FINSTAD ENTREPRENEURIAL GRANT
To date, the Finstad Program for Entrepreneurial Studies has given more than $500,000 to over 180 students to begin new ventures. Ventures that have been funded span an assortment of interesting fields such as music, jewelry, golf discs, apparel, discount coupons, boat building, importing, magazine publishing, beta fish breeding, bread making and private yoga instruction. Click here to see previous grant recipients.
The Finstad Grant program awards grants up to $3,000 to St. Olaf students or teams that develop the best business plan for an entrepreneurial venture. Funds are awarded to students for entrepreneurial projects with social and economic potential. Students propose an entrepreneurial idea, develop a business plan, acquire a faculty advisor and pitch their idea to a committee. If selected, students then carry out the plan with guidance from the Finstad Office.
If you are interested in applying make an appointment with John Stull or Blake Abdella.
Application deadlines are: October 17th, December 5th and March 6th
Application Process:
To apply for a Finstad Grant you need to supply the following materials prior to the application deadline:
1. A one page Resume that highlights your skills, abilities and experiences
2. A completed Application Form
3. A completed Faculty Advisor Recommendation Form
4. A completed Business Plan
** Please upload your resume (so you can select a pitch time) to OleRecruiting – when you login type Finstad Grant in the job & internship field in the center of your screen. Select Finstad Grant, scroll down click apply!!
If you are invited to present your plan you will need to prepare a powerpoint and projects will be judged according to the evaluation criteria.
The Finstad Office for Entrepreneurial Studies encourages ideas on campus or off campus, for profit or non-profit. Preference will be given to new entrepreneurial ideas and new applicants.
If awarded, the grants cover stipulated expenses incurred in the development of the business and students will agree to a number of terms and supply a milestone report. Students participating in this experience gain an understanding of the determination and focus required to build successful, sustainable ventures.
Monthly educational seminars are provided for all grant recipients to attend.
