh Kim, Associate Professor in the College of Business and our host, noted, "I couldn’t have asked for a more engaging speaker." Elliot’s reflections on his journey with "TIG Brands" and his practical life advice left a positive impact, and students greatly enjoyed the conversation and took away valuable lessons for their entrepreneurial paths. The WEI Program thanks Dr. Kim for his support and partnership! Thank you, Elliot!
Learn more about WEI Entrepreneur in Residence Program
The WEI Podcast Features Three Amazing Individuals as the Show Continues to Grow and Thrive
This quarter, at the E&I Studio, we welcomed Ann Endsley, 2024 Champion of the American Dream and CEO of Greens on Tenth and Gather; Oscar Garcia, CEO of Aspira Consulting; and Marian Kaanon, 2022 Champion of the American Dream. Our guests challenged, inspired, and motivated our audience to consider the artistry behind entrepreneurship and business ownership. As Season III comes to a close, we eagerly anticipate bringing you episodes 4 and 5, featuring Danny Bernstein, Managing Partner of Hawktower and CEO of Reservoir, along with Gloriamar Gámez, Chief Program Officer, and Gehad Elhanafy, Program Associate at Beam Circular. Our season finales mark a pivot toward innovation and the regionally transformational work of some truly remarkable individuals.
The 2024 WEI Challenge Fall Signature Event
Pitch. Challenge. Win. Pitch your original business idea for cash prizes, lunch with a WEI Advisory Board Member, a special appearance on the E&I Studio Podcast, and 5 hours of mentoring from a Valley Sierra SBDC Business Advisor to launch your business!
Pitch Presentation: December 5, 2024
Time: 7-10 p.m.
Location: Warrior Steps
Cash prizes and/or mentorship opportunities will be awarded to the top 3 teams.
1st Place: $2,000
2nd Place: $1,000
3rd Place: $500
BEAM Circular & Gener8tor Announce Business Accelerator
The BEAM Circular Accelerator has launched in California's Northern San Joaquin Valley to support circular bioeconomy startups. In collaboration with gener8tor and HawkTower, this program offers $30,000 in non-dilutive funding, up to $100,000 in venture funding, and strategic mentorship. Focusing on bioeconomy solutions like sustainable agriculture and waste transformation, it provides lab space, mentorship, and access to a network of investors. Applications are open until November 17, 2024. The accelerator will start in February 2025, aiming to position the region as a leader in sustainable innovation.
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Updated: November 21, 2024