Starting a business is an exhilarating journey, but it’s also one filled with challenges, setbacks, and uncertainties. One of the key factors that separates those who succeed from those who give up is passion. While strategy, funding, and market research are critical, passion is the fuel that keeps entrepreneurs moving forward when things get tough. […]
Accelerate UConn Propelus | February 2025
The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CCEI) is pleased to recognize the February cohort of the Accelerate UConn Propelus program for successfully completing the four-week initiative. As part of UConn’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps site, this program is designed to equip early-stage ventures with the skills and resources needed to assess the […]
EBV Alumni Spotlight | Shon Barnwell, EBV ’16
CCEI’s EBV program continues our quarterly Alumni Spotlight series with Shon Barnwell. Shon is currently the proud owner and operator of three entrepreneurial efforts: Shon Barnwell Events produces memorable celebrations and travel adventures; Barnwell Publishing designs and delivers impactful workforce training; and Team Barnwell Properties acquires, rents, and manages residential real estate. Mehgan Williams, EBV’s […]
Alignment: The Word of the Year for 2025
I’m embracing the word alignment as not only my guiding theme for 2025, but the word of the year for CCEI. For me, alignment is about ensuring that all aspects of life and work move cohesively toward a shared vision. It’s about harmonizing values, actions, and ultimately the outcomes that I achieve. What is Alignment? […]
How YOU Can Help CCEI Startup Alumni
Since our Wolff New Venture Competition ended in October, the 25+ startups featured in our Startup Showcase component of the evening are actively moving forward — but many still need support to reach their next milestones. Each company presented bold solutions across diverse industries, from sustainable agriculture and health tech to digital accessibility and consumer […]
Accelerate UConn Propelus | November 2024
The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CCEI) is pleased to announce the startups selected to participate in our Accelerate UConn Propelus program, UConn’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps site. Each four-week Propelus program provides hands-on training in the fundamental components of new venture creation and is delivered by experienced entrepreneurs and NSF-trained instructors. […]
Accelerate UConn Propelus | October 2024
The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CCEI) is excited to announce the startups selected for the October cohort of Accelerate UConn Propelus, UConn’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps (I-Corps) site. The four-week Propelus program offers immersive, hands-on training in the key elements of new venture creation, led by seasoned entrepreneurs and NSF-certified instructors. […]
Accelerate UConn Propelus | September 2024
The Connecticut Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CCEI) is pleased to announce the startups selected to participate in our Accelerate UConn Propelus program, UConn’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps site. Each four-week Propelus program provides hands-on training in the fundamental components of new venture creation and is delivered by experienced entrepreneurs and NSF-trained instructors. […]
Everything You Need To Know About ‘The 50% Rule’ Book Club Event
The 50% Rule is a simple compromise: Do things half-normal, half-you (and work half as hard) for results that are grounded in your authentic strengths. In The 50% Rule, award-winning author and former CEO Erin Hatzikostas unveils the creative shortcut that has helped her (and so many others!) go from underdog status to unmatched success in career […]
Driving Innovation Through Storytelling: CCEI’s Book Club Picks
In 2023, CCEI launched its inaugural Book Club, featuring Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. Our Book Club aims to share books authored by entrepreneurs who offer unique perspectives on business, life, and everything in between. Our goal is to engage our community in meaningful conversations and events, fostering connections and learning together. This summer, we […]