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

Read more

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.

ECIRPD Trunk or Treat at the Innovation Connector

The East Central Indiana Regional Planning District (ECIRPD) invites you and your family to a fun and festive evening at the Innovation Connector. Join us on Saturday, October 25th, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at the Innovation Connector, located at 1208 W White River Blvd., Muncie.

This free community event is made possible through the support of ECIRPD, the Innovation Connector, and several local organizations, all coming together to create a safe and enjoyable experience for families. Children can collect candy during the Trunk or Treat, bounce and play in the bouncy houses, and enjoy connecting with friends, neighbors, and local partners.

Whether you’re coming for the candy, the costumes, or the community spirit, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

To RSVP, please contact Anna King-Cross at aking-cross@ecirpd.org.

Human Resources and Business Operations Services at the Innovation Connector

For many business owners, managing employees can quickly become one of the most challenging aspects of running a company. Hiring, training, compliance, and employee relations all require time, knowledge, and careful attention. Unless your business is large enough to have a dedicated HR professional on staff, these responsibilities often fall on the owner or leadership team—taking valuable time away from other essential areas of the business.

At the Innovation Connector, we understand that effective human resource management is critical to building a strong, thriving workplace. We offer guidance on HR best practices, helping you address everything from onboarding and employee handbooks to workplace culture and conflict resolution. Whether you’re navigating new employment laws or seeking ways to improve team communication, our resources and expertise can help you create a supportive, compliant, and productive work environment. 

Alongside HR support, we also help strengthen your business operations—the systems and processes that keep your company running day-to-day. This can include evaluating and improving workflows, setting up project management tools, refining customer service processes, developing standard operating procedures, and implementing time and cost-saving strategies. We can work with you to create clear operational structures, improve efficiency, and ensure your internal processes support your long-term goals. 

When you need specialized help beyond our in-house expertise, we connect you with trusted HR and business operations professionals in our network. These vetted specialists can provide the depth of knowledge required for complex situations, from legal compliance to advanced organizational development. Our mission is to be your partner in creating a workplace and operational structure that supports both your people and your business goals.

Interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation?

Call us at 765.216.5900 or visit innovationconnector.com to get started. 

AI in Action: Tracking and Improving Marketing ROI Workshop

Read more

Bridging the Gap: How Muncie’s New Mentorship Hub Will Transform Entrepreneurial Success

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

August 17, 2025

In the world of entrepreneurship, the challenges are constant: managing cash flow, building customer relationships, hiring the right people, and adapting to market changes. For business owners in Muncie and the surrounding region, these pressures are compounded by a persistent challenge. Too many entrepreneurs are facing them alone.

While Muncie has a rich base of talented and experienced business leaders, many new and growing entrepreneurs don’t have easy access to that knowledge. The result? Missed opportunities, preventable mistakes, and businesses that never reach their full potential.

Ted Baker, CEO of the Innovation Connector, puts it plainly:
“The business journey is too complex for anyone to travel alone. In Muncie, we’ve seen too many promising ideas stall or fail simply because entrepreneurs didn’t have access to the right guidance at the right time. The Muncie Regional Mentorship Hub is designed to change that.”

A Strategic Response to a Local and Regional Need 

Recognizing this gap in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, the Muncie Innovation Connector and the City of Muncie, with support from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, are launching the Muncie Regional Mentorship Hub.

The Hub is an organized, intentional system for connecting business owners and entrepreneurs with seasoned mentors who can provide targeted, relevant guidance. Unlike casual networking, this program uses a structured approach to match mentees with mentors based on industry experience, business stage, and specific goals.

Dustin Clark, Project Lead for the City of Muncie, sees this as more than a program. He sees it as an investment in economic development. “When we support small business owners and entrepreneurs, we build more than individual success stories. We are building a stronger Muncie. This mentorship hub is a way to put that support into action in a targeted, meaningful way.”

Why Mentorship Works and Why It Matters Here

Research underscores what local business leaders already know. Mentorship has a measurable impact on business survival and growth.

  • 70% of mentored small businesses survive more than five years — twice the rate of non-mentored businesses (U.S. SBA).
  • 92% of small business owners say mentors directly impact their growth and survival (Sage).
  • Entrepreneurs with mentors are three times more likely to experience business growth (Micro Mentor).

In Muncie, these statistics translate into real impact. With stronger mentorship connections, local entrepreneurs can access the know-how to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and create more resilient businesses.

Adam Bouse, owner of Optimistic Coaching, has seen the human side of this impact.
“Running a business can feel isolating. A mentor doesn’t just give you advice. Mentors and coaches remind you that you’re not alone, that someone believes in you. They can help you see paths forward when you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or burned out.”

Building a Stronger Entrepreneurial Community

The Muncie Regional Mentorship Hub is open to entrepreneurs at every stage — from those still shaping a business idea to seasoned owners ready to scale. Likewise, the Hub welcomes experienced business leaders who want to share their knowledge and give back to the community.

With a structured approach, a deep pool of local expertise, and the backing of major community partners, this initiative is poised to become a cornerstone of Muncie’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

To sign up as a mentor or mentee, visit www.munciementorship.com/apply or call
765-216-5900 for more information.