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Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Center for Entrepreneurship
and Innovation

Create What Comes Next
for the Success of Your Business

Are you a local business owner looking to find ways to utilize AI, someone who is facing challenges in the market, or a student with an idea ready to materialize? Entrepreneurship is more than a collection of courses or a new business idea. It is a mindset that inspires innovation, risk-taking and seizing opportunities.

The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation (CEI) in the Mike Cottrell College of Business at Â鶹ÊÓƵ engages with students, community members, and industry experts who imagine, innovate, start and grow new and existing ventures. CEI Initiatives are designed to spark entrepreneurial efforts and become the go-to place for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs across the north Georgia region.

InnovateÂ鶹ÊÓƵ Roadshow

Drop into the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation for one-on-one guidance on the innovateÂ鶹ÊÓƵ Pitch Challenge. This is your chance to get answers on eligibility, deadlines, and submissions, and receive direct feedback to refine and strengthen your business or innovation concept before you apply.

Dahlonega: 

Oconee:  

Gainesville:  

Blue Ridge:  

Cumming: 

Pitch Development Workshops  

Every great idea needs a great story. Join this interactive workshop led by a Â鶹ÊÓƵ entrepreneurship professor to transform your concept into a clear, captivating narrative that inspires action and wins over judges.

You'll learn proven techniques to shape your ideas and refine your message, helping you master the storytelling art of a successful founder. Whether you're preparing for the innovateÂ鶹ÊÓƵ Pitch Challenge or simply want to communicate like a founder, this session makes your message unforgettable.

Dahlonega: 

Virtual (Online, OCN, BR): 

Cumming: 

Start your Innovation Journey Today

The Launchpad

The Launchpad serves as the starting point to entrepreneurship and innovation.

  • Workshops and training programs
  • Mentorship opportunities for all ages
  • Community events and networking
  • Resource access for entrepreneurs
  • Collaborative workspaces

Workshops/Events and Programs

Join our workshops/events covering topics like:

  • Digital marketing
  • Utilizing AI
  • Future skills training
  • Bi-weekly coffee chats
  • Open consultation hours

Resource Navigator

The Â鶹ÊÓƵ Resource Navigator is a free tool that connects entrepreneurs and small businesses with trusted local organizations. Find support for funding, mentorship, legal advice, and more to help you start, grow, and scale.

More details will be shared when announced.

Connect with CEI

Whether you are community member, student, or industry expert, connect with us.

We can provide support for your ideas and welcome experts that can share their insight with our students and collaborators.
Supporting and encouraging entrepreneurship is important to the economic health and vitality of our community. It creates more opportunities, more jobs, and a healthy environment for business.

JoAnne Taylor

Mayor of Dahlonega