Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship
Our Mission
The mission of the University of Kentucky's Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship (VACE), in keeping with the Gatton College of Business and Economics Strategic Plan, is to strengthen Kentucky’s economy through entrepreneurship and small business outreach in the Commonwealth. VACE serves students, staff, faculty, and community entrepreneurs with the goal to help launch their startup dreams. The Center seeks guidance from members on the advisory board as well as regional stakeholders to foster entrepreneurial education through webinars, online accelerator programming, and public events. VACE also connects entrepreneurs with mentors, Kentucky Angel Investors, and free access to downloadable books and templates. Check out the latest news, events, accelerator opportunities, and video library resources to get involved.
Events
News
VACE Winners Announced! 4th Annual CCTS "60-second Poster Pitch" Competition
Lexington, KY – On October 18, 2024, Destin George Bell appeared on ABC’s Shark Tank Season 16 premiere to pitch his company, Card.io. Destin is a native of Louisville, Kentucky and graduate from the Gatton College of Business and Economics at the University of Kentucky (UK). He received his undergraduate degree in marketing and pursued an entrepreneurial pathway as soon as he could.
University of Kentucky Participates in the 2024 SEC Pitch Competition!
Knoxville, TN - The Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, housed in the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Haslam College of Business, host the 2024 SEC Student Pitch Competition on October 17, 2024.
2025 GSE Summer Startup Program Accepting Applications!
The Governor's School for Entrepreneurs (GSE) Summer Startup program is now accepting applications for summer 2025. Deadline for submission is Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
