By

Somil Patel

PSU Startup Week Social Innovation Challenge

Background Two weeks ago, I had the opportunity to compete in the first ever Penn State Startup Week Social Innovation Challenge. This competition pitted just over a dozen teams against each other in a chance to create a startup that somehow betters society. It was split into two rounds of judging, with seven teams advancing past...
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Entrepreneurship in the College of Agricultural Sciences

Introduction As entrepreneurship continues to occupy more of the spotlight around the Penn State community, the College of Agricultural Sciences is taking several major steps to stay ahead of the curve. I had the opportunity to meet with Scott Welsh, the entrepreneur-in-residence in the College of Agricultural Sciences Fieldstone Innovations. Scott and his team are...
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The $5 million on-campus Venture Capital experience – The Garber Fund

Overview The Garber Venture Capital Fund at Penn State University has developed into an excellent educational program for aspiring Penn State students with an interest in venture capital, investing, and banking. It was established in 1999, thanks to a $5 million commitment from Penn State Alumnus Dr. John Garber, and his wife Bette. Peter Whalen...
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Penn State’s unique Wall Street experience – The Nittany Lion Fund

Brief Overview The Nittany Lion Fund is a student-run organization sponsored by the Smeal College of Business. It is a $7 million hedge fund with two goals: To outperform the market, providing a strong return for its investors To educate its students, in order to help them obtain careers on Wall Street Origins The Nittany...
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