Podcast Episode # 120 - Empowering Young Innovators in Indiana: The Story of the STARTedUP Foundation with Don Wettrick

Episode # 120 of the Econ Dev Show Podcast is now live. Go listen.

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In this episode, Dane talks with Don Wettrick. He is the founder and CEO of the STARTedUP Foundation, which hosts Innovate WithIN – Indiana's innovation and entrepreneurship programming and competition.

He is also the author of “Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation,” which aims to create innovation mindsets in our schools.

Wettrick, a former teacher, recognized the need for practical, real-world skills in the education system. His foundation provides a dynamic environment where students can explore, create, and develop business ideas, gaining invaluable experience in entrepreneurship. The foundation hosts annual competitions, fostering a spirit of innovation among students and providing them with a platform to showcase their creative solutions to real-world problems.

This initiative not only equips students with entrepreneurial skills but also connects them with industry professionals and mentors. These connections provide students with guidance, feedback, and a deeper understanding of the business world. The foundation's impact extends beyond the individual, as it cultivates a culture of innovation and problem-solving within the community, making a significant contribution to local economic development.

Actionable Takeaways

1. Encourage entrepreneurial thinking in education to foster creativity and innovation among students.
2. Integrate real-world problem-solving and business skills into the school curriculum.
3. Create platforms for students to pitch and develop their business ideas.
4. Establish mentorship programs connecting students with industry experts.
5. Organize competitions and events to stimulate student innovation and entrepreneurship.
6. Facilitate hands-on learning experiences for practical understanding of business concepts.
7. Promote a culture of creative risk-taking and iterative learning in schools.
8. Highlight the importance of networking and professional connections in entrepreneurship.
9. Track and showcase the success of student entrepreneurs to inspire and motivate others.
10. Advocate for educational reforms that prioritize innovative and entrepreneurial skills.

Episode Links

• Don Wettrick | LinkedIn
• STARTedUP Foundation
• Innovate WithIN — STARTedUP Foundation
• Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation and Taking 20% Time to the Next Level by Don Wettrick
• An Entrepreneurial Way of Being: Finding Ikigai Through Innovation | Don Wettrick | TEDxPurdueU — Don Wettrick is a high school teacher in Noblesville, Indiana with a passion for helping people explore their passion outside of their everyday curriculum. He started an after-school entrepreneurship program called StartEdUp that provides a platform for students and teachers to actively change education through innovation and entrepreneurship in the classroom. Don Wettrick is the founder of The STARTedUP Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to foster innovation and entrepreneurship for youth. He is also the author of “Pure Genius: Building a Culture of Innovation” and host of the "STARTedUP” podcast. Don is known for his award-winning work as a middle school and high school teacher; educational and innovation consultant; and educational speaker. 
• Innovation Specialist on Unlearning - Don Wettrick — Youtube
• Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink
• Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? by Seth Godin