We've got a full month ahead of us
The Latest & Greatest from LaunchNET Kent State
Where do I begin. We have so much to get through in the shortest month of the year.

This newsletter is full to the brim so I won't put you through even more up here, but just hang with me for a few scrolls okay. I think it'll be worth your time.

Highlights for the Week: scholarships and accelerators, pitch competitions (!), law and order, crafting, Black History Month and art, and our friends, of course.
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If you are a current client, click the button above to schedule with your advisor.
 
If you haven't met with a LaunchNET advisor yet, you can sign up at bdmorganfdn.org/neolaunchnet/apply
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News & Announcements
Ask a Lawyer: Workshop & Drop-Ins
Have general legal questions about your startup but don’t know where to start? This session is designed for entrepreneurs who need guidance on various legal aspects of their business. Featuring a workshop and one-on-one drop-ins.

Wednesday, February 19 from 10am-12pm
Register Here
Virtual Alumni Cohort: Automate Your Business
This session will provide information about using the proper tools for streamlining business operations. Attendees will discover practical strategies to save time, reduce costs and enhance efficiency in their entrepreneurial journey.

Thursday, February 20 from 6-7pm
Join Us
ideaLabs Pitch Competition
Do you have what it takes to represent Kent State at "regionals?" LaunchNET is looking for three entrepreneurs or teams to send to the EEC's ideaLabs pitch competition on April 8, 2025 at Eaton Headquarters in Cleveland. The three selected undergraduate entrepreneurs/teams will receive a $500 microgrant from LaunchNET and have the opportunity to pitch for up to $2,750 in funding.

Apply by Friday, February 28
Learn More & Apply
Crafterpreneur Day
Have a crafting business or always wanted to start one? Join us for Crafterpreneur Day, where you can learn the basics of branding, marketing, and pricing your crafted products. Along with tote bag making and networking throughout the event!

Friday, February 28 from 1-4pm
Join Us
Marty Erbaugh Student Entrepreneur Scholarships
This $1,000 student scholarship will recognize outstanding, motivated graduate or undergraduate Kent State students who are regular clients of LaunchNET. Students do not need to specifically have a launched venture.

Applications due by Friday, March 7
Apply Here
Marty Erbaugh i3 Lab Summer Accelerator 
This application is for Kent State student entrepreneurs looking to further their ventures in the Marty Erbaugh i3 Lab accelerator program in Summer 2025. This is a unique, experiential employment opportunity including a $2,000 stipend.

Apply by Friday, March 7
Apply Here
Events & Opportunities
Artists Run the Streets™: BHMX Exhibition & Opening Reception
Artists Run the Streets BHMX Edition: A Celebration of Labor & Legacy The City of Cleveland proudly announces its third annual Black History Month exhibition, celebrating the national theme, African Americans and Labor. This year’s exhibit  highlights the profound impact of labor through the lens of six talented Cleveland artists.

Thursday, February 6 from 5-7:30pm
Free admission with RSVP
RSVP Here
2025 Spring Business Pitch | Brinzo Center
The Brinzo Center for Entrepreneurship hosts an annual pitch competition to help grow and nurture student startups. All KSU majors are welcome to apply either individually or as a team.

Finalists participate in a mentorship program to prepare for the live pitch event with a prize pool of $20,000!

Apply by Wednesday, February 12
Apply Here
Navigating the Lease Labyrinth | JumpStart
Are you ready to take your business to the next level by moving into a commercial space? This webinar will provide the knowledge and confidence you need to successfully navigate the leasing process.

Thursday, February 20 at 12pm
Sign Up
Founders & Friends
Delana Muse is a bridal brand rooted in the feeling of being free in love. Founded and designed by Kent State alumna, Sheila Salemme.

Frances Brunner is a fashion designer and recent Kent State graduate, creating to inspire the positive transformation of the individual and the industry. 

LaunchNET