By Elizabeth Smith
The Troutman Entrepreneurship Fund is giving Susquehanna students the chance to turn their businesses into reality.
Established by the generous donations of two alumni, Jameson R. ‘02 and Jennifer A. Engerer ‘02 Troutman, this fund starts with a grant of $250 and students can receive up to $2,000 per school year for their small business.
The Troutman Entrepreneurship Fund is a crucial resource for student entrepreneurs here at Susquehanna, providing not only financial support but also real-world business experience.
The Troutmans said, “Whether you want to start and run your own business or not, the values and experiences of the entrepreneur can benefit everyone.”
This fund is important because there are financial barriers that prevent students from promoting their business ideas. Students often lack the money to cover startup costs such as product development, website creation, marketing and legal fees.
This funding allows students to experiment, learn and innovate without the fear of financial loss. Beyond financial assistance, it also helps identify and address other challenges students face.
“Through the fund we have learned much more about the types of businesses students are starting, as well as the specific gaps they face. As a result, we recognized the need for attorney relationships, insurance providers, accounting support, and even a new partnership with a certified kitchen in Selinsgrove for students interested in the food business,” said Lauren Smith, a lecturer in management and marketing.
The Troutman Fund also opens doors to mentorship, networking opportunities and important business experience to help with long term success.
For student entrepreneur Kimoy Reid, a junior entrepreneurship & corporate innovation major and the founder of Kimoy Unlimited, turning a business idea into a reality was made possible through the support of the Troutman Entrepreneurship Fund’s mentorship program.
What inspired Reid to start her brand was a deep love of fashion, personal struggles and the influence of her family.
“At just eight years old, I told my mom that I wanted to become a CEO and never work for anyone else, I would be my own boss. Today I am proud to say I’ve brought that vision to life with my brand Kimoy Unlimited,” said Ried.
Ried said she had no idea where to get funding for the idea at first until she spoke with Dr. Emma Fleck, the department head of management and marketing as well as a professor in entrepreneurship and marketing, and learned about the Troutman Funding.
“This discovery was a pivotal moment in my journey and has helped me continue to move forward with my brand,” said Ried.
Due to the support of funding, Ried was able to invest in vector mockups, Adobe Illustrator and inventory for her first launch. She has also gained many valuable skills such as persistence, how to network decision-making abilities and the importance of believing in herself.
The advice she gives to other student entrepreneurs who are considering applying for the Troutman Entrepreneurship Fund is, “If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or already on that path, you’ll find all the support and resources you need right here at SU. With determination, passion, and a willingness to take the necessary steps and risks, you can turn any idea into reality. No idea is too small or too unconventional and remember success is often built on overcoming failure.”
To apply for funding, you can apply in MyNest under Academic Resources. The initial grant of $250 has minimal requirements and you can later apply for up to $2,000 per academic year.
Smith and Dr. Fleck oversee the Troutman Entrepreneurship fund, and they look for submissions that are detailed and provide a clear context of what the student is looking for.