On Thursday, June 25th, more than 200 community members, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and supporters gathered at the Innovation Connector for Muncie the Entrepreneurial, a celebration recognizing America’s 250th anniversary while honoring the entrepreneurs and small business owners who continue to shape our communities every day.
The evening brought the community together for an all-American menu, from hamburgers to the best elephant ears anywhere, and live music by local musician Mike Martin. More importantly, it created an opportunity for great networking as entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members came together to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to strengthen Muncie and East Central Indiana.
A special thank you to our exclusive partner, PrimeTrust Federal Credit Union, and to everyone who helped make this celebration possible. A big shout-out also goes to Ron Fauquher, IC Board Chair, Don Engel, IC Board Vice-Chair, and Defur Voran/Jim Borgmann, IC Board Treasurer, and Ted Baker, IC CEO, for providing additional funds that made this event extra special. Your support made it an evening to remember!
The event served as more than a community cookout; it was a celebration of the people who take an idea and turn it into something that creates jobs, strengthens local economies, and inspires future generations. For 250 years, innovation, determination, and entrepreneurship have driven our nation’s growth, and that same spirit is alive and well in Muncie today.
Celebrating the Entrepreneurs Who Move Our Community Forward
Entrepreneurs are the backbone of America’s economy. More than 99% of businesses in the United States are small businesses, and nearly every one of them began with someone willing to take a chance on an idea. Every successful business starts with one person who decides to solve a problem, create something new, or serve their community in a different way.
That entrepreneurial mindset is what the Innovation Connector has worked to support for more than two decades.
“We’ve never met two entrepreneurs who are alike,” said Baker. “Every business has a different story, different challenges, and different goals.”
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, the Innovation Connector helps entrepreneurs identify the path that’s right for them, providing guidance, resources, and connections that help turn ideas into successful businesses.
And according to Baker, seeing those businesses succeed never gets old.
“It’s a joy to watch entrepreneurs achieve their victories,” he said.
Looking Toward the Future
During the celebration, Baker also announced exciting plans for the Innovation Connector’s continued growth. With approximately 30 resident clients currently calling the Innovation Connector home, plans are underway to add additional space through a second building, allowing the organization to support even more entrepreneurs in the years ahead.
The Innovation Connector is proud to celebrate the entrepreneurs who have helped shape Muncie and will continue to do so. Because every great business starts with someone willing to take the first step—and the Innovation Connector is here to help guide them along the way.
