Reflecting on a Remarkable Year: Innovation Connector’s 2024 Recap

As we close out another incredible year, we’re proud to reflect on the milestones and achievements that defined 2024 at the Innovation Connector. This year has been filled with growth, innovation, and collaboration, further solidifying our commitment to empowering businesses, entrepreneurs, and our community.

Welcoming New Clients

We were thrilled to welcome new clients to our facility this year, fostering an environment of creativity and collaboration within our space. Their presence contributes to the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem we continue to build in East Central Indiana.

One Year with TechWise Academy

In October, we celebrated one year since acquiring TechWise Academy, a leader in coding and STEM education for youth in our community. Together, we’ve introduced innovative classes that inspire curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving in the next generation of tech leaders.

Engaging Workshops and Programs

Our year kicked off with a series of Business Enterprise Services and Training (BEST) Workshops, presented in partnership with the East Central Indiana Regional Planning District. Held at both the Innovation Connector and the John Jay Center for Learning, these free sessions addressed essential topics such as customer service, mental health for business owners, and innovation strategies, drawing participants from across the region.

We also introduced new programs, including the Business Health Check—a vital tool for organizations to assess their strengths and identify growth opportunities. Additionally, our Faith Driven Entrepreneur and Holy Habits discussion groups provided unique spaces for business leaders to reflect on values, habits, and strategies for success. 

A Prestigious Soft Landings Designation

A significant highlight was receiving the Soft Landings Designation from the International Business Innovation Association (InBIA), making us the only organization in Indiana to earn this recognition. This designation underscores our ability to support foreign businesses as they establish operations in the U.S., further elevating Delaware County’s appeal on the global stage. 

Business Showcase Week 2024

Business Showcase Week was another outstanding success, featuring 19 workshops, 29 sponsors, 40 presenters, 7 inspiring award winners, and over 500 attendees. We were also proud to rank 5th in the U.S. for impact events during Global Entrepreneurship Week—a testament to the passion of our community. Business Showcase Week is our way of giving back to the businesses and entrepreneurs who inspire us every day, and we invite you to mark your calendars for Business Showcase Week 2025, happening November 17–22. 

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, we remain committed to our mission of supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in East Central Indiana. Thank you to everyone who made 2024 a memorable year. We look forward to continuing this journey with you!

New Year – New Changes at the Innovation Connector

As we move into the new year, we’re excited to share some updates with you. The Innovation Connector has made changes to how you can reach us. Our new main office telephone number is (765) 216-5900.

To contact our team directly, here are the updated phone numbers and email addresses:

Please note that our email addresses with bsu.edu are being discontinued. Make sure to update your records to continue connecting with us seamlessly. Thank you for making note of these changes!

Holiday Schedule Announcement

The Innovation Connector will close for the holiday season on Monday, December 23, 2024, at noon and will reopen on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

During this time, tenants will continue to have 24/7 access to the building.

We wish you a joyful and safe holiday season! See you in the new year!

Techwise Academy: New Tinker Crew Session Added for 3rd-5th Graders!

Due to popular demand, Techwise Academy is excited to announce a NEW session of our 3rd-5th Grade Tinker Crew class! Starting January 14th, this 12-week program will meet Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 PM, replacing the previously planned 1st-2nd Grade session.

Tinker Crew is the next step for graduates of our 3rd-5th Grade Coding Club, offering a student-led environment to explore advanced topics like programming, robotics, and game design. This class encourages creativity and independent learning, helping students deepen their coding knowledge while developing critical problem-solving skills.

Parents will love seeing their kids engage in activities that spark their curiosity and prepare them for future tech opportunities. Families interested in enrolling are encouraged to act quickly to take advantage of the Early Bird discount still available until December 20, 2024. For more information about Techwise Academy’s courses and to register for the January-April 2025 semester, please visit https://techwiseacademy.com/classes/ 

Business Showcase Week Celebrates Outstanding Local Entrepreneurs

On Monday, November 18th, Business Showcase Week kicked off with a celebration honoring seven remarkable individuals and their contributions to entrepreneurship and the local business community. Presented during the opening ceremony, these awards highlighted the achievements of those who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and steadfast support of small businesses in our area.

Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award Winners:

William and Karen Eason

 

 

 

 

Robert and Wilisha Scaife

 

 

 

 

Jonathan Lamb

 

 

 

 

Jennifer and Frazer Wilson

 

 

 

 

Teresa and Edward Long

 

 

 

 

Craig Robbins

 

 

 

Business Supporter of the Year:

Jeff Hern – Recognized for his unwavering dedication to fostering a thriving local business ecosystem

 

 

 

 

The Innovation Connector is proud to celebrate these outstanding individuals and their ongoing efforts to drive entrepreneurship and economic growth. Their success stories inspire us all to dream big and take bold steps toward creating meaningful change. 

 

 

Business Showcase Week 2024 Recap

Business Showcase Week 2024 has come to a close, and we are truly grateful for the support and enthusiasm that made it such a memorable event. This year, 29 generous sponsors, 40 knowledgeable presenters, 7 inspiring award winners, and over 500 attendees came together for Business Showcase Week’s 19 workshops.  The week was a dynamic and impactful experience.

We want to extend our congratulations to the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award Winners: William and Karen Eason, Robert and Wilisha Scaife, Jonathan Lamb, Jennifer and Frazer Wilson, Teresa and Edward Long, and Craig Robbins. A special congratulations to Jeff Hern, our Business Supporter of the Year, for his dedication and encouragement of local businesses.

It was an honor to be recognized nationally, ranking 5th in the United States for impact events during Global Entrepreneurship Week. This distinction is a reflection of the passion and effort of everyone involved, and we’re proud to represent our community on a larger stage. 

Business Showcase Week is our way of giving back to the businesses and entrepreneurs who inspire us every day. The Innovation Connector team, along with the Spotted Monkey Marketing team, worked hard to design workshops and programs that addressed the needs of our community. The positive feedback we’ve received so far means so much, and we’re already thinking about ways to make next year even better.

We invite you to mark your calendars for Business Showcase Week 2025, happening November 17–22. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year’s success—whether you were a sponsor, a presenter, an award recipient, or an attendee. Your involvement is what makes events like this possible, and we are deeply appreciative of your support. Together, we’re building a stronger and more connected entrepreneurial community.

Muncie and Indiana Garner National Recognition for Event Participation

Muncie, IN – The Innovation Connector, Muncie’s premier center for business resources, is set to host an exciting Business Showcase Week in celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), November 18-23, 2024. This dynamic series of events aims to highlight Muncie’s and East Central Indiana’s vibrant entrepreneurial community, providing valuable networking and learning opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, established businesses, and community leaders alike.

Muncie is being recognized as one of the leading cities in the United States for Global Entrepreneurship Week, ranking second in the nation for cities with the greatest number of events during this worldwide celebration. Additionally, the state of Indiana is setting a national example, earning first place for the largest number of GEW events across the country. Furthermore, the Innovation Connector has achieved fifth place among organizations nationwide for its dedication to offering a robust schedule of GEW events that support entrepreneurship and innovation.

This year’s Business Showcase Week will feature workshops, networking sessions, and celebration! With topics ranging from startup essentials to scaling businesses, the Innovation Connector’s lineup offers something for every stage of business development. The national recognition of Muncie and Indiana in Global Entrepreneurship Week is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in fostering business in Indiana and our community.

The Innovation Connector invites community members, business owners, and leaders to participate in Business Showcase Week. Every event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

For a full schedule of events and to register, visit showcaseweek.com.

Innovation Connector Team Discuss Upcoming Business Showcase Week on WMUN

On November 8th, Innovation Connector’s CEO and Executive Director Ted Baker, along with Program and Events Director Natalie Smith, joined Steve Lindell on WMUN: The Talk of Muncie, to discuss the much-anticipated 3rd annual Business Showcase Week. This week-long event, happening from November 18th to November 23rd at the Innovation Connector, promises to be a robust celebration filled with opportunities for entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders to network, learn, and elevate their business ventures.

The Innovation Connector, an Entrepreneur Support Organization (ESO) based in Muncie, has organized 19 FREE events designed to inspire and empower the local business community. Each year, the Innovation Connector assists over 450 different businesses, connecting them with essential resources. Ted Baker remarked, “It’s a joy to see these businesses succeed.” Baker and Smith shared insights on how this event series is crafted to cater to various aspects of business growth, from leadership development to leveraging cutting-edge technology like AI.

Event Highlights:

FRAUD ALERT: Security for Your Business: Facility & Employee, IT & Banking
(November 18, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm)

This essential session will address the multifaceted security risks faced by businesses today. Featuring Muncie Police Chief Nate Sloan and experts from First Merchants Bank, Deltec Solutions, and the Muncie Police Department’s forensic team, attendees will gain practical advice on protecting business facilities, IT infrastructure, and banking operations.

Insights in Leadership: Lessons and Insights From Coaching Athletes
(November 21, 8:30 am – 10:00 am)  

Rich Maloney, Ball State University’s men’s head baseball coach, and Cam Andry, women’s golf coach, will lead a session focused on leadership lessons derived from coaching athletes. This presentation aims to provide valuable takeaways for business and non-profit leaders seeking to enhance their leadership skills.

What you Need to Know if you Plan to Buy or Sell a Business (Including Side Gigs)
(November 21, 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm)  

Presented by Muncie entrepreneur Ron Fauquher and M&A expert Ralana D. Abraham-Miller, this practical session will guide attendees through the complexities of buying or selling a business, including side gigs. This interactive workshop is a must-attend for anyone looking to explore business transitions.

Middle-Grade and High-School Lunch & AI/Entrepreneurship Workshop
(November 23, Noon – 2:00 pm)

In a new initiative aimed at younger audiences, Innovation Connector will host an AI and entrepreneurship workshop for students in grades 6–12. Facilitated by Ted Baker, Ryan Hunter, and Matt Wenger, the session will include hands-on learning and lunch, sparking students’ interest in technology and its role in entrepreneurship.

Baker and Smith emphasized that Business Showcase Week is designed to be a platform for education, collaboration, and celebration within the Muncie business community. The diverse lineup of workshops and presentations ensures there is something for everyone interested in enhancing their business knowledge and connecting with like-minded professionals.

Don’t miss out on this chance to learn from top local leaders, expand your network, and fuel your entrepreneurial spirit. Mark your calendars and join the Innovation Connector for a week of inspiration and growth! For more details on our 19 FREE Events or to register, visit showcaseweek.com

To listen to the full WMUN interview, click here

Support Safety at the Innovation Connector: Help Us Purchase an AED!

At the Innovation Connector, the well-being of our community is always a priority. That’s why we’re setting a goal to raise $1,499 to purchase an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) system, a crucial tool in emergency response that can help save lives during sudden cardiac events.

During our upcoming Business Showcase Week, all donated funds will be directed toward this goal. Whether you’re attending a workshop, connecting with fellow entrepreneurs, or exploring new ideas, we invite you to join us in this effort. Your contribution, big or small, brings us one step closer to making our space safer for everyone.

In addition to donating during the week, you can also support this initiative by giving cash or checks directly to our staff. Every dollar counts, and we thank you for helping us create a safer environment for all who walk through our doors!

Thank you for standing with us in this important effort. Let’s come together and make safety a top priority at the Innovation Connector! Click HERE to donate today!

Techwise Academy Announces New Semester of Classes for January – April 2025!

Muncie, Indiana — Techwise Academy is thrilled to announce the launch of its upcoming semester of classes, running from January through April 2025, with programs specifically designed to inspire young learners in coding and computer science. Early Bird registration is now open, providing families with a discounted rate of $165 for the entire semester if enrolled by December 20, 2024. After this date, the semester cost will be $180.

The Tinker Crew program, available to both 1st-2nd and 3rd-5th graders, offers a unique opportunity for Coding Club graduates to dive deeper into coding skills and creative tech applications. This program builds upon the foundational skills learned in Coding Club, and participants must have completed the Coding Club course as a prerequisite. Tinker Crew offers twelve student-led sessions that encourage students to explore their interests in various coding topics, including robotics and game design. With a focus on problem-solving and creativity, Tinker Crew allows young programmers to develop skills at their own pace while exploring areas of interest. Students will also receive a Tinker Crew t-shirt to wear on session days!

Coding Club, available to Kindergarten-2nd and 3rd-5th graders, provides an engaging introduction to coding for young learners. Designed to cover a wide range of coding topics, from programming basics to robotics and game design, this twelve-week program emphasizes exploration and curiosity. The first nine sessions are structured to introduce essential skills, while the final three weeks focus on “Passion Projects,” where students work independently on projects that allow them to apply their newfound knowledge and creativity. Participants in Coding Club will also receive a club t-shirt to wear on session days!

Techwise Academy’s courses offer a dynamic learning environment where students can cultivate problem-solving skills, develop a love for technology, and explore their creativity. By combining structured lessons with self-guided exploration, each session is designed to build confidence and excitement about coding and tech, preparing young learners for future opportunities in the digital world.

Families interested in enrolling are encouraged to act quickly to take advantage of the Early Bird discount available until December 20, 2024. For more information about Techwise Academy’s courses and to register for the January-April 2025 semester, please visit https://techwiseacademy.com/classes/