By Ted A. Baker, CEO, Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc.—
MUNCIE, IN—Now entering its fourth year, Business Showcase Week 2025 at the Muncie Innovation Connector promises to be the most expansive and inspiring yet. Aligned with Global Entrepreneurship Week 2025, this signature event will feature more workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and collaborative meet-ups than ever before, reinforcing Muncie’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurial growth. This year’s theme is “Celebrate. Educate. Collaborate.”
Here are a few events that we would like to highlight.
Opening Kickoff Celebration & Entrepreneur Impact Awards, Monday, November 17: 8:00 – 9:30 AM – Showcase Week kicks off with the Opening Kickoff Celebration, where the Innovation Connector will honor five outstanding entrepreneurs with the 2025 Entrepreneur Impact Award. These visionary leaders exemplify resilience, community engagement, and business excellence:
- Kristie Koch – School-Based Behavior Consultation
- Huseyin Ergin – Ergin Technologies, LLC
- Bryan Matheny – Perfect Fit Plus, LLC
- Jessica Hall – Gifted Gourmet
- Juliann Barnes – JULIANNBARNESDESIGNS
Also, during this time, the newly constructed Muncie Innovation Connector, Inc., Library for Lifelong Learning will be dedicated in honor of all past and current members of the Innovation Connector Board of Directors.
Later that evening, the Innovation Connector will host a welcome reception for the Indiana Starters Coalition and Right to Start Indiana, bringing together startup founders, small business owners, and ecosystem builders. Enjoy food, beverages, and meaningful conversations in a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. Attendees will hear from five entrepreneurs/business owners about their startup journeys, as well as several area elected officials who shape policies that impact our local business ecosystem.
Other Workshops and Meetups Throughout the Week:
Tuesday, November 18, is packed with dynamic programming:
- 2:00 PM – “The Credit Playbook: Simple Moves, Big Wins” led by Mayor Dan Ridenour, a must-attend session on mastering personal and business credit.
- 6:00 PM – Tech and Innovation After Hours: Muncie Tech Meet-Up at The Clubhouse, downtown Muncie. Expect games, refreshments, and engaging networking for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.
- Raising capital for your business
- Marketing strategies and HR tools
- AI discovery and implementation
- The health and wellness of business owners
- The evolving role of manufacturing in the Muncie community
- QuickBooks training and tips
- Women in Tech
- … and much more!
In addition, pre-Showcase Week workshops will be held during the first two weeks of November and include:
- Business sessions for Nonprofit leaders
- In-School program, START SOMETHING NOW, for Junior and Senior High School students
- STEM-focused programs for K–8 students
All Showcase Week events are completely free to attend, thanks to the support of over 25 business and organizational partners.
A special thanks goes to:
Title Partner:
- First Merchants Bank
Business Impact Partners:
- Arrowhead Plastic Engineering
- Spotted Monkey Marketing
- R & R Engineering Co.
- Prime Trust Federal Credit Union
- Indiana Michigan Power Foundation – Business Impact Partners
While every event is free, registration is required. Reserve your spot today at www.showcaseweek.com.
Join us for this vibrant celebration of innovation, learning, and community. Business Showcase Week 2025 is more than an event—it’s a movement.
Be part of it.
