EXCITING – Eastern Michigan University will host the 2024 Sesi Midwest Entrepreneurship Conference and Skandalaris Business Plan Competition on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 9 a.m. at McKenny's Ballroom, 878 W Cross St. in Ypsilanti. This free half-day event celebrates and fosters entrepreneurial spirit in high school and college students, teachers and community members from across the Midwest, as well as an opportunity to pitch business ideas to win cash prizes.
“Entrepreneurship and the opportunity to celebrate young entrepreneurs is a vital force for positive change in our communities,” said Sanjib Chowdhury, faculty director of the Entrepreneurship Center at EMU. “The Sesi Midwest Entrepreneurship Conference is a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to connect with inspiring leaders, learn valuable skills and compete for prizes that will help them launch their dreams.”
The conference features special guest speakers Sean Gray and Bhushan Kulkarni, renowned entrepreneurs and thought leaders. Attendees will also have access to a panel discussion with successful business owners Achsha Jones, Marc Alexander, Chris Powers and Vanessa Lane, who will share their insights and experiences.
The focus of the conference is the Scandalous Business Plan Competition, where high school and college students compete for cash prizes of up to $1,000 and the coveted “Best Presentation” award. Three finalists from each category will present their business plans to a panel of judges, showcasing their business potential.
“Building a strong business ecosystem starts with supporting young people with innovative ideas,” said Bob Skandalaris, a donor who established the Business Plan Competition in 2009. “This competition gives students the platform to hone their skills and receive valuable feedback from experienced professionals. “
Attendance at the conference is free, but registration is required. Students, teachers and community members are encouraged to register at web page.
About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and bachelor's degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In total, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences. Business; Education; Engineering and Technology? Health and Human Services; and her master's degree. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity and commitment to applied education. Visit the University rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit University website. To stay up-to-date on university news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.