Innovation Hour
At the Dyer Center, we operate on a simple principle: innovation thrives on connection. That is the driving force behind Innovation Hour, a dynamic event held three times a semester that consistently sparks collaboration and fuels the entrepreneurial spirit within the Lafayette community. This is where the magic happens: students don’t just network, they actively build together.
The atmosphere is a blend of focused energy and relaxed conversation. Students, from seasoned leaders to first-years just exploring their ideas, gather over snacks, creating a vibrant, low-pressure environment for meeting potential co-founders and collaborators. It’s an essential antidote to the isolation of solitary work, a space where diverse perspectives meet to elevate a single idea.
The Spotlight on Student Ventures
The structure of Innovation Hour centers on active development. The floor opens for pitches, project updates, and direct calls for collaboration. Any idea is welcome here. We see the full spectrum of student enterprise, including:
- A student sharing an update on a new clothing line.
- A sophomore developing a non-profit to support an international community.
- A senior in the early stages of building a fantasy sports app.
- A first-year exploring how to use theatre to aid youth in juvenile detention centers.
Each presentation is met with engaged questions and insightful feedback, showcasing the supportive ecosystem we’ve cultivated. This is how ideas are actively shaped and refined, through collective wisdom, not just solo effort.
Deepening the Collaboration
The value extends well beyond the presentations. Conversations immediately deepen as students explore the nuances of each project, assessing how their unique skills (whether in design, finance, coding, or communication) can contribute to its success.
To ensure these connections have lasting power, we feature the Collaboration Station. This simple yet effective tool allows students to visually share their specific talents and project needs on index cards, fostering ongoing partnerships and expanding the reach of student ventures across the entire campus.
Innovation Hour is a direct reflection of the Dyer Center’s commitment to empowering student entrepreneurs. We are creating a functional space where ideas are not merely discussed, but actively brought to life. It illuminates the power of partnership, reminding the community that far more is achievable together than alone.
Ready to find your next great collaborator? Check the Dyer Center calendar for the date and time of our next Innovation Hour session!