Workshop Library

We understand the importance of accessibility and continuous learning. That's why we have recorded all our past workshops, making them available for you on our Google Classroom.

Missed a workshop or want to revisit a session? No worries! Below you’ll find a list of our past workshops and the respective classrooms you will need to join. We regularly update our Past Workshops collection with new recordings. Stay tuned for fresh content and ensure you're always ahead in the innovation game.

Content:

  • Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or already on your business journey, this workshop will empower you to overcome misconceptions, leverage resources, and develop a solid business plan. Kelly will provide a comprehensive introduction to starting your own business, covering the fundamentals of entrepreneurship with a focus on tech startups, including key aspects of business planning.

  • This workshop will include a discussion around early-stage funding for venture scalable startup companies. An overview of bootstrapping your business vs. raising investor capital will be compared and discussed. Other topics will include non-dilutive funding sources available to South Dakota entrepreneurs.

  • A comprehensive workshop for startups, where we discuss the process of aligning your budget with your entrepreneurial values, goals, and constraints. Josh will cover the essentials of budgeting, including the creation of pro forma financials necessary for business plans, enabling participants to establish a solid financial framework for their entrepreneurial venture.

  • Learn about media advertising models, different types of television and radio/podcast ads, and how (as a client) to cowrite an effective ad campaign with a commercial production expert that can best promote your business to target customers.

  • Understanding the significance of safeguarding your innovative concepts is essential. Discover the intricate world of intellectual property as this workshop explores the legal framework and procedures involved in protecting innovative ideas and inventions. We will cover the typical areas of intellectual property protection including patents, trademarks, copyrights, etc. and what sets them apart from each other.

  • Dr. Eric Fretz teaches the core practicum class in a campus-wide Entrepreneurship Minor at the University of Michigan. Ranked #1 in the nation in 2019, and top 5 annually, the minor and his course are one of the most popular on campus.

Fall 2023

  • Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional looking to embark on a new venture, this workshop is designed to equip you with the essential tools and knowledge to turn your idea into a thriving business.

  • Embark on an interactive journey as we explore the fascinating world of ChatGPT, a powerful language model that can transform the way you engage with artificial intelligence (AI). Whether you’re a first-time AI user or experienced with AI - this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to leverage ChatGPT and elevate your business to greater success.

  • Whether you're looking to purchase your first commercial space or exploring rental options for business expansion, this workshop is your guide to making informed decisions and avoiding common pitfalls. If you have commerce real estate questions, now’s your chance!

  • Starting a business and need funds? Join us to explore easy financing options for startups, from traditional bank loans to other funding sources. Whether you're just beginning or looking to grow, we'll guide you through simple ways to get the money your business needs!

  • Why did the biotech entrepreneur bring a ladder to the workshop? Because they heard the success in biotech is all about reaching new heights! Join us for a session that promises both elevation and education, as we share valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring biotech entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals eager to climb the ladder of success in the biotech world.

  • Most people don’t have thousands to invest in advertising when marketing a new business. For most small businesses, marketing budgets are also small. By focusing exclusively on your brand, or your image, you can leverage effective, genuine marketing that is inexpensive and free. Your brand is at the center of what people think of you. In this workshop learn about defining your brand, reputation management, social media strategies, and attracting people to your personality and business.

  • Prepare to delve into the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation, unleashing your creativity in a welcoming environment. This workshop is brimming with valuable insights, practical guidance, and a roadmap tailored to help you kickstart your idea while still in college.

  • Maia Donohue, Director of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Idea Hub Accelerator, conducts a hands-on session aimed at guiding participants to build a startup idea within a concise 10-minute timeframe. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to brainstorm ideas, generate concepts, and gain basic information on entrepreneurship models.

Spring 2024

  • Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional looking to embark on a new venture, this workshop is designed to equip you with the essential tools and knowledge to turn your idea into a thriving business. Led by Kelly Weaver, Small Business Development Center

  • Embark on an interactive journey as we explore the fascinating world of ChatGPT, a powerful language model that can transform the way you engage with artificial intelligence (AI). Whether you’re a first-time AI user or experienced with AI - this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to leverage ChatGPT and elevate your business to greater success.

    Led by Joshua Citrak, NSU Empowering Innovators

  • This workshop will give entrepreneurs essential strategies for effective financial management. From understanding key bookkeeping concepts and financial statements to effective budgeting, projecting cash flow needs, and tax planning, this session will provide you with practical tips and tools to build a solid financial foundation for your startup's success.

    Led by Instructor Candi Olson, Northern State University

  • Learn about media advertising through different types of television, radio, and podcast ads, and how to co-write an effective ad campaign to promote your business to target customers.

    Led by Professor Jason Knowles, Northern State University

    *Available 10/24/24

  • Explore the South Dakota startup ecosystem with insights into early-stage funding and the various stages of risk capital. Gain valuable knowledge on how to navigate the funding process and position your startup for success.

    Led by Tom Eitreim, Enterprise Institute

    *Available 11/8/24

  • Explore a variety of funding options, from traditional to non-traditional methods, to secure financial support for your startup, covering early-stage funding, bootstrapping versus investor capital, and non-dilutive funding sources in South Dakota, including banking options and loan programs like SBA 7(a), SBA 504, SD GOED/SD Works, Grow SD, NECOG, and others.

    Led by Olaf Hanson, Dacotah Bank & Tom Eitreim, Enterprise Institute

    *Available 11/8/24

  • Join us for a comprehensive workshop tailored for new business owners. Our expert panelists will cover the fundamental aspects of Banking, Accounting, Insurance, and Legal that are crucial for starting your business. After the presentations, engage in interactive one-on-one sessions for personalized advice, ensuring you're well-prepared for entrepreneurial success.

    Panel: Kristi Martin, Dacotah Bank | Anthony Schwab, Eide Bailly | Pat Tollefson, Insurance Plus | Rod Tobin, Partner at Siegel Barnett & Schutz LLC

    *Available 11/27/24

Fall 2024

  • Learn how to organize your business data in Excel with simple tools like formatting, sorting, tables, and dropdown menus. This workshop will help you streamline operations and keep your spreadsheets clean and efficient!

  • Learn the foundational marketing strategies every startup needs to succeed. This workshop focuses on cost-effective techniques, including free and budget-friendly options, to help you build a strong brand, engage customers, and drive sustainable growth. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to make a big impact without a big budget.

    Available 2/13/25

  • Learn how to leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to elevate your startup’s marketing and communication strategies. This workshop explores a range of AI solutions that streamline content creation, customer engagement, and brand messaging, amplifying your business's reach and impact.

    Available 3/27/25

  • Explore a range of startup funding opportunities, including financing options, grants, low-interest loans, and other resources to support your business. Learn practical steps to secure funding and build a strong financial foundation.

    Available 4/10/25

  • Learn how to lock down your innovations with patents and intellectual property essentials. We'll cover all the steps to protect your business's creativity—without making your brain file for a nap. Whether you’re inventing the next big thing or building your brand, we’ll show you how to protect what’s yours.

    Available 4/24/25

  • Dive into digital content creation and learn actionable tips for social media marketing, content planning, and audience engagement. This workshop is designed to help you grow your startup’s online presence with effective digital strategies for free.

    Available 4/30/25

Spring 2025