Entrepreneurs Thrive Here

Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025
November 17 - 21

Together We Build

Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) spans across 180 countries during the week of November 17 - 21, 2025. With a goal to deepen collaboration, the Southern Indiana area will host the second year of events and programs to connect entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers and resources together.

Submit Your Application for The Next BIG Thing Pitch

Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, November 5, 5:00 p.m. (EST). No late applications will be accepted. 

Application must include:  

  • Completed application form  

  • Three-minute elevator pitch

  • Executive Summary (1,000 words maximum - template hyperlinked above)

Finalists will be selected and all applicants will be sent a notification email by Wednesday, November 12, 2024, 5:00 p.m. (EST).

By submitting your pitch video and executive summary, you agree to the Competition Terms and Conditions. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please email GEW@Maker13.com.

Submit Your Pitch

Wednesday, October 29th at 7pm

The Next BIG Thing Pitch Prep Virtual Workshop

Join us for an insightful workshop where you'll learn how to perfect your pitch. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this workshop will help you craft a compelling pitch that will impress any audience.

During this workshop, you'll get hands-on experience creating and delivering your pitch, receive feedback from experts, and network with other like-minded individuals. Don't miss this opportunity to fine-tune your pitch and take your presentation to the next level!

You will receive the Zoom link to the workshop upon completing your registration.

Reserve a Spot

GEW 2025 Agenda

Tuesday, November 18 at 5:30pm

IU Southeast School of Business Creative Economy Event

Unleash Your Inner Entrepreneur!

Join us for a unique event celebrating the vibrant spirit of creative entrepreneurship. Enjoy a showcase, panel, networking, and food with our creative community.

This event will be held in the IU Southeast Hoosier Room (inside of University Center North) and is FREE to attend. The event will run 5:30pm-7:30pm.

For questions or additional info, please contact Dr. Aycan Kara at karaa@iu.edu

Led by: Dr. Ayca Kara, Mike Fulkerson, Brigid Morrisey, Nicole Driscoll

Attend as a Guest

Wednesday, November 19 at 6pm

The Next BIG Thing Pitch Competition

Join us for an exciting evening of innovation, inspiration, and networking as the brightest minds in entrepreneurship come together to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and compete for $10,000 (and growing) in seed capital.

This event will be held in the IU Southeast Hoosier Room (inside of University Center North) and is FREE to attend. A food buffet and non-alcoholic beverages are included with your admission. The event will take place from 6:00pm-8:30pm.

Led by: Dr. Aycan Kara, Mike Fulkerson, Kyleigh Hublar, Nicole Driscoll, Aaron Williams

Join the Audience

Thursday, November 20

Student Entrepreneur Resource Fair

Are you a local student interested in entrepreneurship? Are you dreaming of starting your own business one day? This event aims to connect high school students with local entrepreneurs and learn about the valuable resources, support, and opportunities to foster growth and innovation that exist within our community. For questions or additional info, please contact Kyleigh Hublar at Kyleigh.Hublar@maker13.com.

Registration for this event is OPEN for both booths and teachers. If you are able to attend this year, please reach out to Kyleigh Hublar to reserve your spot or learn more about booth sponsorships.

Led by: John Riley, Mike Fulkerson, Kyleigh Hublar

Friday, November 21

Founder Beers

Details to come!

Organizing Partners

Gold Sponsors

Duke Energy

Silver Sponsors

Venue Sponsors

Student Entrepreneurship Resource Fair Booth Sponsors