{"id":1245,"date":"2026-01-29T19:47:13","date_gmt":"2026-01-29T19:47:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/?page_id=1245"},"modified":"2026-07-09T17:20:42","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T17:20:42","slug":"entrepreneurship-innovation-academy-eia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/entrepreneurship-innovation-academy-eia\/","title":{"rendered":"Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Academy (EIA)"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-large-font-size\">Empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The&nbsp;Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Academy (EIA) provides&nbsp;ACC students with the tools, mentorship, and real-world experience to&nbsp;transform&nbsp;ideas&nbsp;into ventures. Whether&nbsp;you&#8217;re launching&nbsp;a startup, developing&nbsp;a social&nbsp;enterprise, or exploring innovation, EIA is&nbsp;your&nbsp;launchpad.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"embed-responsive  embed-responsive-16by9\">\n<div class=\"iframe-container\">\n<div class=\"iframe-container\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"embed-responsive-item\"   class=\"embed-responsive-item\"   title=\"The Future Is Being Built Right Now: Welcome to the Innovation Academy at Austin Community College\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/1189824614?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div style=\"height:22px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What Students Are Building at EIA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This spring, ACC students and community members submitted ventures to NEST FEST Spring 2026. The featured ventures below show the range of what entrepreneurship looks like at EIA, from already-operating platforms to MVPs heading to market.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EIA welcomes ventures at every stage, from a first idea to a revenue-generating business, and across every area of study at ACC.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:22px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1566\" style=\"width:793px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035-320x240.jpg 320w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/05\/IMG_1035.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>NEST FEST Spring 2026 presenters at Highland Campus. April 23, 2026.<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\n<p><!--\n  ============================================================\n  EIA \u00b7 UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR\n  ============================================================\n  Cards link to https:\/\/nest-fest.online\n  Date tile: month + day only\n  Cards: title + description + free badge (no eyebrow, no location)\n  ============================================================\n--><\/p>\n<div style=\"margin:30px 0;font-family:Arial,sans-serif\">\n<h2 style=\"font-family:Georgia,serif;font-weight:700;font-size:26px;color:#2E1A47;margin:0 0 6px 0;letter-spacing:-0.3px\">Upcoming Events<\/h2>\n<div style=\"height:2px;background:#FFC554;width:60px;margin-bottom:22px\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size:0;margin:0 -8px\">\n<p>    <!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550 EVENT 1: NEST FEST Fall 2026 \u2550\u2550\u2550 --><\/p>\n<div style=\"width:100%;max-width:580px;vertical-align:top;padding:0 8px;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:16px\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/nest-fest.online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"text-decoration:none;color:inherit\"><\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#FFFFFF;border:1px solid #E5DED2;border-left:4px solid #4D1979;border-radius:8px;overflow:hidden\">\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"0\" style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse\">\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:96px;background:#2E1A47;color:#FFFFFF;text-align:center;padding:22px 12px;vertical-align:middle\">\n<div style=\"font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:2px;color:#FFC554;text-transform:uppercase\">Nov<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:48px;font-weight:700;line-height:1;color:#FFFFFF;margin-top:6px\">06<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:20px 22px;vertical-align:middle\">\n<div style=\"font-family:Georgia,serif;font-weight:700;font-size:22px;color:#2E1A47;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:10px\">NEST FEST Fall 2026<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:15.5px;color:#4A3F58;line-height:1.55;margin-bottom:14px\">ACC&#8217;s student startup showcase returns. Pitch your idea, connect with mentors, and compete for prizes alongside Austin&#8217;s most promising student entrepreneurs.<\/div>\n<p>                <span style=\"background:#FFE9A8;color:#2E1A47;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;font-weight:700;padding:4px 10px;border-radius:12px;letter-spacing:0.3px\">Free \u00b7 All majors welcome<\/span>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<p>      <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<p>    <!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550 EVENT 2: NEST FEST Info Session \u2550\u2550\u2550 --><\/p>\n<div style=\"width:100%;max-width:580px;vertical-align:top;padding:0 8px;font-size:14px;margin-bottom:16px\">\n      <a href=\"https:\/\/nest-fest.online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" style=\"text-decoration:none;color:inherit\"><\/p>\n<div style=\"background:#FFFFFF;border:1px solid #E5DED2;border-left:4px solid #FFC554;border-radius:8px;overflow:hidden\">\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" cellspacing=\"0\" border=\"0\" style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:collapse\">\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width:96px;background:#4D1979;color:#FFFFFF;text-align:center;padding:22px 12px;vertical-align:middle\">\n<div style=\"font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:12px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:2px;color:#FFC554;text-transform:uppercase\">Oct<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family:Georgia,serif;font-size:48px;font-weight:700;line-height:1;color:#FFFFFF;margin-top:6px\">21<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:20px 22px;vertical-align:middle\">\n<div style=\"font-family:Georgia,serif;font-weight:700;font-size:22px;color:#2E1A47;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:10px\">NEST FEST Info Session<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:15.5px;color:#4A3F58;line-height:1.55;margin-bottom:14px\">Drop in to learn what NEST FEST looks like, how to apply, and how to connect with mentors. Get help on your application on the spot.<\/div>\n<p>                <span style=\"background:#FFE9A8;color:#2E1A47;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;font-weight:700;padding:4px 10px;border-radius:12px;letter-spacing:0.3px\">Free \u00b7 Open to all ACC students<\/span>\n              <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<p>      <\/a>\n    <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:35px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What We Do<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Entrepreneurship Education<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Academic programs and curriculum that prepare students to plan, launch, and grow ventures across all disciplines.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Workforce Development<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Connecting students with experienced entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry professionals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Startup Events &amp; Activities<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pitch competitions, innovation labs, and hands-on experiences that bring student ideas to life.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Startup  Connect<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Supporting student-led initiatives, pitch competitions, and startup development from idea to launch.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0872-1-e1770994399141.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1332\" \/><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>NEST FEST Fall 2025 presenters at Rio Grande Campus. November 2025.<\/em><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">ACC Innovation Ecosystem<\/h2>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left wp-block-paragraph\">EIA connects entrepreneurship education across ACC&#8217;s centers of innovation, creating pathways for students in every discipline.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Bioscience &amp; Life Sciences<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wet lab facilities supporting early-stage biotech companies and cross-disciplinary talent development.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Civic Engagement &amp; Public Service<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skill building and experiential learning for impactful public service and civic leadership.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-medium-font-size\">Design &amp; Manufacturing<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Incubator spaces for fashion entrepreneurs and physical product development, connecting students and industry partners to bring ideas to market.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\">Agriculture &amp; Food Innovation<\/h4>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sustainable farming, farm-to-table entrepreneurship, and food business development rooted in ecological practices and hands-on student farm experience.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Students<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to launch your idea? EIA provides the resources, mentorship, and real-world experience to help you build your venture \u2014 no matter your major or background.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:46px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1317 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/bigbitesresized-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Deanna Deleon, culinary student and founder of Big Bites Bakery, took first place at NEST FEST 2025. She pitched her business to a panel of judges, closed with &#8220;Who wants to take a bite with me?&#8221; <\/em><br \/><em>and delivered! Your idea could be next.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:43px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The EDGE Team (Entrepreneurship Development &amp; Growth Events) is EIA&#8217;s student-led organization. EDGE members organize pitch competitions, lead workshops, and build Austin&#8217;s student entrepreneurship community. Their flagship event, NEST FEST, is ACC&#8217;s annual startup showcase.<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:43px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"827\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104-827x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1357\" style=\"width:586px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104-827x1024.jpg 827w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104-242x300.jpg 242w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104-768x950.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104-1241x1536.jpg 1241w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104-121x150.jpg 121w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/1759763687104.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 827px) 100vw, 827px\" \/><\/figure>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">EDGE Team &#8211; first EIA cohort. <\/p>\n<div style=\"height:43px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/austincc.campuslabs.com\/engage\/organization\/edgeteam\">I&#8217;m a student<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/nest-fest.online\/\">Learn About NEST FEST<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get Involved<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re a mentor, judge, speaker, or community supporter, there&#8217;s a place for you in the EIA community. Show up for student founders and help shape the next generation of Austin entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1318 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/judges--150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>NEST FEST supporters bring real-world expertise from across Austin&#8217;s innovation community. Our 2025 panel included leaders from startups, computer science education, venture mentorship, and ACC executive leadership &#8211; giving student presenters direct feedback from professionals who build and invest in real businesses.<\/em><\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"http:\/\/Get Involvedmailto:entrepreneurshipacademy@austincc.edu\">Get Involved<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Sponsors &amp; Partners<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Partner with EIA to invest in Austin&#8217;s emerging entrepreneurs. Sponsorship opportunities support student programs, pitch competitions and innovation initiatives across ACC.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/secure.touchnet.com\/C20395_ustores\/web\/store_main.jsp?STOREID=167&amp;clearPreview=true\">Become a Partner<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:22px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/1MillionCupsAUS\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"224\" height=\"224\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/image-2.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1644\" style=\"width:311px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/image-2.png 224w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/image-2-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 224px) 100vw, 224px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Join ACC&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.1millioncups.com\/s\/\">1 Millions Cups<\/a> Weekly Meetings &#8211; Every Wednesday @9am-10:30am at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.austincc.edu\/campuses\/highland-campus\/\">Austin Community College &#8211; Highland Campus<\/a> at 6101 Highland Campus Dr. Austin, TX 78752 &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/students.austincc.edu\/welcome-center\/\">Welcome Center<\/a> &#8211; 2nd floor of Building 1000 at the east entrance. Meet with and learn from other entrepreneurs from the Central Texas community. Coffee and snacks will be served at the event. Hope to see you there! <strong> KICKOFF is AUGUST 5, 2026!<\/strong>  Hope to see you there. <\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-vivid-purple-color has-text-color has-link-color has-x-large-font-size wp-elements-19be0f78ad1d5d27b416eaf258bcce3b\"><strong>Office Hours Coming Soon!<\/strong>  <\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You are invited to meet with a professional coach to assist with Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation project ideation and advice. Look for a sign-up sheet for in-person and hybrid coaching sessions.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\">Sign-Up for Office Hours Session &#8211; Coming Soon!<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where It Started<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><em>In Spring 2025, five students were recruited to build ACC&#8217;s first entrepreneurship program from the ground up. Over the next six months, this founding cohort planned, organized, and launched NEST FEST &#8211; ACC&#8217;s inaugural student pitch competition. With 15 student presenters and 150+ attendees, what started at a whiteboard became one of ACC&#8217;s most impactful student-led initiatives. Their work laid the foundation for the Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Academy.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1313 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/foundingteam-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our Team<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Executive Champion<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1125\" height=\"1112\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/2026_MReeves_Headshot.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1633\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.0117053709209982;width:382px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/2026_MReeves_Headshot.jpg 1125w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/2026_MReeves_Headshot-300x297.jpg 300w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/2026_MReeves_Headshot-1024x1012.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/2026_MReeves_Headshot-768x759.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/06\/2026_MReeves_Headshot-150x148.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1125px) 100vw, 1125px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Dr. Monique Reeves<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Futurist &amp; Executive Vice Chancellor<\/p>\n<div style=\"height:22px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Leadership Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/infohub.austincc.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Dr.-Andrea-L.-Kehoe_Info-Hub-923-x-523.png\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" \/><\/figure>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Dr. Andrea Kehoe<\/h4>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Head of Product<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"450\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/04\/harshal-shah.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1519\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/04\/harshal-shah.jpg 450w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/04\/harshal-shah-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/04\/harshal-shah-113x150.jpg 113w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/figure>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Harshal Shah<\/h4>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Program Director &#8211; Center for EIA<br \/>CEO &#8211; The Venture Build<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"921\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-921x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1440\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-921x1024.jpg 921w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-270x300.jpg 270w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-768x853.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-1382x1536.jpg 1382w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-1843x2048.jpg 1843w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/unnamed-135x150.jpg 135w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 921px) 100vw, 921px\" \/><\/figure>\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Abel Rincon<\/h4>\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Student Entrepreneur<br \/>Team EDGE President <br \/>AI\/Automation Specialist<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Past Events<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Business in a Box: Student Entrepreneurship Lab at SXSW EDU<\/strong> March 11, 2026 \u00b7 Center for Government &amp; Civic Service, Rio Grande Campus<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EDGE Team brought ACC student founders to the Central Texas Learning Festival at SXSW EDU. Students learned to build custom AI assistants using Google Workspace Gems, tools that act as marketers, financial analysts, and operations managers for early-stage businesses. Live demos, hands-on builds, and real founder community. Free and open to all ACC students.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"881\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517-881x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1369 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517-881x1024.jpg 881w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517-258x300.jpg 258w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517-768x893.jpg 768w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517-1321x1536.jpg 1321w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517-129x150.jpg 129w, https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/22\/2026\/02\/DSC_0611-scaled-e1771008285517.jpg 1468w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 881px) 100vw, 881px\" \/><\/figure>\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-paragraph\">In November 2025, ACC hosted its inaugural Nest Fest, a student-led pitch competition that brought together 15 student presenters, industry judges, and over 150 attendees at the Riverside Campus. Students pitched real business ideas ranging from AI platforms to bakeries, receiving live feedback from experienced entrepreneurs and faculty. ACC Vice Chancellor Dr. Reeves delivered a keynote reminding the room that the students who succeed aren&#8217;t rare because they&#8217;re successful, they&#8217;re rare because they started. From a Navy veteran building 3D-printed prototypes to a first-gen student reimagining the motorsports fan experience, Nest Fest proved that when students are given a stage, mentorship, and community backing, extraordinary ideas come to life. Watch the full event to hear every pitch and the energy that launched the Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Academy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"height:49px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/austincc.hosted.panopto.com\/Panopto\/Pages\/Viewer.aspx?id=64c6fc0a-82c0-48d0-85d6-b38e014bcb0f\">WATCH NEST FEST 2025<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Connect With Us<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Have questions about EIA or want to get involved?<\/p>\n<p>entrepreneurshipacademy@austincc.edu<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/ASBchLRgqJ9e1GSb9\">Have a Question?<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Stay Connected<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get updates on EIA programs, upcoming events, and student opportunities.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-fe48e5de wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\">SUBSCRIBE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. The&nbsp;Entrepreneurship &amp; Innovation Academy (EIA) provides&nbsp;ACC students with the tools, mentorship, and real-world experience to&nbsp;transform&nbsp;ideas&nbsp;into ventures. Whether&nbsp;you&#8217;re launching&nbsp;a startup, developing&nbsp;a social&nbsp;enterprise, or exploring innovation, EIA is&nbsp;your&nbsp;launchpad. What Students Are &hellip; <a href=\"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/entrepreneurship-innovation-academy-eia\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"meta-nav\">&rarr;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":37,"featured_media":1650,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1245","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1245","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/37"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1245"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1245\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1652,"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1245\/revisions\/1652"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1650"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.austincc.edu\/futurist\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1245"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}