Entrepreneurship & Innovation News and Updates

Discover how Colgate’s student innovators spent their summer taking ownership of real-world projects, building tools, and navigating early-stage ventures to drive lasting organizational impact and power their own future entrepreneurial ambitions.

Game designers Xalavier Nelson Jr. and Ashlyn Sparrow visited Colgate’s Vault to share how they forged their own paths in the video game industry. Drawing on very different backgrounds, both spoke about overcoming industry barriers and creating opportunities that gave them greater creative freedom. Their careers highlight the role of innovation and persistence in building spaces where games can have both artistic and social impact.

Thomas Sfikas ’28 and Anthony Bolivar ’28 joined the TIA Incubator to develop Raider Market, an AI-moderated marketplace app for Colgate students. Backed by mentorship and support from TIA, the platform aims to empower student entrepreneurs and streamline campus commerce.

Following a productive three-day intensive workshop, the TIA Summer Accelerator kicked off with three ventures: PLNT, Oasis Running, and SoundSync.

Despite studying abroad in Copenhagen, Sophie Martin ’27 maintained progress on her venture SoundSync by focusing on technical development and testing her concept with locals. This international perspective sparked a crucial pivot toward organic, human-driven music discovery.

13th Hour Espresso provides a convenient, new on-campus option for Colgate students lacking quality coffee. The student-run venture uses locally-sourced espresso beans from FoJo Beans and homemade syrups to deliver a premium experience.

Oasis Running is disrupting an industry dominated by corporate giants by manufacturing affordable, accessible, and highly customizable running kits. Defying generic uniform trends, it empowers teams to race in gear that reflects their unique identity.

The TIA Internship Program helps students gain valuable career skills, hands-on business experience, and expanded professional networks. Working directly with experts shapes their job interests and fundamentally changes how they solve problems.

During “A conversation with Ben Cohen,” the co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream emphasized that authenticity builds natural brand trust and that corporations must use their political influence for social good to create a meaningful, lasting impact on society.

At Colgate’s 2026 Arts, Creativity, and Innovation Weekend, actress Tracee Ellis Ross shared her entrepreneurial journey and life lessons with students. Ross discussed creating Pattern Beauty to celebrate Black beauty, the necessity of rigorous rehearsal, and the importance of prioritizing well-being through authenticity and perseverance.