Where Ideas Take Flight and Visionaries Soar!
As the premier institute for entrepreneurial excellence, we empower bold thinkers and ambitious doers to transform ideas into thriving ventures. Through cutting-edge curriculum, real-world mentorship, and exclusive access to startup resources, we cultivate the next generation of innovators, visionaries, and business leaders.


Entrepreneurship
Major
Shape your future with a degree that sparks creativity, drives innovation, and paves the way for a thriving entrepreneurial career. Designed to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, this program equips you with the skills to identify opportunities, take calculated risks, and build impactful ventures from the ground up.
START YOUR FUTURE

Entrepreneurship
Minor
Harness the power of entrepreneurship with a degree that combines innovative thinking
and your personal passion, empowering you to turn bold ideas into real-world impact.
Through hands-on learning, mentorship from industry experts, and access to cutting-edge
resources.


Entrepreneurship
Masters Degree
Designed for driven professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of corporate
innovation or embark on the path to launching their own venture, this program is ideal
for those aspiring to lead with impact in today’s dynamic business landscape.


Digital Media Design Major
Students will build a strong foundation in interactive design, motion graphics, game
development, and visual communication, developing the creative and technical skills
needed to craft impactful digital experiences across diverse platforms.
Co-Curricular Programs
name | image | day | month | year | time | duration | color | location | description | image_alt |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program Networking Event | 10 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Incubator Space – Lucas Hall 104 |
Join us for the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program Networking Event, where student entrepreneurs and veteran business owners come together to showcase
their innovative ventures. This dynamic event provides a platform for participants
to present their business ideas to a live audience, including investors, industry
experts, and fellow entrepreneurs, as they compete for Equity Seed Funding opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to engage in high-impact networking, gain valuable
insights from successful entrepreneurs, and explore collaboration opportunities. Whether
you're a startup founder, investor, or supporter of veteran entrepreneurship, this
event is the perfect place to connect, learn, and contribute to the growth of veteran-led
businesses. Don't miss this opportunity to witness groundbreaking ideas, support veteran entrepreneurs, and be part of a thriving business community! |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Training Session | 12 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 326 |
This six-week training session is designed exclusively for current Growth Cohort participants in the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program. Sessions will focus on refining business operations, scaling ventures, and setting long-term strategic goals. Topics covered include financial planning, stakeholder management, accessing capital, team growth, and pitching strategies. |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Training Session | 17 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 325 |
This six-week training session is designed exclusively for current Growth Cohort participants in the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program. Sessions will focus on refining business operations, scaling ventures, and setting long-term strategic goals. Topics covered include financial planning, stakeholder management, accessing capital, team growth, and pitching strategies. |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Training Session | 19 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 326 |
This six-week training session is designed exclusively for current Growth Cohort participants in the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program. Sessions will focus on refining business operations, scaling ventures, and setting long-term strategic goals. Topics covered include financial planning, stakeholder management, accessing capital, team growth, and pitching strategies. |
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Say Yes to the Nest Admission Event | 22 | 03 | 2025 | 9:00 am | 1 | 1 | Incubator Space – Lucas Hall 104 | |||
Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Community Workshop | 24 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 325 |
Business Analytics & Data-Driven Decision-Making Workshop Join us for an insightful and hands-on workshop designed to help veteran entrepreneurs harness the power of business analytics to make informed, strategic decisions. Hosted by the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU, this session will provide practical tools and techniques to leverage data for business success. Whether you’re new to analytics or looking to refine your approach, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge and resources to enhance decision-making, optimize operations, and drive business growth. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, and take your business to the next level with data-driven strategies! |
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Azul’s Innovation Challenge Trade Show | 25 | 03 | 2025 | 11:00 am | 1 | 4 | Incubator Space – Lucas Hall 104 |
March 25: Trade Show & Elevator Pitch Competition (11 AM - 2 PM, Lucas Hall): Focusing on bold ideas that are ready to soar, Azul's Innovation Challenge celebrates the innovative potential of FGCU’s community. Whether you're launching a startup, scaling a business, or igniting your entrepreneurial mindset, this is where your journey begins. Join us to turn your big idea into reality! |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Training Session | 26 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 326 |
This six-week training session is designed exclusively for current Growth Cohort participants in the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program. Sessions will focus on refining business operations, scaling ventures, and setting long-term strategic goals. Topics covered include financial planning, stakeholder management, accessing capital, team growth, and pitching strategies. |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Community Workshop | 31 | 03 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 325 |
Automation Tools for Small Business Efficiency Workshop Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop designed to help veteran entrepreneurs streamline operations, reduce manual workloads, and boost productivity through automation. Hosted by the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU, this session will provide the essential tools and strategies needed to integrate automation seamlessly into daily business operations. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to refine existing processes, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to work smarter, not harder. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and transform your business with cutting-edge automation tools! |
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A FIRESIDE CHAT: AI ASSISTED ENTREPRENEURSHIP | 01 | 04 | 2025 | 5:30 pm | 1 | 12 | The Water School (AB 9) Room 138 10501 FGCU Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33965 |
Clarence Wooten Event Location: Water School Event Time: 5:30 PM Join us for an insightful discussion on AI and Entrepreneurship with Clarence Wooten, a visionary serial entrepreneur and investor. Learn about the intersection of artificial intelligence and startups, gain valuable insights on innovation, and connect with like-minded individuals in a premier networking opportunity. Event includes fireside chat with lecture and Q & A. Light refreshments, book signing and networking to follow. For more information email: engage@fgcu.edu |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Training Session | 02 | 04 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 326 |
This six-week training session is designed exclusively for current Growth Cohort participants in the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program. Sessions will focus on refining business operations, scaling ventures, and setting long-term strategic goals. Topics covered include financial planning, stakeholder management, accessing capital, team growth, and pitching strategies. |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Community Workshop | 07 | 04 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 325 |
Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop designed to help veteran entrepreneurs streamline operations, reduce manual workloads, and boost productivity through automation. Hosted by the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU, this session will provide the essential tools and strategies needed to integrate automation seamlessly into daily business operations. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to refine existing processes, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to work smarter, not harder. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and transform your business with cutting-edge automation tools! |
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Women in Entrepreneurship | 08 | 04 | 2025 | 4:30 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 104 - Incubator Space |
Join Us for an Inspiring Evening at the Women in Entrepreneurship Panel At CEO Club, we believe in the power of innovation, resilience, and leadership. That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to an empowering panel discussion featuring accomplished women entrepreneurs who are shaping industries and redefining success. This is more than just a conversation—it’s an opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship from visionary leaders. Whether you're launching your own startup or looking to take your business to the next level, this panel will provide valuable lessons, strategies, and inspiration to help you navigate your journey. Come connect, learn, and be inspired. The future of entrepreneurship is bold, diverse, and limitless—just like the women leading it. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation. See you there! |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Community Workshop | 14 | 04 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 325 |
Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop designed to help veteran entrepreneurs build a strong, values-driven company culture that supports long-term success. Hosted by the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU, this session will provide practical strategies to align culture with your mission, foster employee engagement, and promote collaboration across your team. Whether you're building your team from the ground up or refining your current workplace culture, this workshop will equip you with the tools to create an environment where both people and business thrive. Don't miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and strengthen your leadership through culture! |
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CEO Club Networking Event | 15 | 04 | 2025 | 4:30 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 104 - Incubator Space |
Engage in a dynamic networking experience led by Kena Yoke, who will guide attendees through an interactive exercise designed to build meaningful connections. Enjoy pizza, meet with a mentor, and sharpen your skills by practicing your pitch for the Runway Program in a relaxed and supportive setting. |
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DKSOE Stole Ceremony and Student of the Year Awards | 16 | 04 | 2025 | 4:00 pm | 1 | 12 | Lucas Hall 104 - Incubator Space | |||
Azul’s Innovation Challenge Final Pitch Competition | 17 | 04 | 2025 | 4:00 pm | 1 | 12 | The Water School (AB 9) Room 138 10501 FGCU Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33965 |
Mark your calendars for April 17, 2025—the night where bold ideas take center stage in an electrifying Shark Tank-style showdown! Six powerhouse teams will battle it out, pitching groundbreaking innovations in a high-energy competition that could change everything. Azul's Innovation Challenge isn’t just an event—it’s a launchpad for visionaries, a celebration of unstoppable ambition, and the place where dreams turn into reality. Whether you’re building a startup, scaling a business, or fueling your entrepreneurial fire, this is where you take flight. Meet the Innovators Behind the Next Big Ideas:
These entrepreneurs are redefining industries with their innovative solutions—get ready to witness the future of business! |
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Digital Media Design Senior Showcase | 21 | 04 | 2025 | 5:00 pm | 1 | 12 | Lucas Hall |
Come celebrate the creative work of our graduating Digital Media Design students as they unveil their final projects. This semester’s theme "Constellation of Creativity" is an immersive gallery experience, don’t miss it! Light refreshments will be provided. |
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CEO Club Replit Hackathon | 22 | 04 | 2025 | 4:30 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 104 - Incubator Space |
Wrap up the year with collaboration, and creativity with a Replit-powered hackathon! This event provides access to a Replit subscription and a platform to showcase innovation and coding skills. The first 30 people who show up will get $25 credit towards Replit paid for them courtesy of CEO Club |
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Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Community Workshop | 23 | 04 | 2025 | 6:00 pm | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall 325 |
Join us for an engaging and hands-on workshop designed to help veteran entrepreneurs craft compelling business pitches that leave a lasting impression. Hosted by the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU, this session will provide practical tools and techniques to clearly communicate your value, tailor your message to different audiences, and confidently handle Q&A. Whether you're preparing for an investor meeting, pitching a partnership, or networking with potential customers, this workshop will help you refine your pitch and deliver it with clarity and confidence. |
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DMD Senior Show Defense | 07 | 07 | 2025 | 1 | Lucas Hall |
Join us for the Digital Media Design Senior Show, a vibrant celebration of creativity and innovation showcasing the capstone projects of our graduating seniors. This exhibition highlights cutting-edge work in digital art, interactive media, graphic design, and animation, reflecting the unique visions and technical expertise of our talented students. From immersive installations to dynamic web experiences, each project pushes the boundaries of digital storytelling and design. |
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Operation Take Flight Pitch Showcase | 26 | 04 | 2025 | 9:00 am | 1 | 12 | Lucas Hall |
Join us for the Veterans Florida Growth Program & FGCU Runway Program Spring 2025 Pitch Competition! See the culmination of our Veteran + Runway Program business pitches. Witness innovative ideas take flight as participants showcase their ventures and compete for success!
The evening will feature two pitch competitions, one for the Spring 2025 Veterans Florida Growth cohort and another for the FGCU Runway Program Spring cohort, highlighting the top business ideas developed in each program. In addition, a poster-style trade show will spotlight other Runway Program participants who didn’t make the top 15, offering them the opportunity to promote their businesses and connect with the community. It’s a unique chance to network with veterans, student entrepreneurs, local business leaders, and resource providers. Come celebrate innovation, collaboration, and the entrepreneurial spirit in a supportive environment open to all. Over $150,00 in prizes! |
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Eagle Excel | 14 | 08 | 2025 | 9:00 am | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall - Incubator |
Eagle Excel Day is an exciting opportunity to discover what the FGCU Daveler & Kauanui
School of Entrepreneurship is all about. During this engaging event, you’ll learn
what to expect as a student, explore course offerings, connect with faculty and peers,
and get a feel for the school's innovative and collaborative culture. From hands-on
activities to insider insights about classes and campus resources, Eagle Excel Day
helps you start your FGCU journey with confidence and inspiration. Ever thought about launching your own business? Are you a thinker, a dreamer, an idea person? Let’s turn that 'what if' into 'what’s next.' Join us and bring your ideas to life—your entrepreneurship journey starts here. Dates & Location: August 14 & 15 Lucas Hall Edwards Hall 112 Breakfast 8-9 Lunch 12-1 Program Fee: $50 Whats Included:
Register here |
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Eagle Excel | 15 | 08 | 2025 | 9:00 am | 1 | 3 | Lucas Hall - Incubator |
Eagle Excel Day is an exciting opportunity to discover what the FGCU Daveler & Kauanui
School of Entrepreneurship is all about. During this engaging event, you’ll learn
what to expect as a student, explore course offerings, connect with faculty and peers,
and get a feel for the school's innovative and collaborative culture. From hands-on
activities to insider insights about classes and campus resources, Eagle Excel Day
helps you start your FGCU journey with confidence and inspiration. Ever thought about launching your own business? Are you a thinker, a dreamer, an idea person? Let’s turn that 'what if' into 'what’s next.' Join us and bring your ideas to life—your entrepreneurship journey starts here. Dates & Location: August 14 & 15 Lucas Hall Edwards Hall 112 Breakfast 8-9 Lunch 12-1 Program Fee: $50 Whats Included:
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DKSOE Beach Party | 22 | 08 | 2025 | 4:00 pm | 1 | 12 | Lucas Hall |
🌴 DKSOE Beach Party – Welcome Back Bash! Join the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship and Digital Media Design (DMD) programs as we kick off the fall semester with an unforgettable beach-themed bash! This is your chance to reconnect, meet new classmates, and celebrate the start of an exciting academic year. Enjoy a packed lineup of fun including: Whether you're a returning student or new to the program, come ready to relax, laugh, and dive into the DKSOE community spirit. See you there! |
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Runway Class Presentation | 19 | 08 | 2025 | 10:00 | 3 | Lucas Hall - Room 303 |
Voices of Impact: The Changemaker Speaker Series
AUGUST 28, 2025
KRISTEN COURY - CEO and Producing Artistic Director
Kristen Coury is the Founder, CEO, and Producing Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse, which she established in 2004. Starting with no staff and minimal funding, she quickly began producing professional theatre, driven by a bold vision for cultural excellence in Southwest Florida.
Under her leadership, Gulfshore Playhouse has grown into a thriving organization with
more than 80 employees and an annual budget of $11.8 million—all achieved without
debt. Kristen also spearheaded the creation of a transformative $72 million state-of-the-art
Theatre and Education Center, located at the gateway to downtown Naples, which is
set to open to the public in late 2024.
Kristen’s work has earned her widespread recognition. She was named one of Gulfshore Life Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” in 2008, a “Star in the Arts” by the United Arts Council of Collier County in 2011, and one of Gulfshore Life’s Men and Women of the Year in both 2013 and 2024. In 2023, she received the prestigious Murray Hendel Award for Civic Achievement. Most recently, Kristen was appointed to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, continuing her commitment to advancing the arts across the state.
August 28, 2025 - The Home for Entrepreneurship: Lucas Hall - 5:30pmSEPTEMBER 11, 2025
MARC APPLEMAN - Sport Media Entertainment
An innovative and forward-thinking sports executive, known for developing and executing strategic visions that drive organizational growth and business development. With deep expertise across media, management, and sports entertainment, he has led and transformed organizations at every level.
He is the Co-Founder and President of Sport Media Entertainment Inc., and formerly served as CEO of SABR (Society for American Baseball Research). His media leadership spans top-tier brands, having held senior executive, editorial, writing, and production roles at ESPN, Fox Sports, AOL Sports, Sports Illustrated for Kids, WWE, Active, and Nobok Sports. A dedicated advocate for education and industry mentorship, he served as an Adjunct Professor at the George Polk School of Communications at LIU (Spring 2021) and has been a guest lecturer at Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
September 11, 2025 - The Home for Entrepreneurship: Lucas Hall - 5:30pm
OCTOBE 22, 2025
Jonas Pilz - Maxon
Jonas Pilz is a Maxon Master Trainer dedicated to educating professional 3D artists at all skill levels. He leads the training and certification of Cinema 4D instructors through the Maxon Certification Program, ensuring the highest quality expertise in the industry. Maxon One brings together Cinema 4D, Forger, Red Giant, Redshift, Universe, and ZBrush into a seamless, all-in-one platform designed for 3D artists, animators, and filmmakers. Whether you are creating breathtaking motion graphics, lifelike digital sculptures, or cinematic visual effects, Maxon One provides powerful, industry-leading tools trusted by professionals worldwide. This virtual event features Jonas demonstrating the stunning effects you have seen in movies, showing how these tools can bring your creative vision to life.
Customers use our comprehensive suite of tools, Maxon One, for a wide variety of projects and industries, including: Games — “God of War: Ragnarök,” “The Last of Us,” and “League of Legends.” Films/TV Series — “Godzilla Minus One,” “Avatar: The Way of Water,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” and “Raised by Wolves.” Props/Sets — Lady Gaga’s tree piano for the Chromatica Ball Tour. Music videos — Mitski, Weezer, Ed Sheeran, and Foo Fighters. Product launches — Mulberry, Nike, Volvo, and Google. As well as sports graphics, medical animation, dentistry, toys and figurines, jewelry and fashion design, and manufacturing.
October 22, 2025 - The Home for Entrepreneurship: Lucas Hall - 5:30pm
The Home for Entrepreneurship: Lucas Hall
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Business Incubator
Toggle More InfoThe first floor is home to the Runway Program. It features an expansive and modern training space, mentorship rooms, a large conference room, a lounge area, and the program's administrative offices.
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Classrooms
Toggle More InfoThe large classrooms on the second and third floor are perfect spaces for collaborative learning. They are equipped with modern technology but also large whiteboards for creative exercises.
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Makerspace
Toggle More InfoHome to the makers and creators among us. This space has all types of high-tech equipment, including 3D printers, a laser printer, sewing machine, VR equipment, and much more.
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Media Room
Toggle More InfoQuiet please. This room is soundproofed and light controlled for the best possible media recording space. Take your recordings to our brand new Macs for post-production.
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Computer Room
Toggle More InfoA large computer room on the third floor has the best view in the building. It also has powerful computers to help you bring your ideas to life.
Entrepreneurs Come From Everywhere
Musician turned entrepreneur, Jade Gibson ('19), turned her passion for playing music into a successful luxury wedding and event entertainment company, called Jade Strings. With the knowledge gained through classes and mentoring, Jade now has over 200 clients.
Transferring Military Skills to Startup Life
Marine Corps Veteran, Corey Umstott ('20), had a dream of owning an auto repair shop one day, and through the FGCU Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program, Corey now owns and operates a profitable mobile auto repair company called Eagle Auto Repair.
Medical marvels Through The eyes of a Pig
Makenzie Whitaker ('19) was a Runway Program Participant, an English Major with an Entrepreneurship Minor, and is a kidney transplant survivor. She brought her dream to life with her book, The Kidney Kronicles, to help kids and families through difficult medical procedures.
Accreditation Information
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral degrees, which includes the degrees offered through the Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship.
Additional information on FGCU institutional accreditation is available at www.fgcu.edu/accreditation.

Have a Concern or Complaint?
At FGCU, we are committed to fostering a fair and supportive environment for all students. If you have an academic or non-academic concern that requires resolution, Student Complaints provides a clear process to ensure your voice is heard.