An innovation festival.
Here in South Bend-Elkhart.
For Community. By Community.

Idea Week is put on by some of our area's most engaged organizations to bring you an exciting production of events in 2024.

This April, a whole new kind of innovation festival hits the South Bend-Elkhart region that lets you Learn, Play, Meet, And Compete. Geared towards Everyone - whether you're already a successful entrepreneur, a new student, or simply live for local events - discover Your way of experiencing innovation Here.

Idea Week is an innovation festival hosting business, technology, and entertainment events to provide entrepreneurs, students, and attendees with the practical knowledge, creative inspiration, and social foundation they need to innovate within their own careers, studies, and communities.

Schedule Of Events

April 20, 2024

6:30 pm: The All-American Rejects Live

Since the start of their career, alt-rock/power pop titans The All-American Rejects have sold over 10 million albums worldwide and helped define a post-emo sound that was the soundtrack of a decade. With smash hits "Gives You Hell", "Dirty Little Secret", "Move Along", "Swing, Swing" and "It Ends Tonight", their songs have become an indelible slice of the era. Frontman Tyson Ritter has also added acting to his creative arsenal most recently with credits including Love And Mercy, HBO's Lewis & Clark, NBC's Parenthood and Betas.

Location: Four Winds Field, 501 W South St, South Bend, Indiana 46601

April 23, 2024

4:30 pm - 7:00 pm: Unleash Your Creativity: IDEA Week Launch Party!

Get ready to kick off IDEA Week in style with an electrifying Launch Party that will set the tone for an unforgettable week of innovation, inspiration, and endless possibilities!

Join us at Momentum Entrepreneurship Hub as we ignite the spark of creativity and celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship that defines IDEA Week! From visionary startups to industry leaders, this is your chance to connect with fellow innovators, dreamers, and doers who are shaping the future.

Immerse yourself in a night of excitement as we unveil what's in store for the week ahead. With music, interactive exhibits, and captivating performances, the Launch Party promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and energized.

But that's not all - the Launch Party is also your opportunity to meet the minds behind IDEA Week, including our esteemed partners, sponsors, and organizers. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a curious student, or simply someone with a passion for innovation, this is your chance to be a part of something truly extraordinary.

So mark your calendars, rally your friends, and get ready to ignite your imagination at the IDEA Week Launch Party. Let's come together to celebrate innovation, ignite creativity, and unleash the potential of our community.

Don't miss out - RSVP now and be a part of the excitement!

Location: Momentum Entrepreneurship Hub, 518 S. Main Street, South Bend, Indiana  46601

April 24, 2024

9:00 am - 10:00 am: Thirst for Innovation: Dive Into the Hydro Flask Revolution with Founder Travis Rosbach

Travis Rosebach, founder of Hydro Flask, joins IDEA Week as a keynote speaker to talk product invention, scaling through innovation, and more.

11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Preparing for Jobs that Don't Exist Yet

Join us for an enlightening session with Michelle Weise, acclaimed expert and author of "Long-Life Learning: Preparing for Jobs That Don't Even Exist Yet" and Senior Advisor at Imaginable Futures. As a thought leader in the realm of "Skills Compasses," Michelle explores the intersection of innovation, training, and upskilling to meet the evolving demands of the labor market.

In this session, Michelle will challenge us to reevaluate our learning ecosystems in the face of longer lifespans, automation, and rapid transformation in the 21st century. Drawing from her extensive experience as the former Chief Innovation Officer of Strada Education Network's Institute for the Future of Work, Michelle will share insights on the significance of education systems evolving to of education systems adapting to meet the needs of an emerging workforce generation.  

Join us as Michelle Weise guides us through strategies for future-proofing our skills and embracing a mindset of continuous learning. Whether you're an educator, business leader, or simply curious about the future of work, this session promises to inspire and equip you with the knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-changing professional landscape.

11:00 am - 1:00 pm: Elevate Ventures Hardtech Roadshow

Step into the heart of innovation at the South Bend | Elkhart Startup Showcase! Discover groundbreaking ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and creative solutions that are shaping the future of Indiana and beyond. Exhibiting companies represent key talent from Elevate Ventures' portfolio in the South Bend | Elkhart region and Elevate staff and stakeholders will be in attendance to connect and engage.

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Supporting Entrepreneurs With AI

AI is changing the way entrepreneurs operate. Naturally, it should then also change the way we coach people how to be entrepreneurs. In this session, Logan Herzog, Chief Innovation Officer at RISE, will demonstrate how AI can make an immediate impact in the way organizations support and upskill entrepreneurs.

You'll see real-life examples of AI chat bots built to support students in the classroom, hear strategies RISE has developed for embracing AI, and hear what's coming in the months ahead.

If you're responsible for teaching entrepreneurs, and interested in how AI can help, this session is designed specifically for you.

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm: DECA: A Framework for 10x Impact Investing

Venture capitalist Zoey McKenzie recently launched a $100 million impact fund called Public Ventures that seeks out science and clean tech startups focused on improving health equity and climate preparedness for underserved communities. In this session, Zoey will discuss impact investing and how it aims to generate positive social and environmental outcomes, along with financial returns. In this talk, you will also learn about the DECA Framework, a method that offers innovators, investors, and philanthropists a precise roadmap towards universal progress. You will discover the four essential pillars of the framework: Deal, Ecosystem, Community, and Application, and how they can help you achieve 10x (sustainable) impact while addressing complex global challenges, like climate change.

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Strategies for Fundraising and Startup Growth in Challenging Financial Landscapes

Join us for an exciting session during IDEA Week featuring Maya French, the visionary founder of Koia, a renowned name in the plant-based nutrition industry. As the mastermind behind Koia, Maya has revolutionized the way we look at and consume plant-based beverages.

Maya's journey is a remarkable story of innovation, dedication, and passion. With a mission to make healthy, delicious, and sustainable nutrition accessible to everyone, she has taken Koia from a small start-up to a globally recognized brand. Her commitment to creating products that are not only good for your body but also the planet has set Koia apart in the competitive health and wellness market.

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Brand Amplifier, The Power of Personal Branding

Unlock the Power of Authentic Branding: Join a Personal Branding workshop featuring the insights of Creative Duality's CEO + Executive Director of The ayana Foundation, Jaclynn Brennan. Dive deep into the art of crafting a brand identity that mirrors your genuine values and unique expression. As female founders, harness strategies to amplify your voice, establish your digital footprint, and lead authentically. This is your chance to transform your vision into a resonating personal brand; sign up and let your true self shine!

Location: Century Center, 120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, Indiana 46601

April 25, 2024

9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Starting Small Summit

Starting Small Summit is an entrepreneurship event, hosted by Cameron Nagle of Starting Small Media. Come hear from some of the globe's leading brands on how they were started from the ground up. Hosting a variety of industry leaders, Starting Small Summit welcomes you to learn, engage, and network with likeminded individuals.

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm: Recent Raises: Hear From Founders Who Just Completed Their Rounds

Join us at IDEA Week for an insightful event on "Recent Raises," where you'll have the exclusive opportunity to hear directly from accomplished founders who have successfully completed their funding rounds. Gain valuable insights into their fundraising strategies, challenges faced, and the key factors that contributed to their success. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious about the dynamics of startup funding, this event promises to provide a deep dive into the world of recent fundraising endeavors.

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Building the Future of Sports, Music, and Entertainment

From the impact of virtual experiences to the role of data analytics in sports and entertainment, this event aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these sectors are navigating the digital age and paving the way for an exciting and transformative future. Whether you're a professional in the field or simply passionate about the convergence of sports, music, and entertainment, this session promises to be a captivating journey into the forefront of industry evolution.

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Betting on Indiana: Investors Who Think Indiana Companies Have What it Takes

Join us for an evening of exploration into the thriving entrepreneurial landscape of Indiana, where investors will share their insights on why they believe in the potential of local businesses. Discover the stories behind successful investments, gain valuable perspectives on the state's economic future, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for supporting and betting on Indiana's business growth. This event is a unique opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping the future of Indiana's business ecosystem. Don't miss out on this dynamic gathering that celebrates the spirit of innovation and investment in the Hoosier state.

4:00 pm - 8:00 pm: RISE Fest

RISE Fest 2024 is set to take place at the historic Studebaker Building in South Bend on April 25, 2024 from 4pm-8pm. RISE Fest is the signature year-end event where RISE students can showcase their new startup ideas and products. This event promises to be a celebration of creativity, innovation, and hands-on learning, creating an atmosphere akin to a vibrant street fair. We'll have a lively evening filled with food, live music, interactive activities, demonstrations and fireside chats.

Throughout the Studebaker Building, there will be many innovative opportunities for attendees to explore and it is free to attend! Community members will be able to experience virtual reality simulations, robots, 3D printing, AI, welding and more! This event is not just about showcasing products and innovations; it's an opportunity for RISE students, alumni and the community to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship. Shop small and shop local at RISE Fest!

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm: EntreLeadership - Founder-Focused Entrepreneurial Leadership

The EntreLeadership workshop equips founders with the skills they need to thrive - and flourish - as leaders who can confront challenges with determination, navigate through uncertainties with assurance, manage ambiguity with grace, and strategically approach risks. Invest in your growth as an entrepreneurial leader and redefine your path to success.

Location: Century Center, 120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, Indiana 46601

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Hasan Minhaj Live

Two-time Peabody Award-Winning comedian Hasan Minhaj is set to take center stage on April 25, 2024, bringing his unique brand of humor and insightful commentary to South Bend.

Having served as a senior correspondent at Comedy Central's "The Daily Show with John Stewawrt" and headlined the 2017 White House Correspondents' Dinner, Hasan Minhaj's wit and charm have graced some of the most significant stages in comedy and political satire. Furthermore, he's ventured into the realm of film production as the co-founder and CEO of 186K Films, set to produce its debut feature, "For The Culture," in collaboration with Amazon Studios. Notably, Minhaj is co-writing the script and will star in this exciting project.

Location: Morris Performing Arts Center, 211 N Michigan St, South Bend, South Bend, Indiana  46601

April 26, 2024

10:00 am - 6:00 pm: McCloskey All Three Events: Startup Showcase, Finals and Reception

The McCloskey New Venture Competition final events consist of a Startup Showcase, sponsored by Alternate Tax Solutions, followed by our Final Round competition and a Finals Reception. Register for all three sessions here.

Location: Duncan Student Center, 100 Duncan Student Center, Notre Dame, Indiana  46556

10:01 am - 12:00 pm: McCloskey Startup Showcase

The Annual McCloskey Startup Showcase, sponsored by Alternate Tax Solutions, showcases startups that have been working diligently throughout the year in the McCloskey New Venture Competition.

Learn more about growing startups within the Notre Dame and South Bend community, and even vote for your favorite booth to help teams be eligible for a $1,000 cash prize during the Finals event! Don't miss out on this great opportunity to see the hard work our teams have put into their growing ventures!

Location: Duncan Student Center, 100 Duncan Student Center, Notre Dame, Indiana  46556

1:30 pm - 4:00 pm: McCloskey New Venture Competition Finals

The McCloskey New Venture Competition is an annual prize competition at the University of Notre Dame for early-stage ventures. It is open to the Notre Dame  students, faculty, staff, and alumni as well as members of the surrounding South Bend-Elkhart community. The McCloskey competition began in 2001 with $30,000 in awards and 70 teams. Now in its 24th year, the competition will give out more than $600,000 in prize money this year. The McCloskey New Venture Competition is intended for traditional entrepreneurial ventures that  have not been yet launched or are at the earliest stage of launch.

Location: Duncan Student Center, 100 Duncan Student Center, Notre Dame, Indiana  46556

4:00 pm - 6:00 pm: McCloskey 2024 Finals Reception

Join us after the McCloskey Finals to celebrate a year of growth and great accomplishments!  Hors d'oeuvres and the opportunity to sit down and connect with our amazing startups and judges will be provided during this event. Help us end IDEA Week with a bang!

Location: Legends, 100 Legends, Notre Dame, Indiana  46556

7:00 pm - 10:00 pm: Nashville Night

Join us for a night of toe-tapping country music and southern charm at the Barn at the St Joe Farm in Granger, IN, USA.

Get ready to experience the best of Nashville right in your backyard! Grab your cowboy boots and dance the night away to live performances by talented country artists.

Indulge in refreshing drinks while enjoying the picturesque views of the farm. Whether you're a die-hard country fan or just looking for a fun night out, Nashville Night is the place to be. Don't miss this unforgettable evening filled with great music, good company, and a whole lot of country vibes!

Doors open at 6:30 pm
Show at 7pm
Full Bar

Location: St Joe Farm, 52682 Currant Rd, Granger, Indiana  46530

Date: April 20-26, 2024

Location: Various Venues, South Bend, IN

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