Tech Side Hustle

​​Have a tech idea? Participate in the Tech Side Hustle program. Here, you will learn skills about starting a side hustle with the focus in technology. All Northeast Ohio college students who are interested in entrepreneurship and how to impact society with technology may join. 

EEC will provide:
  • Webinars
  • Mentoring
  • Funding
  • Networking

All students are eligible receive scholarships to cover the costs of tech credential and certifications.

By participating in Tech Side Hustle, you can expect to:
  • Master basic business concepts
  • Become familiar with local entrepreneurship resources
  • Develop a support network
  • Feel comfortable launching or growing your business in Northeast Ohio

​Program graduates should be able to successfully position themselves for regional and national pitch competitions, accelerator programs, and initial investments.

Tech Internship Program

What is it about?
Every year, ten students will be chosen to intern with NEO startup companies. At these companies, students must complete about 160 hours of work in STEM and tech related areas to utilize their skills in a real-world setting. Students selected for the program will be invited to Tech Side Hustle webinars and have the opportunity to receive mentoring and a scholarship to pursue certifications.

Ways that host companies will benefit:
  • Reduced intern stipend expenses
  • A larger pool of students who will participate in networking events and workshops
  • No extra time commitment 

The goal is to familiarize students with regional entrepreneurship resources and offer them relevant and impactful entrepreneurial experiences. This will make it easier for students to consider launching their career or starting their business in NEO. 
Why join the program?
By joining the program, students will be able to gain real-world experience and grow a deeper understanding of the startup ecosystem. Interns will have the chance to complete tech-related projects and gain skills that will:
  • Build entrepreneurial muscle
  • Improve confidence
  • Build grit

Interns may also receive certifications and mentoring to learn more about the entrepreneurial mindset. 

​IdeaLabs

IdeaLabs is an annual idea competition where undergraduate students from across the region compete for prizes and recognition as a champion. This regional pitch competition is open to students of the EEC member institutions (students of all majors are welcome to participate). 

Individual students or student teams compete on their campuses - The winners then compete regionally for cash prizes. 

The first IdeaLabs took place in 2008, and since 2014, the Fred A. Lennon Trust has generously funded the event. 

IdeaLabs 2022 took place in-person and was hosted by EEC board member, Michael Maczuzak, at his business, SmartShape Design. Lake Erie College was the lead organizer of the competition that attracted entries from ten EEC member school. 

EEC plans to offer IdeaLabs during Spring 2023.

Micro-Credentials Program

Micro-credentials provide a way for students to make quick and accelerated leaps in their education and professional skill building through short courses and certification testing. 

Students attending selected EEC member institutions are eligible to receive guidance and mentorship through a designated faculty member. 

By doing so, students have the opportunity to:
  • Attend webinars to learn more about tech startups
  • Receive reimbursement for the tech certification course and exam fee (if applicable)

This is a pilot program in 2022 and EEC plans to expand the program in the future.