Entrepreneurship & Innovation Program

Prepare to chart your own course through our Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program. As a student, you have the opportunity to utilize and build upon your liberal arts education while learning the fundamentals of starting a venture and keeping a company relevant in this fast-changing world. 

Students shaking hands

Engage in startup related activity while connecting with alumni professionals, local business leaders, potential collaborators, experienced mentors, and the resources needed to take an idea to the next level.

As part of the Certificate in Entrepreneurship, students are required to attend ten (10) of the following events during their college career at 17³Ô¹ÏÍø. Events include site visits, the annual Innovation Challenge, Shark Tank Competitions, pitch competitions, and select events. Please speak with an advisor for more information.

Global Entrepreneurship & Innovation Workshop

This two-day bootcamp is designed to take participants through the process of breaking down a complex problem facing the environment, turning an idea into an actionable solution, and finally making a business model for it. Participants will learn about entrepreneurship, complex problem solving and human-centered design methodology. Join us to ideate, build and explore new ways to solve real problems using the power of business.

  • Registration is currently closed.

Company Site Visits

Monthly site visits expose students to the local business community, often including founders and CEOs. Getting off campus provides real-world exposure with tours at early-stage businesses, nonprofits and corporations. Discussions will include insights into the decision-making processes and some of the challenges businesses face. Potential for internship opportunities. 

  • Upcoming Visits
    • 2/28 - Hannover Insurance 10:00 - 2:00pm

Annual Cross Tank Competition


Have a business idea, plan, or prototype?  Participation in Cross Tank could result in some early stage funding, membership at a local incubator, and if you’re one of our winners…a chance to participate in Worcester’s intercollegiate competition WooTank!

WooTank: Intercollegiate Pitch Competition

The winner of the Cross Tank Competition will have the opportunity to compete in a city-wide competition against local colleges with real investors with the hopes of gaining investment and guidance.

  • 2025 Dates TBD

Innovation Challenge

Teams of students will collaborate with local businesses or nonprofits to address real-world issues. Working in teams, they'll present their solutions to a company representative as part of a panel of judges.  The most compelling pitches will win cash prizes.

  • Registration is currently closed.

Student Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Summit (SEES)

Recognizing that Worcester is a hub of innovation, this annual event connects students with entrepreneurial support organizations (ESOs) and ecosystem partners to bridge the gap of entry for college students pursuing their entrepreneurial ventures. Students are invited from all major colleges in the Worcester area.

  • 2025 Date TBD