Embry‑Riddle's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship within the David B. O'Maley College of Business is the epicenter of innovation, where students, faculty and the community collaborate, create and turn inventive ideas into thriving businesses. Our focus spans aviation, aerospace, space and transformative technologies, driving economic growth and community well-being through innovation.
Our mission is to inspire, empower and support entrepreneurs, fostering a culture of creativity, innovation and the development of future leaders. Our vision is to be a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, while our core values guide us in promoting inclusivity, excellence, impact, sustainability and empowerment.
We provide resources, mentorship, training, programs and events, serving students, faculty, alumni, startups and local businesses, all driven by a shared passion for innovation and entrepreneurship.
About the Center
The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship inspire, empower, and support innovators and entrepreneurs to transform their innovative ideas into successful businesses and ventures.
Our mission is to cultivate a culture of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and to develop the next generation of leaders and innovators who will shape the future of aviation, aerospace, space and beyond.
Our vision at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is to be a globally recognized hub of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. We strive to be the go-to destination for individuals seeking to turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses and ventures in the aviation, aerospace, and space industries, as well as other transformative technologies.
We envision a future where our center is a catalyst for economic growth and a driving force for positive change in the community. Our vision is to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders and innovators who will create a better world through their entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and passion for innovation.
Our values guide us in fostering an inclusive culture of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit that inspires our students, faculty, and community members to pursue transformative ideas, tackle complex challenges, and drive meaningful impact in the world.
- Innovation: We believe in the power of innovation to drive progress and create value. We encourage and celebrate creativity, original thinking, and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Collaboration: We believe that collaboration is essential to achieving our mission. We foster a supportive and inclusive community that values diversity, openness, and mutual respect.
- Inclusivity: We are committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone feels valued, respected, and heard. We embrace diversity in all its forms and work to eliminate barriers to participation and success.
- Excellence: We strive for excellence in all that we do. We are committed to delivering high-quality programs, services, and resources that meet the needs of our stakeholders and exceed their expectations.
- Impact: We are driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. We seek to create innovative solutions that address real-world challenges and contribute to the betterment of society.
- Sustainability: We are committed to promoting sustainable practices in all aspects of our work. We strive to create a culture of environmental responsibility and social accountability.
- Empowerment: We believe in empowering individuals to realize their full potential. We provide a supportive environment that fosters confidence, independence, and self-motivation.
- Learning: We believe in the power of lifelong learning. We provide opportunities for continuous personal and professional growth, and we encourage experimentation, risk-taking, and continuous improvement.
- Integrity: We hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct. We are transparent, accountable, and responsible in all our dealings, and we strive to earn the trust and confidence of our stakeholders.
- Agility: We embrace change and adapt quickly to new opportunities and challenges. We value flexibility, resilience, and agility in the face of uncertainty.
At the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, we are committed to serving a diverse range of individuals and groups who are interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and related fields.
- Providing resources and support to students, faculty, and staff who are interested in entrepreneurship and innovation.
- Offering training, mentoring, and coaching programs to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as innovators and entrepreneurs.
- Supporting research and development initiatives that address critical challenges in aviation, aerospace, space, and other cutting-edge technologies.
- Promoting environmental responsibility and social accountability through sustainable practices and community engagement.
- Fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity that values and respects different perspectives and experiences.
- Engaging with the wider community to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the region and beyond.
- Hosting events, competitions, and other initiatives that encourage creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship among students, faculty, and staff.
- Offering acceleration programs that help startups and entrepreneurs turn their ideas into viable businesses.
- Facilitating collaborations and partnerships between industry and academia to drive innovation and economic growth.
- Providing access to a global network of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration
Embry‑Riddle’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship serves a wide range of individuals and groups, including:
- Students of all levels, from undergraduate to graduate, who are interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and related fields.
- Faculty and staff who are involved in research and development initiatives in aviation, aerospace, space, and other transformative technologies.
- Alumni who are interested in entrepreneurship, innovation, and related fields.
- Entrepreneurs and startups who are seeking resources, mentorship, and guidance to launch and grow their businesses.
- Local businesses and organizations that are looking to stay competitive and innovative in their industries.
- Investors and funders who are interested in supporting innovative ventures and projects.
- Government agencies and policymakers who are interested in promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the region and beyond.
- The wider community, including non-profits, social enterprises, and other organizations that are interested in pursuing positive social and environmental impact through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Leadership
The Board of Advisors comprises a select group of accomplished leaders and visionaries from diverse backgrounds, industries, and expertise areas. Charged with providing strategic guidance and oversight, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction and priorities of the center. Through regular meetings, collaborative initiatives, and engagements, the Board of Advisors helps ensure that the center remains at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship, driving impactful initiatives and fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
President & CEO / Tuvoli
Chief Operating Officer / Wagepoint
President & CEO / 927 Inc.
Steering Committee
Ahmed Abdelghany, Ph.D.(Chair)
Associate Dean for Research, COB Daytona Beach Campus
Maria Petrescu, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Marketing, COB Worldwide Campus
Scott R. Winter, Ph.D.
Associate Dean for Research, COA Daytona Beach Campus
Seetha Raghavan, Ph.D.
Associate Dean for Research, COE Daytona Beach Campus
Stephanie A. Miller, Ph.D.
Executive Director, Technology Transfer & Research Park Initiatives
Former Advisors
Andrea Kurak
Senior Corporate Counsel, Legal Services / Halifax Health
David Whitney
Partner & Chief Innovation Officer / Health Innovation Partners
James Allen Regenor
Colonel, USAF (ret) Founder & President / VeriTX
Jim Zucco
Founder, Chair Chairman & CEO / Corente
Kyle Slover
Spaceline Maintenance Program Manager / Virgin Galactic
Lilian Myers
Executive Director / Starter Studio
Luis de Bono Paula
Co-Founder & General Counsel / Spirit Monkey
Richard Licursi
Co-Founder & Managing Partner / VenVelo
The Faculty Fellowshipoffers a dynamic platform for faculty members to engage in cutting-edge research, mentorship, and collaboration within the fields of innovation and entrepreneurship. Through active participation in workshops, and events, while providing invaluable mentorship to student entrepreneurs.
With a commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, the center serves as a hub for innovation, empowering faculty to make meaningful contributions to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Maria Petrescu, Ph.D. (Chair)
Research Initiative
Assistant Professor of Marketing, Worldwide Camps
Daisha Merritt, Ph.D.
Social Innovation & Non-Profit Initiative
Associate Chair, Dept. Management & Technology, Worldwide Campus
David C. Garcia, Ph.D
Tech Team Initiative
Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering
John R. Ledgerwood, MSA, CPA, CMA, CFM, CGMA
Accounting and Finance Support Initiative
Associate Professor of Accounting, Daytona Beach Campus
Peter E. O'Reilly, D.P.S.
Faculty Engagement
Associate Professor of the Practice & Certified CTA Coach, Worldwide Campus
Minority & Underrepresented Entrepreneurs Initiative
Director of Research Park Operations, Embry‑Riddle Research Park, Daytona Beach Campus
Embry‑Riddle Veteran-In-Residence, Embry‑Riddle RISE
Attorney at Law, Rodziewicz Law, P.L.
Board Advisor, Moroch Partners
CEO, CODEBOXX
Founder & CEO, African American Entrepreneurs Association, Inc.
Embry‑Riddle Entrepreneur-In-Residence, Ventures Mentors Program
General Counsel, IP Strategist, Founder, and Investor in Pharma Industry
CEO, Southfields, Entrepreneurship Expert, University of Oxford
Executive Director, Technology Lead RTX Ventures
Fractional Chief Sales Officer, Sales Xceleration®
Programs and Resources
At the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, we offer a suite of accelerator programs tailored to entrepreneurs and innovators at every stage of their journey.
- Our ideation stage program is designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their ideas into viable business models, while our build stage program provides support and resources for early-stage startups to refine and launch their products.
- Our seed stage program offers funding and mentorship for established businesses looking to scale, and our Test Flight Bootcamp accelerator program is designed specifically for aviation, aerospace, and other high-tech startups seeking to bring their products to market.
Each of our accelerator programs provides participants with a comprehensive suite of resources and support, including mentorship, networking opportunities, funding, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. We are committed to helping entrepreneurs and innovators achieve their goals and realize their full potential.
At the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, we offer comprehensive consultation services to help individuals and organizations bring their innovative ideas to life. Our team of experienced facilitators, advisors, and consultants provides customized support and guidance, including market analysis, strategic planning, financial modeling, and more. We are committed to empowering entrepreneurs and innovators to achieve their goals, and we work closely with our clients to ensure their success.
Embry‑Riddle Care is a collaborative initiative dedicated to fostering the growth and success of minority and underrepresented entrepreneurs in our community. In partnership with the Daytona Beach City, African American Entrepreneurs Association, CareerSource Florida, Volusia County Chamber of Commerce, and Volusia County Economic Development, we aim to provide vital support to small businesses and early-stage companies.
Our comprehensive program offers resources, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to tailored assistance, empowering entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to the vibrant economic landscape of our region. Together, we are committed to building a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem, where every voice is heard and every dream has the opportunity to flourish.
Embry‑Riddle RISE is committed to empowering veterans, military members, and their families to achieve the entrepreneurial dream through entrepreneurship. We believe in the potential of our veterans and aspire to open doors to economic opportunities for veterans, Guard members, and reservists by enhancing their skills in creating and sustaining entrepreneurial ventures.
What is RISE?
The RISE Program, which stands for Realize, Innovate, Support, and Empower, is dedicated to helping veterans and active-duty service members like you unlock your entrepreneurial dreams. We understand the challenges and opportunities you face in your journey to business ownership, and we're here to offer support, guidance, and resources to make your vision a reality.
Why RISE?
- Realize Your Potential: Our program is focused on helping you recognize your entrepreneurial potential and understand the opportunities available in the world of business ownership.
- Innovate Your Ideas: We encourage you to bring your innovative ideas to life, helping you develop and refine your business concepts.
- Support Every Step: RISE provides a strong support system that includes expert mentors, advisors, and resources to assist you throughout your entrepreneurial journey.
- Empower Your Dreams: Our goal is to empower you to achieve your entrepreneurial dreams and find success in your ventures.
- Program Cost: The RISE Program is free for all veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses. We are committed to supporting your entrepreneurial journey without any financial burden. Your success is our priority.
- How to Get Involved: Applications are warmly welcomed from all veterans, active-duty service members, and militaryspouses who exhibit a strong interest in entrepreneurship and small business ownership. If you reside in Volusia County or currently attending Bethune Cookman University, Daytona State College, Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University, Keiser University, Palmer College, and Stetson University, Embry‑Riddle RISE is your pathway to transforming your innovative ideas into thriving businesses and ventures, ensuring that you have the support and resources you need to thrive in your entrepreneurial journey.
At RISE, we are committed to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses as you embark on the path to entrepreneurial success. Your dedication and service deserve recognition, and we believe in your potential to thrive in the world of business.
Join us in the RISE Program and let's work together to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
We look forward to having you on board!
Our mission is to empower students to become innovative and successful entrepreneurs by providing resources, mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities. We strive to create a supportive community that fosters creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship, and inspires students to take risks, think outside the box, and pursue their passions with confidence and enthusiasm.
ESHIP TECH TALK highlights and awards Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University student-led startups with revolutionary ideas, scalable transformative technologies or cutting-edge technologies that utilize technology transfer programs, such as NASA T2U.
The Facilitator Program at Embry‑Riddle Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is an integral part of our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among our student community. Our program is designed to empower students who are passionate about entrepreneurship to become facilitators, guiding and supporting their peers on their entrepreneurial journeys.
As a facilitator in our program, you will receive comprehensive training and development to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively support fellow students. You will have the opportunity to engage with participants, offering valuable guidance, mentorship, and assistance as they navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.
Our facilitators play a crucial role in creating a collaborative and empowering environment where students can exchange ideas, receive feedback, and work together to realize their entrepreneurial aspirations. By joining our Facilitator Program, you will not only enhance your own leadership and mentoring skills but also contribute to the vibrant culture of innovation and growth at ERAU.
To become a part of our facilitator team, simply send your resume/CV to CIE@erau.edu. Join us in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and making a meaningful impact on the entrepreneurial landscape at Embry‑Riddle and beyond.
Facilitators
- Ravyn M. Edge (Ambassador)
- Caleb M. O’Connor
- Cameron White
- Ella M. Williams
- Kyle J. Penta
- Logan T. Cicala
- Nicholas F. Sontra
- Sarah M. Byrnes
- Taylor D. Varner
- Tre-Vaugh Sheppard
Alumni Facilitators
- Alyssa L. Lang, MBA (Ambassador)
- Adam N. Alim
- Alexander R. Schmucker
- David Parrilla
- Gregory P. Stirrat
- Jim K. Myers
- Johnathon S. Gardner
- Johnathan Fredrick
- Neel Patel
- Oko Nelson
- Ryan Patterson
- Taylor Y. Stroup
- Yali Shiray
Join us for a fun and relaxed happy hour networking event where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry experts in the aviation, aerospace, and high-tech sectors.
Our happy hour events provide the perfect opportunity to expand your network, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations in a casual setting. Meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for innovation and entrepreneurship, while enjoying complimentary refreshments and appetizers. Whether you are a startup founder, industry professional, or student, our happy hour networking events offer a unique and valuable opportunity to build meaningful relationships and expand your professional network.
Come join us and discover the power of connection.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship Week (IE Week) is a dynamic showcase of panels, workshops, evening talks, networking events and the inspiring TREP EXPO. A week dedicated to igniting innovation and fostering entrepreneurial spirit.
Do you have a groundbreaking business idea? Have you developed a concept that would revolutionize aviation, aerospace or engineering? Do you have what it takes to be the next Student-to-CEO? Bring your business idea to life with Launch Your Venture and win up to $15,000 in prizes!
The MicaPlex, the cornerstone building of the Research Park at Embry‑Riddle in Daytona Beach, Florida presents a unique collaborative opportunity for business and the university community to develop, refine and bring new products and technological services to market.
TREP Expo is the first step to showcase venture concepts and give fledgling entrepreneurs exposure. A business competition testing the commercial viability, innovativeness, and overall interest of entrepreneurship.
Our workshop series is designed to provide entrepreneurs and innovators with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Our series covers a range of topics, from ideation and product development to marketing and fundraising. Each workshop is led by an experienced industry professional or academic expert, who brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom. Our interactive and engaging workshops provide participants with actionable insights and practical skills they can apply to their own ventures. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your business, our workshop series can help you achieve your goals.
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Contact Us
David B. O'Maley College of Business1 Aerospace Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114