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Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
LYFT Career Pathways

Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs: 5th Annual Student Entrepreneurship Conference

The 5th Annual Student Entrepreneurship Conference, hosted at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), provided a day packed with big ideas, real-world insight, and powerful connections for aspiring young entrepreneur leaders. This event, supported by LYFT Career Pathways and key regional partners, brought together students from across the region to learn what it truly takes to turn passion into a profession.

A Day of Learning, Networking, and Real-World Insight

The conference featured an engaging agenda designed to equip young entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence to take their next steps in the business world.

  • Panel Discussions: Students heard directly from local business leaders who shared their expertise and the realities of starting and managing a venture.
  • Networking with Professionals: The event provided a unique platform for students to connect with local entrepreneurs, fostering relationships that bridge the gap between the classroom and the community.
  • Empowering the Next Step: From exploring new concepts to discussing business growth, the sessions were tailored to help students transform their innovative ideas into viable professional paths.

A Collaborative Effort to Support Future Business Leaders

This conference continues to be a cornerstone for regional youth development, made possible through the collaboration of several organizations dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship in Southwest and West Central Minnesota.

Participating CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) Programs:

  • Lyon and Murray County CEO
  • Cottonwood Jackson CEO
  • Southwest MN CEO
  • Minnesota River Valley CEO
  • West Central MN CEO
  • 59 Corridor CEO

Event Partners:

Thank You to Our Volunteers

We extend a huge thank you to the business leaders who volunteered their time and expertise to mentor our students:

By investing in students today and connecting them with real entrepreneurs in our communities, we’re building the innovative leaders of tomorrow.

  • Student Entrepreneurship Conference
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