Who May Apply

All incoming high school Juniors and Seniors in the State of Indiana who meet the basic eligibility criteria may apply.

Costs, Commitment and Completion

Selected nominees who meet the required criteria will be invited to attend the five-day Entrepreneurship Academy at the Purdue University’s West Lafayette Campus hosted by the Purdue Research Park.  This academy will offer a weeklong series of seminars and workshops designed to introduce high school students to the world of high-tech entrepreneurship. 

The Purdue Research Park will provide tuition, room, board, food, instructional material and program seminars and workshops for all selected participants.  Families are responsible for transportation to and from the program, pocket money, a residential life deposit that is refunded if all conditions are met, and for damages not covered by the deposit. Students must remain in residence for the full five-day program.  They are expected to arrive promptly and participate fully in all seminars, workshops and activities.

Students who complete the Entrepreneurship Academy and choose to enroll as an undergraduate student at Purdue may use the academy experience to fulfill one of the approved option course requirements for Purdue’s Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program.  The certificate, which is similar to a minor, is designed to provide entrepreneurship education to students in all majors.  Students receive the certificate by completing a series of five courses and/or approved experiential learning opportunities, including as internships.  Read more about it at www.purdue.edu/Certificate

Selection Process

Nominations are reviewed by a committee comprised of the Purdue Research Park, faculty and business and industry experts.

Criteria

Basic Criteria:  Demonstrates dedication and innovation in the areas of Math, Science and Technology Education.  Reveals strong leadership skills and an above average level of energy for becoming involved in advanced learning activities.

Competitive Criteria: Use these bullet points to help select deserving students and arrive at your nomination(s).  The committee appreciates any comments you could make on the student or students you are nominating:
 

• Demonstrates creativity and initiative
• Is recognized by peers as a leader
• Demonstrates ability to work with others and respects diversity
• Overall academic strength; student takes challenging courses and performs well
• Genuine interest in and connection with concepts and concerns relevant to high-tech entrepreneurship

Testimonial: A written statement certifying to the nominees character, conduct and qualifications.  Nominees should show evidence of independence, creativity, initiative, analytical thinking, strong communication skills and the ability to work well with others.

Breakdown of regions funded by Indiana Wired: