Ready to turn your idea into reality?

The Student Incubator within Start Something College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) provides the essential resources and support for aspiring student entrepreneurs. Join a dynamic cohort of innovators and take your business idea to the next level!

What We Offer:

• Training and Knowledge: Learn the Business Model Canvas and Lean Startup methodologies to rapidly test and validate your business assumption as well as gain knowledge on specific business situations and challenges.
• Mentorship: Gain insights and guidance from experienced industry innovators, entrepreneurs, and disruptors.
• Collaborative Environment: Work alongside fellow student entrepreneurs, share ideas, and receive constructive feedback.
• Support and Resources: Access workspace, funding opportunities, networking events, and more!

How to Join:

All students are welcome to apply! Applications are accepted during all times of the fall and spring semester; however, don't delay as you will miss out on the chance to join the Student Incubator weekly meetings and transformational experiences.

Success Stories:

Our Student Incubator has helped launch numerous successful ventures. Here are a few examples of businesses that started in our incubator.

Continuum Ag, LLC: A soil health company founded by Mitchell Hora. The company leverages custom analytic software to quantify and improve soil health globally. Continuum Ag has amassed the largest private data set of soil health information, helping to put them at the forefront of promoting sustainable farming practices and soil health utilizing technology and data-driven solutions.

Hightail Delivery: Founded by Natalie (Eick) Paino, Hightail Delivery focuses on delivering fresh, locally-grown food products directly to consumers' doorsteps. While starting with ice cream, offerings have expanded to include other products such as meat. Hightail Delivery is promoting local agriculture and providing access to high-quality, fresh products.

ScoutPro: An ag technology company, founded by Michael Koenig, Holden Nyhus, and Stuart McCulloh, that developed a mobile app to assist with crop scouting by identifying pests, diseases, and other issues. In 2020, ScoutPro was integrated into the digital products available for agricultural professionals through Farmers Edge.