Experience the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute

At the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute, students participate in an advanced study of entrepreneurship that includes seminars with successful entrepreneurs, business, and community leaders; networking and mentoring to enhance their understanding of entrepreneurship opportunities in Iowa; and they have a little bit of fun, too.

2025 Institute | August 10 – 15, 2025

The institute is a collaboration between the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation and the following institutions: University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa, Iowa Lakes Community College, Buena Vista University, and Dordt University.

Up to 32 students total from the five partner institutions are invited to attend the Institute. Preference is given to students from northwest Iowa, southeast Minnesota, northeast Nebraska, and southeast South Dakota. Priority to students working on actual business ventures regardless of geographic home.

Residents of the Iowa Great Lakes area open their homes to host the 32 students during the week-long event, providing participants with a full quality-of-life experience in the region.

At the Institute you will:

• Attend educational topics on entrepreneurship.
• Network with northwest Iowa’s finest entrepreneurs and mentors.
• Explore economic development opportunities in the region.
• Experience the culture of the Lakes region and Okoboji hospitality first-hand.
• Pitch your business or business idea to business coaches.
• Earn one college credit for your participation (optional entrepreneurship credit).
• Spend a weekend immersed in entrepreneurial learning, discussions, and experiences.
• Develop a set of contacts that would make any entrepreneur envious.

Eligibility:

• Full-time registered Iowa State University undergraduate student.
• Commitment to attend the entire Institute (Sunday through Friday).
• Demonstrated interest or experience in entrepreneurship (have own business).
• Complete online application.
• Participate in a selection interview.

Participation in OEI is a competitive process. A limited number of students are selected each summer on an invitation/interview basis. Iowa State University may select no more than seven students for this experience.