student entrepreneur

destination dream event

"LaunchNET was always there to assist with my business goals while navigating the ups and downs of being a college student." - Jada Hobson, Founder of Destination Dream

LaunchNET Kent State
brad smith class visit

We began working with Bradley Smith as he was building up what is now Vinci Learning, a financial education platform for students that gamifies the learning experience. He most recently launched the Wayz to Wealth board game to support this mission — we've already snagged two copies for the office and have had a blast engaging visiting high school students with it.

As a LaunchNET client, Brad has pitched at the Entrepreneurship Education Consortium (EEC)'s ideaLabs competition, received funding via our Morgan Startup Grants, and participated in our end of semester Small Business Showcase.

macara at bounce

Two years ago Macara Hitchcock began working with LaunchNET through the Black Women Bosses program for Aila Aura Fitness and Wellness, a transformative hybrid fitness community that combines the practice of yoga with the unique thrill of aerial yoga/hammock to provide students with a holistic journey toward physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Since then she has continued to participate in our grant opportunities and cohorts and has even taken things a step further by getting involved with the Akron startup community at Bounce Innovation Hub through MORTAR and Life's a Pitch!

LaunchNET Kent State

LaunchNET Kent State

LaunchNET Kent State
audrey at a vendor event

Audrey Ernst is an entrepreneur focused on the sweet things in life. Her passion for baking and sharing are what inspired her business, Audrey’s Baked Creations LLC, and since starting in 2019 she has grown a very authentic and successful brand.

LaunchNET Kent State
Braedy Luxenburg and Coast Contra

Braedy Luxenburg is a multifaceted designer and he is making his mark on the fashion industry. From working with widely known artists to popular luxury brands to pursuing his own designs, Braedy has been involved with the industry at all levels.

LaunchNET Kent State

LaunchNET Kent State
StarAndia headshot

StarAndia Johnson has a vision for her brand and she is making that vision known as she paves her way in the fashion world. Now as a graduate of Kent State, she is using what she learned to fulfill her mission of creativity with sustainable fashion by using produce to create unique pieces.

LaunchNET Kent State
Catherine headshot

Catherine LaSpina has tackled a lot of challenges in her life and currently she is taking on the challenge of being an entrepreneur and doctor at the same time. While this balance between roles is no easy feat, Catherine knew she wanted to pursue these careers since being a child and was willing to do what it takes to reach these goals.