Dan Lauer, the new Chief Entrepreneur Officer at Lindenwood University, believes that universities are in a unique position to significantly contribute to economic development. They act as centers for innovation, education, and research, which are essential catalysts for economic growth.
Next month, he will unveil his plan to establish two new programs at LU: a Veterans Accelerator and an AI Accelerator.
Accelerators are initiatives aimed at aiding early-stage, growth-focused companies by providing education, mentorship, and funding. These programs are generally short-term, intensive, and strive to enable startups to expand rapidly and effectively.
Lauer says that the Veterans Accelerator is philanthropic where our most promising veterans will be awarded $50,000 while the AI founders will receive $100,000 as equity.
A St. Louis native and alumnus of Saint Louis University High School and the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Lauer brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to his new role. He is the founder of Waterbabies, a top-selling children's toy that has sold over 26 million dolls worldwide. Additionally, Lauer was the founding executive director of UMSL Accelerate, a diversity, equity, and inclusion accelerator.
Lauer's vision for Lindenwood will also include fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. His goal is to make Lindenwood the first choice for aspiring entrepreneurs and to attract impactful partners.
Mark your calendar: the Progress 64 West Luncheon, with Dan Lauer, will take place on January 23rd. Further details will be provided soon.