Explore AI in Action: Upcoming Workshops Through the AI Business Learning Connector

The Muncie Innovation Connector’s AI Business Learning Connector is your gateway to understanding and leveraging artificial intelligence for business success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, or professional exploring how to integrate AI into your operations, this program offers practical, hands-on training to help you stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape.

We’re excited to announce a new lineup of FREE “AI in Action” workshops—beginning with a session on December 19th. 

December 19 – 9:00 AM

AI in Action: Safe, Responsible, and Secure Use of Generative AI
 Presenter: David Colgan

Generative AI is powerful—but without the right safeguards, it can introduce hidden risks. This 1-hour session explores the core security dimensions of AI usage, including data protection, bias mitigation, hallucination risk, critical-thinking practices, and organizational AI policies. You’ll learn how to keep AI outputs accurate, secure, and compliant while still enabling teams to innovate with confidence. Perfect for anyone deploying AI in professional settings.

Register HERE. 

Additional Upcoming Workshops

January 9, 2026 – 9:00 AM
 Five Ways to Get More From AI Image Generation with Google’s Nano Banana Pro
 Presenter: Ryan Hunter
 An overview of five practical ways to generate more effective and creative results using Google Gemini’s Nano Banana Pro. 

Register HERE. 

January 23, 2026 – 9:00 AM
 Inside Claude Code – A Practical Deep Dive for Developers
 Presenter: David Colgan
 A hands-on look at how Claude Code can analyze repositories, generate and refactor code, create tests, debug issues, and support modern engineering workflows.

Register HERE. 

February 27, 2026 – 9:00 AM
 Notebook LM – An Overview for Educators and Students
 Presenter: Ryan Hunter
 A session exploring how Notebook LM can help organize information, synthesize complex topics, and support both teaching and studying more effectively.

Register HERE. 

Innovation Connector on WMUN: Recap of Showcase Week & What’s Next in 2026

On November 26th, Innovation Connector CEO Ted Baker joined Steve Lindell on WMUN’s Delaware County Today — Thanksgiving Eve Edition to reflect on a milestone month for the Innovation Connector. Broadcasting from WMUN’s brand-new video production studio, Baker shared a recap of a remarkably successful month of events leading into the 2025 Business Showcase Week, held during Global Entrepreneurship Week from November 17–22.

This year, the Innovation Connector expanded its traditional Showcase Week into a month-long series of opportunities, hosting events throughout November to engage even more entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and students. We also achieved a major milestone, earning the title of #1 in the world for Most Events During Global Entrepreneurship Week—a significant accomplishment for both the Innovation Connector and the Muncie community.

One of the highlights of the month was the Opening Kickoff Celebration on November 17th, where approximately 135 attendees filled the Innovation Connector lobby. During the interview, Baker highlighted that many local entrepreneurs and business owners were recognized with Excellence in Innovation Awards, noting that the community is full of individuals who deserve recognition. He took a moment to express heartfelt appreciation for Ron Fauquher, Board Chair of the Innovation Connector, emphasizing that “we would not be where we are as an organization or community without him.”

Beyond recapping Showcase Week, Baker reiterated the Innovation Connector’s mission: empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs with the essential tools, resources, and support they need to thrive. He described the Innovation Connector as both a lifeline and a link to growth for the region’s entrepreneurial community.

Baker also shared what’s ahead for the Innovation Connector as preparations begin for the 2026 Business Showcase Week. A key priority for next year is expanding event accessibility—especially for individuals who work full-time but are interested in launching side ventures or stepping into entrepreneurship.

He went on to highlight the continued development planned for two major organization initiatives: the AI Business Learning Connector and the Muncie Regional Mentorship Hub. Both programs will play a central role in providing hands-on support and education for entrepreneurs throughout the coming year. As Baker noted, the Innovation Connector remains focused on deepening its impact across East Central Indiana—particularly for the small businesses that make up the backbone of Delaware County and beyond.

Listen to the full interview on WMUN.

 

Innovation Connector Holiday Closure: November 26–28

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Innovation Connector will be closed Wednesday, November 26 through Friday, November 28. Our team will resume normal operations on Monday, December 1. If you have an office space here, you continue to have 24/7 access.

From all of us at the Innovation Connector — Have a safe, warm, and happy Thanksgiving!

Innovation Connector Discusses New Leadership and Upcoming Business Showcase Week on WMUN

On October 27th, Innovation Connector CEO Ted Baker joined Steve Lindell on WMUN’s Delaware County Today to share exciting updates about the organization’s leadership and the upcoming Business Showcase Week.

During the interview, Baker introduced the Innovation Connector’s new Director of Operations, Frank Scott II. Scott shared how his father, Frank Scott, influenced his views on leadership and community involvement—values that continue to guide him today. As he steps into his new role, Scott expressed his enthusiasm for helping strengthen the Innovation Connector’s impact and supporting local entrepreneurs in their journeys to success.

The discussion also highlighted the many opportunities ahead for business owners, nonprofit leaders, and innovators during this year’s Business Showcase Week. Throughout the first two weeks of November, pre-showcase workshops and programs will take place across the community, including sessions for nonprofit leaders, STEM-focused experiences for younger students, and the START Something Now initiative—a program designed to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. This in-school program will reach more than 500 junior and senior high school students, encouraging them to explore creative ideas and consider the possibilities of launching their own ventures.

The main Business Showcase Week will take place November 17–22 during Global Entrepreneurship Week, featuring a full schedule of events dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and small business growth.

The week begins with the Opening Kickoff Celebration and 2025 Entrepreneur Impact Awards on Monday, November 17, from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. at the Innovation Connector. This celebration will honor five local entrepreneurs who demonstrate exceptional leadership, creativity, and community spirit. During the event, the newly constructed Library for Lifelong Learning will also be dedicated in recognition of all past and current members of the Innovation Connector Board of Directors. Additionally, WMUN’s Delaware County Today will broadcast live from the Kickoff Celebration, sharing the excitement with listeners across the region.

That evening, the Innovation Connector will host a welcome reception for the Indiana Starters Coalition and Right to Start Indiana, offering a chance for startup founders, small business owners, and community leaders to connect, share experiences, and celebrate entrepreneurship in East Central Indiana. 

On Tuesday, November 18, attendees can participate in sessions covering a wide range of topics, including business development, marketing strategies, AI implementation, and leadership skills. The day’s programming will feature many workshops including The Credit Playbook: Simple Moves, Big Wins with Mayor Dan Ridenour, as well as the Tech and Innovation After Hours Meetup at The Clubhouse in downtown Muncie—an evening designed for networking and collaboration among local innovators and entrepreneurs.

All events during Business Showcase Week are free to attend, made possible by the support of more than 25 business and organizational partners.

Registration is now open at ShowcaseWeek.com

Listen to the full interview on WMUN.

Business Showcase Week 2025: Muncie’s Premier Celebration of Innovation and Impact

By Ted A. Baker, CEO, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc.—

MUNCIE, IN—Now entering its fourth year, Business Showcase Week 2025 at the Muncie Innovation Connector promises to be the most expansive and inspiring yet. Aligned with Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025, this signature event will feature more workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and collaborative meet-ups than ever before, reinforcing Muncie’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurial growth. This year’s theme is “Celebrate. Educate. Collaborate.”

Here are a few events that we would like to highlight.

Opening Kickoff Celebration & Entrepreneur Impact Awards, Monday, November 17: 8:00 – 9:30 AM – Showcase Week kicks off with the Opening Kickoff Celebration, where the Innovation Connector will honor five outstanding entrepreneurs with the 2025 Entrepreneur Impact Award. These visionary leaders exemplify resilience, community engagement, and business excellence:

  • Kristie Koch – School-Based Behavior Consultation
  • Huseyin Ergin – Ergin Technologies, LLC
  • Bryan Matheny – Perfect Fit Plus, LLC
  • Jessica Hall – Gifted Gourmet
  • Juliann Barnes – JULIANNBARNESDESIGNS

Also, during this time, the newly constructed Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc., Library for Lifelong Learning will be dedicated in honor of all past and current members of the Innovation Connector Board of Directors.

Later that evening, the Innovation Connector will host a welcome reception for the Indiana Starters Coalition and Right to Start Indiana, bringing together startup founders, small business owners, and ecosystem builders. Enjoy food, beverages, and meaningful conversations in a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. Attendees will hear from five entrepreneurs/business owners about their startup journeys, as well as several area elected officials who shape policies that impact our local business ecosystem.

Other Workshops and Meetups Throughout the Week:

Tuesday, November 18, is packed with dynamic programming:

  • 2:00 PM – “The Credit Playbook: Simple Moves, Big Wins” led by Mayor Dan Ridenour, a must-attend session on mastering personal and business credit.
  • 6:00 PM – Tech and Innovation After Hours: Muncie Tech Meet-Up at The Clubhouse, downtown Muncie. Expect games, refreshments, and engaging networking for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.
  • Raising capital for your business
  • Marketing strategies and HR tools
  • AI discovery and implementation
  • The health and wellness of business owners
  • The evolving role of manufacturing in the Muncie community
  • QuickBooks training and tips
  • Women in Tech
  • … and much more!

In addition, pre-Showcase Week workshops will be held during the first two weeks of November and include:

  • Business sessions for Nonprofit leaders
  • In-School program, START SOMETHING NOW, for Junior and Senior High School students
  • STEM-focused programs for K–8 students

All Showcase Week events are completely free to attend, thanks to the support of over 25 business and organizational partners.

A special thanks goes to:

Title Partner:

  • First Merchants Bank

Business Impact Partners:

  • Arrowhead Plastic Engineering
  • Spotted Monkey Marketing
  • R & R Engineering Co.
  • Prime Trust Federal Credit Union
  • Indiana Michigan Power Foundation – Business Impact Partners

While every event is free, registration is required. Reserve your spot today at www.showcaseweek.com.

Join us for this vibrant celebration of innovation, learning, and community. Business Showcase Week 2025 is more than an event—it’s a movement.

Be part of it.

Ted Baker on WMUN: Spotlight on Business Showcase Week 2025

Innovation Connector’s Executive Director & CEO, Ted Baker, recently joined WMUN on September 24th to share exciting updates about Business Showcase Week 2025.

During the conversation, Ted highlighted how Muncie is a vibrant community with a strong entrepreneurial spirit—and how Innovation Connector’s dedicated team works to support that momentum.

Registration is now open for this year, which will be packed full of FREE events throughout November. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, a nonprofit leader, or simply curious about exploring new ideas, there’s something for everyone. 

The week will also include START Something Now! An Entrepreneurial Experience for Jr. High & High School Students in Muncie & Delaware County. This Innovation Connector event for junior high and high school students will be held in local schools and is designed to spark early interest in entrepreneurship. 

Centered around the theme “Celebrate, Educate, and Collaborate,” Showcase Week is designed to uplift the community while sparking innovation and connection. Last year, Muncie Innovation Connector ranked 5th in the nation for the number of events held during Global Entrepreneurship Week. This year, they’re aiming even higher—with expectations of ranking first in the country.

Don’t miss out on one of Muncie’s most impactful weeks of the year.
Register today at ShowcaseWeek.com. 

Listen to the full interview on WMUN.

Business Showcase Week 2025 Set to Transform Muncie’s Entrepreneurial Landscape

By Ted A. Baker, CEO, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc.—

MUNCIE, IN—The entrepreneurial energy of East Central Indiana is ready to take center stage as the Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc. presents the 4th Annual Business Showcase Week, set to run through the first three weeks of November 2025, with the main events scheduled for November 17–22. In collaboration with Global Entrepreneurship Week, this year’s Showcase is more expansive and impactful than ever. With 80+ FREE events, it’s designed to inspire, educate, and connect the Greater Muncie business community.

Celebrate. Educate. Collaborate.

At the Innovation Connector, “innovation” isn’t just part of our name; it’s our mission. For more than twenty years, we’ve empowered businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations across the region through creative solutions to real-world problems.

Business Showcase Week 2025 continues this legacy through a robust lineup of workshops, networking sessions, expert panels, pitch competitions, and more. Our goal is to equip every participant with tools, insights, and connections that foster long-term success.

“Business Showcase Week is more than a series of events—it’s a catalyst for transformation. Every session, every idea, and every connection strengthens the foundation of Muncie’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Ted A. Baker, CEO, Innovation Connector and Founding Dreamer of Showcase Week

What’s New for 2025?

After drawing over 500 unique participants to 19 events last year, we’re setting even more ambitious goals:

  • 80+ high-impact events, including:
    • Dedicated programming for nonprofits
    • AI and Tech workshops for K–8 students & Adults
    • Events in Muncie, Anderson, Dunkirk, and Marion
    • Workshops for middle and high schools across Muncie and Delaware County
  • 2,000+ expected participants over the expanded three-week schedule
  • FREE admission to all events
  • Complimentary food and beverages at many events
  • Note: While all events are free, space is limited. Register early at ShowcaseWeek.com

Why It Matters

This isn’t just an event series—it’s a strategic initiative to build a stronger, more connected, and resilient regional economy. Whether you’re a startup, a nonprofit, a major employer, or a community organization, there’s value here for you.

“Business Showcase Week reflects the Innovation Connector’s core mission: to drive economic vitality by empowering entrepreneurs. It’s a bold step toward a more collaborative and innovative future.”
Ron Fauquher, Chair, Innovation Connector Board of Directors

Supported by Title Partner, First Merchants Bank, and over 20 community partners, Showcase Week 2025 embodies the spirit of collaboration that drives sustainable economic development in Muncie and beyond.

Join the Movement

Whether scaling a business, launching a startup, looking for collaborators, or exploring new opportunities, Business Showcase Week 2025 is your moment to get involved and be inspired.

  • Main Showcase Week: November 17-22, 2025
  • Register Now: www.ShowcaseWeek.com
  • Cost: FREE (registration recommended)
  • Extras: Enjoy great food and drinks at many events!

Don’t miss your chance to join the movement reshaping Muncie’s future and making national waves along the way.

For the full schedule or to inquire about partnerships, visit ShowcaseWeek.com or email us at info@innovationconnector.com.

Ted Baker to Speak at Florida Business Incubation Association Fall Conference

We’re proud to share that Ted Baker, CEO & Executive Director of the Muncie Innovation Connector, will be a featured speaker at the Florida Business Incubation Association (FBIA) Fall Conference at the Universal Orlando – Royal Pacific Resort on October 23rd – 24th.

This conference brings together Florida’s top entrepreneurship support organizations to exchange ideas, share strategies, and strengthen the future of business incubation and acceleration.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with Florida’s leading entrepreneurship support organizations, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and explore strategies to fuel business incubation and acceleration. If you’re attending, let’s connect! Looking forward to insightful conversations and meaningful collaborations.”
— Ted Baker

We’re excited to see Innovation Connector represented on this impactful stage!

AI in Action: Tracking and Improving Marketing ROI Workshop

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Innovation Connector Welcomes Frank Scott II as Director of Operations


The Board of Directors of Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc. is excited to announce the appointment of Frank Scott II as the new Director of Operations. A seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in business ownership, manufacturing operations, and community mentorship, Frank brings the insight, energy, and dedication necessary to strengthen both local and regional entrepreneurial ecosystems.

As an entrepreneur, Frank has founded and grown several ventures in the Muncie area and was recognized as the 2023 Champion Entrepreneur of the Year. His leadership has already made a lasting impact in the community, and his new role at the Innovation Connector will help expand that legacy.

Frank will oversee day-to-day operations at the Innovation Connector’s facility at 1208 West White River Blvd. He will also collaborate with CEO Ted Baker to increase the organization’s regional presence and strategic impact. His responsibilities will include leading client advising/coaching, recruitment and engagement, facility management, and supporting key ecosystem-building initiatives such as the AI Business Learning Connector and the Muncie Regional Mentorship Hub.

“Frank’s entrepreneurial mindset, passion for service, and values-driven leadership are exactly what we need during this exciting stage of growth,” said Board Chair Ron Fauquher.

CEO Ted Baker added, “Frank brings a fresh perspective to our organization as we continue to broaden our reach in the Muncie-area’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. His experience and insight will greatly enhance our ability to serve entrepreneurs and business owners. We are thrilled to welcome Frank to the team.”

The hiring process was highly competitive, involving the review of 41 applications and multiple rounds of interviews. Frank emerged as the clear choice due to his blend of practical experience, passion for servant-leadership, strategic thinking, and community engagement.

As he has his entire life, Frank resides in Muncie with his wife, Que’Andra, and their two children. Frank will begin his new role at the Innovation Connector in early October 2025. Please join us in welcoming Frank Scott II to his new role as Director of Operations at the Innovation Connector.