Student Business Incubator

WHAT IS THE STUDENT BUSINESS INCUBATOR?

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts Student Business Incubator (SBI), administered by the STCC Entrepreneurial Institute, located in the Scibelli Enterprise Center, is the 'hatchery' where new entrepreneurial start-ups, created by high school and college students, are nurtured. The Student Business Incubator helps bridge the gap between academics and a real world entrepreneurial experience with a supportive environment including individual advisors and mentors. Students receive ongoing coaching, information resources, technical assistance, and access to capital. Student businesses receive other support including a computer with Internet access as well as use of phone, fax, copier, and invitations to participate in workshops and seminars sponsored and co­sponsored by the STCC Entrepreneurial Institute.

To enroll in the Student Business Incubator, students must go through an interview process which includes a tour of the student business incubator, an initial meeting with the Student Business Incubator Coordinator and submission of a preliminary business plan.  This is followed by a comprehensive interview and evaluation process by successful entrepreneurs and STCC faculty.

By providing critical assistance during the start-up phase, the Student Business Incubator helps overcome the odds of business failure. While students grow their business and gain credibility in the marketplace the Incubator provides business information resources and technology assistance. Students can realize their dreams and build their entrepreneurial confidence while learning how to secure funding to expand their venture.

WHAT DO STUDENTS LEARN IN THE STUDENT BUSINESS INCUBATOR?

It is proven that business incubators promote the success of entrepreneurial ventures because they provide on-going support and guidance to the entrepreneur. At the Student Business Incubator, for a minimal charge of $50 a month, students receive the following services: computers, internet access, telephone, printers, fax/copier, support from mentors and STCC faculty members, Entrepreneur Round Tables, business-related workshops/seminars, technical assistance, business plan developmental assistance, free parking, office security, and 24-hour access to the Incubator. Individualized support for student entrepreneurs is facilitated by the SBI Coordinator in a variety of ways including mentors and business advisors as well as specialized training sessions.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE STUDENT BUSINESS INCUBATOR?

Area high school or college student with a preliminary business plan and a desire to build his or her business.

STUDENT BUSINESS INCUBATOR AFFILIATIONS

  • Springfield Technical Community College's School of Business and Information Technologies
  • Faculty and business professionals at area colleges and universities
  • Local and regional high schools
  • Community-based organizations
  • Collaborating business support organizations