IDEA Week

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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!

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

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