Business Showcase Week 2024 – A Special Week for the Muncie Community Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs

By: Ted A. Baker, CEO/Executive Director, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc.

The Muncie Innovation Connector, East Central Indiana’s only full-service Entrepreneurial Support Organization, is thrilled to present Business Showcase Week 2024, November 18 – 23.  All events and workshops will take place at the Innovation Connector, 1208 West White River Blvd, Muncie, and are FREE to attend, but registration is required due to limited space and high demand.  

Business Showcase Week 2024 will include nineteen separate events, including workshops, presentations, panel discussions, networking, and celebrations. This year’s events are directed toward existing business owners, leaders, employees, and entrepreneurs with ideas and future hopes of starting a business. Sessions are designed to provide practical takeaways to benefit attendees as they operate their businesses. Presenters during each session are highly qualified to bring attendees actionable items to improve their businesses.  

Several very popular topics include Security for Your Business: Facility & Employee, IT, and Banking; Empowering Minority-owned, Veteran-owned, Women-owned Businesses: Navigating Opportunities with Local Government, Local Universities, Colleges,  and Muncie Community Schools; Finding Money and Capital to Grow a Business; Business & Tax Strategies for LLCs ad S-Corps; and Moving the Bottom Line of My Business from Negative to Positive – and many more. 

I would like to highlight a few very special events. Business Showcase Week 2024 begins on Monday, November 18 at 8 am with a Kickoff Celebration, including our annual awards presentation for Excellence in Entrepreneurship and a Community Supporter of the Year. It concludes with a Ted Talk about a true account of an overseas encounter that nearly had disastrous results and ended with a great story to tell. 

On Wednesday, November 20, John Qualls from Indy’s Eleven Fifty Academy will lead a cutting-edge, interactive workshop on AI—Prompt Engineering for Executives and Business Leaders. John will show us how to utilize AI in our normal business operations. This workshop will be a game-changer for those who attend. No experience is needed to attend.  Normally, attendees pay $300 or more to attend this workshop, but we offer it free. Again, space is limited, and registration is required.

At 8:30 am on Thursday, November 21, Ball State Coaches Rich Maloney (Baseball) and Cam Andry (Women’s Golf) will provide their Insights in Leadership: Lessons and Insights from Coaching Athletes.  This is a great opportunity for our business community to learn how developing champions on the field or the course can easily transfer to how owners and managers lead their businesses and employees.

For the first time, on Saturday, November 23, from noon – 2 pm, the Innovation Connector will host an interactive session, Middle-Grade and High-School – Lunch and AI/Entrepreneurship Workshop. This is open to students in Grades 6 – 12 who want to learn more about how Artificial Intelligence can assist them to start a business of their own.

I have only highlighted a few of the many events that make up Business Showcase Week 2024.  Again, this year, Business Showcase Week coincides with Global Entrepreneurship Week.  We are proud to bring our best programming to our community and across the globe. None of this would be possible without the generous support of the many sponsors and partners who have invested in our business community. Special thanks go to First Merchants Bank for being the Title Sponsor, the East Central Indiana Regional Planning District, Prime Trust Federal Credit Union, Spotted Monkey Marketing, R & R Engineering Co., Inc., and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation as Business Showcase Support of Excellence Sponsors.  There are so many additional sponsors who make this week possible and special.  For a full list of sponsors, please visit www.SHOWCASEWEEK.com.  

Event registrations are now open at www.SHOWCASEWEEK.com. Remember, all events are FREE to attend, but registration is necessary.  

On behalf of the entire Business Showcase Week 2024 team, we welcome you to join us for this eventful and special week. 

Business Showcase Week: Less Than a Month Away!

Have you heard of Business Showcase Week? From November 18 – 23, Innovation Connector’s Business Showcase Week will be in full swing, offering 19 FREE events for entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders as a part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. Whether you’re just learning about it or have already saved the date, this is an event you won’t want to miss. The week is packed with opportunities for growth, connection, and collaboration, catering to businesses of all sizes—from fresh startups to well-established companies looking to expand.

Now, with just weeks to go, preparations are in full swing for a fantastic lineup of events. In October, the Innovation Connector team hit the stage at Muncie on the Move to drum up excitement for Business Showcase Week. Executive Director and CEO Ted Baker, alongside Kirsten Smith, performed an entertaining skit, the “Business Showcase Week Parade.” This lively performance featured signs as “parade floats,” offering attendees a sneak peek at the 19 events lined up for the week.

The Innovation Connector lobby is also decked out with banners promoting the week as anticipation builds. The event series will include everything from networking strategies and AI for business leaders to hands-on workshops about launching new ventures and mastering content marketing. There’s something for everyone including middle school and high school students and they are all free of charge! The insights and connections you gain could be transformative for your business.

Want to stay updated? Tune in to 104.1 WLBC, where Ted is on the radio at different times providing a glimpse of what you can expect during the week. Don’t forget to follow Innovation Connector on social media for event details, speaker information, and any last-minute updates as we get closer to the big week.

A massive thank you goes out to our title sponsor—First Merchants Bank— and the other incredible organizations that have partnered with us to make Business Showcase Week possible. Their generous support allows us to offer these 19 events free of charge, ensuring the entire community can access these valuable resources and opportunities.

Whether you’re a business owner eager to fine-tune your skills, a startup looking to make connections, or just curious about the local business scene, Business Showcase Week has something to offer. With less than a month to go, now is the time to get excited, spread the word, and get signed up! Join us for Business Showcase Week from November 18 – 23. We can’t wait to see you there! Register today at showcaseweek.com.

Innovation Connector Highlights Business Showcase Week at Muncie on the Move

On October 2nd, 2024, Innovation Connector took center stage at Muncie on the Move, a key networking event for the Greater Muncie community hosted by the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce. The one-hour breakfast program provided an excellent opportunity for businesses and organizations to connect and learn about upcoming initiatives.

As a nonprofit sponsor, Innovation Connector announced that registration is now open for Business Showcase Week 2024, taking place from November 18-23. This exciting week will feature 19 FREE events designed to empower entrepreneurs and business owners. From networking strategies to content marketing, AI for business leaders, and interactive workshops on launching new ventures, Business Showcase Week has something for everyone. Registration is required, so be sure to sign up now at showcaseweek.com!

Innovation Connector’s Executive Director and CEO, Ted Baker, along with Kirsten Smith, captivated the audience with an entertaining skit called the “Business Showcase Week Parade.” During this lively presentation, participants held signs that acted as “floats” for the parade showcasing the week’s lineup, offering a sneak peek at some of the 19 free events. These include workshops like “Why Networking Should Never Grow Old,” focused on successful networking strategies, and “Content Distribution: What to Consider and How to Maximize Your Investment,” led by local marketing agency Intersection. Other highlights include an interactive workshop on starting your own business and an AI-focused session, “Prompt Engineering for Executives and Business Leaders.”

The excitement kicks off at 8 a.m. on Monday, November 18, with a Kickoff Celebration featuring coffee, donuts, special welcomes, and the presentation of awards to local entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, the week will offer valuable opportunities to grow, connect, and collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

Innovation Connector extends a heartfelt thank you to Title Sponsor First Merchants Bank and all other sponsors for making Business Showcase Week 2024 possible. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity—register today at showcaseweek.com to secure your spot for this transformative week of education, celebration, and collaboration!

Celebrating Indiana Women in Tech Week…The Muncie Way

Muncie, IN [September 9, 2024] – Celebrating Indiana Women in Tech Week…The Muncie Way is scheduled for Tuesday, September 17, from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, at the Multi-Purpose Room at Ivy Tech Community College, Muncie (345 S. High Street, Muncie, IN 47305). The event is being hosted in correlation to the inaugural Indiana Women IN Tech week from September 15-22. “The Muncie Indiana Women in Tech Week event is an excellent opportunity for young women in tech to be inspired by and network with current tech professionals says Kirsten Smith, Associate Director of the Center for Information and Communication Sciences (CICS) at Ball State University. 

IvyWorks-IWiT Muncie, Center for Information and Communication Science (CICS), Ball State University, Innovation Connector, and Women in Tech at Ivy Tech (WiT@IvT) are joining to network and celebrate Indiana Women in Tech Week. Ivy Tech student Erica Blouse hopes the message of belonging will be shared at this event. “I encourage female tech students to attend our celebration of Indiana Women IN Technology Week. There are many opportunities to network with others who have journeyed along our same path. This is a place to share ideas and to hear what IS possible. I wanted all the women in technology to understand this: You belong.” 

The event will feature two networking sessions, lunch, and an all-female IT professional panel. Co-organizer Dr. Funmi Olorunda, Professor and Department Chair of IT at Ivy Tech Muncie, states, “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to come together, celebrate each other, and connect with fellow female professionals and allies in the field. It’s a chance to share our experiences, learn from one another, and grow our professional networks.” The event also features a keynote from Linda Calvin, the founder of Indiana Women in Tech Week. 

This event is free, but registration is required. Registration is available at https://www.indianawomenintechweek.com/events. For all questions regarding the event, please get in touch with Dr. Funmi Olorunda at oolorunda@ivytech.edu. 

For media inquiries, please get in touch with Kristen Smith at kirstensmith@bsu.edu. 

Women in Tech Week 

Women IN Tech Week is a dedicated celebration aimed at illuminating the stories and contributions of remarkable women who bring immense value to the Technology industry. In a world where diversity and inclusion are paramount, this week-long event stands as a beacon, casting a spotlight on the incredible women shaping the landscape of technology. Please visit www.indianawomenintechweek.com for more information. 

New Book Study: “Holy Habits: 10 Small Decisions That Lead to a Big Life”

We are excited to announce a new book study series starting September 11th. Join us for a transformative five-session book study on Noah Herrin’s inspiring book, “Holy Habits: 10 Small Decisions That Lead to a Big Life.” Leading the study is Mr. Ted Ward. Starting on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 7:30-8:30 am, with additional sessions on September 25, October 9, October 23, and November 6, this study will guide you through ten impactful habits designed to deepen your spiritual life and bring you closer to Jesus. The sessions will take place at the Muncie Innovation Connector, located at 1208 West White River Blvd., Muncie, IN 47303.

 

For more information and to register click here.

Office Space for Rent

Are you looking for the perfect office space? Look no further, The Innovation Connector has a rare opportunity with office space available now. With so many different perks like having coworking space, a kitchen area, lobby space, training rooms and much more, this is the place to be for your business!

This rare opportunity to secure a workspace in such a dynamic setting won’t last long. Our central location, modern facilities, and supportive atmosphere make us the perfect place to grow your business. Take advantage of our amazing amenities highlighted below

Adjustable desks
High-speed WiFi
Unique Business Address &
Mailbox Color Copier, Scanner, Printer & Fax
Electronic Building & Office Security
Great Parking
24/7 Access and So Much More!

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or leading a growing team, this space would be perfect just for you! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your business in an environment designed for success.

Ready to find your perfect workspace? Stop by today at 1208 W. White River Blvd., Muncie, IN 47303, or click here to learn more about our space.  to start working or to learn more about our available office. We’d love to show you around and help you discover how the Innovation Connector can be the key to your business’s success. Join us and become part of a thriving community where innovation happens every day.

Grant Writing Mastery Workshop: POSTPONED

This event has been postponed. 

Are you ready to elevate your grant writing skills to the next level? Whether you’re a seasoned writer looking to refine your techniques or a newcomer eager to learn the ropes, the Grant Writing Mastery Workshop is designed to help you maximize your chances of winning grants. Join us on August 17th, 2024, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM at the Innovation Connector. Led by Dr. Teresa Jeter, who brings over 25 years of successful grant proposal writing experience, this workshop provides invaluable insights and practical skills.

Dr. Jeter’s vast experience and proven track record make her the ideal mentor to guide you through the complexities of grant writing. Throughout the day, you will learn to effectively communicate your project’s significance, showcase its feasibility, and illustrate desired outcomes. You will also master the art of crafting compelling project narratives and conducting research to identify the best funders for your projects. Gain a deep understanding of what funders want and how to meet their expectations, and learn to draft compelling budgets and budget narratives that stand out.

This workshop is perfect for seasoned writers seeking to refine their techniques and stay ahead in the competitive world of grant writing, as well as for newcomers looking to gain foundational skills. In addition to comprehensive training, you’ll enjoy lunch and snack breaks, providing the perfect opportunity to network with other participants and share insights.

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. The fee for the workshop is $199, which includes lunch and snack breaks. Register now and take the first step towards mastering the art of grant writing. We look forward to seeing you there! 

Your Perfect Workspace Awaits at the Innovation Connector

Welcome to the Innovation Connector! We’re here to make your work life easier and more productive. Did you know that we have space available for you for free? If you are in between meetings and don’t need an entire room, our lobby has amazing amenities like adjustable desks and high-speed WiFi with no cost to you!

We also have offices for rent, as well as conference and training rooms. Whether you are hosting a meeting, training seminar, etc. we have you covered.

When you choose the Innovation Connector, you’re not just getting a workspace – you’re joining a vibrant community of innovators and entrepreneurs. Our central location, modern facilities, and supportive environment make us the perfect place to grow your business.

Ready to find your perfect workspace? Stop by today 1208 W. White River Blvd. Muncie, IN 47303 to start working or to learn more about our available offices and conference rooms. We’d love to show you around!

Innovation Connector Launches Business Health Check at Muncie on the Move

On June 4, 2024, the Innovation Connector proudly introduced its new Business Health Check program during the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce’s Muncie on the Move event held at the Horizon Center. This exciting initiative is designed to provide businesses with expert guidance to improve their performance and ensure long-term success.

Mrs. Smith, Nurse Smith & Dr. Baker: Photo courtesy of Matt Howell

The highlight of the event was a memorable short skit by Ted Baker, who took the stage dressed as Dr. Baker, Kirsten Smith, playing the part of the struggling business owner, Ashli Smith, playing the nurse and Natalie Smith playing the narrator.  (No relation between all the Smiths!) In a creative and engaging skit, he diagnosed the business ailments of Mrs. Smith, providing a vivid illustration of the types of issues the Business Health Check program aims to address.

Business Health Check, Your Business RX, offers a comprehensive analysis of various critical business components, including:

  • Business Analysis of Financial Performance
  • Operational Efficiency
  • Risk Assessment
  • Adaptability
  • Health and Wellness Review of Organizations, Business Owners, and Leaders

    • Narrator Smith: Photo courtesy of Matt Howell

    During the presentation, attendees gained valuable insights into how the Business Health Check can help identify weaknesses and strengths within their operations, much like a medical check-up.

    The Innovation Connector is proud to be a member of the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce and appreciates those in attendance for Muncie on the Move.  For more information about the Business Health Check, please click here.

    Save the Date: Business Showcase Week is Back for 2024!

    The 3rd Annual Business Showcase Week is set to return in 2024, November 18th-23rd! Over the past two years, the Innovation Connector has proudly hosted Entrepreneur Showcase Week, providing a platform to learn, celebrate, and network with local entrepreneurs. Save the dates: November 18th-23rd. Stay tuned for more details in the coming months—Business Showcase Week 2024 is shaping up to be the best one yet!