Indiana colleges land grants to support startup projects
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Franklin College, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Saint Mary’s College, Trine University and the University of Evansville have received a total of $100,000 in grants from the Ball Venture Fund for initiatives that stimulate creativity and innovation.
The Ball Venture Fund competitive grant program, established by the Ball Brothers Foundation of Muncie, is open to Indiana’s 29 private, not-for-profit colleges. The five winners among 29 proposals were selected by a panel of judges, including foundation representatives and Presidents Council members of the Independent Colleges of Indiana, the organization that administers the grants.
Franklin College will apply its $25,000 to teach about sustainable energy through the use of electric go-karts. The go-karts will be incorporated into physics coursework, a series of programs for middle and high school students, and training for K-12 teachers.
The Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute will use its $14,000 to help first-generation college students transition to college by creating a community among peers, faculty and staff through various events and initiatives.
Saint Mary’s College at Notre Dame will use its $20,000 to expand an alternative grading system and research its effects on test anxiety and learning outcomes in chemistry courses.
Trine University in Angola will use its $20,500 to launch the Trine University Esports Arena, which will expand its current program. The arena will include a streaming studio for live gaming content, and the grant will further a partnership with Easterseals Northern Indiana to make the space accessible for individuals with disabilities.
The University of Evansville will apply its $20,500 to launch Ace Consulting, a student-operated planning and financial analysis consultancy for local businesses and not-for-profits.