
22 Jan Nominate an IU-affiliated Entrepreneur or Innovator for the Spirit of Venture Award
Do you know someone in the Indiana University ecosystem who epitomizes the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation? If so, IU Ventures is looking for nominations for its next Spirit of Venture Award.
The Spirit of Venture Award(s) are presented to Indiana University faculty, staff, alumni, or student founders and funders who have (1) exhibited success in entrepreneurship and innovation; (2) provided mentorship and support to IU Ventures and IU-affiliated founders and funders; and/or (3) demonstrated noteworthy philanthropy and service to Indiana University.
The award(s) are presented annually at IU Venture’s Founders & Funders Network Venture Summit. The next Summit will take place May 15-16, 2025 in Bloomington.
Eligible candidates must be Indiana University faculty, staff, alumni or students who hold a degree from any IU program. Up to three eligible candidates can be nominated together as one “team” candidate. Student nominees must be in good standing with the University as determined by the Office of Registrar, the Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students, and/or the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School.
Applicants can be nominated by an Indiana University faculty, staff, student or alumnus or self nominate, though eligible candidates are encouraged to seek eligible nominators to submit nomination. Nominators complete the Spirit of Venture Award application on behalf of the nominee. Nominees will be contacted by email to provide authorization to verify status of good standing (if applicable) and supporting materials (cover letter and resume/CV).
The Spirit of Venture Selection Committee will evaluate applicants based on the following criteria: (1) exhibited entrepreneurs success as a founder of a commercial or social enterprise as demonstrated by traditional business success and growth metrics; and (2) exhibited commitment and service to IU Ventures through their support of IU-affliicated founders and funders including (but not limited to) mentorship, education, networking, career placement, etc.
If you are interested in nominating someone for the Spirit of Venture Awards, please fill out the nomination form on the IU Ventures website. Nominations will be accepted until April 1, 2025.