Lakeland Students

Develop the skills to lead corporate innovation or start your own company.

Students can earn credit for side gigs, startups, or working for themselves.

Launch: Lakeland Student-Run Businesses

In 2020, Lakeland University introduced Launch: Lakeland Student-Run Businesses, a venture that empowers students to take charge of their own entrepreneurial journeys. Through Launch, students are provided with the tools and support to create, develop, and manage income-generating businesses. Launch currently operates four successful businesses and through these experiences offer a paid opportunity for students and serve as a platform to cultivate cooperative skills and develop strong leadership capabilities. Visit the Launch website to see what job opportunities are available for students. 

Entrepreneur Emphasis (14-15 semester hours)

Michaela Heling, a business administration major at Lakeland, had a remarkable first year by finishing second at The Pitch, a startup business pitch competition in Northeast Wisconsin. She competed against students from other universities and gained attention with her startup, Protean Footwear. Her innovative product, a softball/baseball shoe with interchangeable soles, addresses the struggles athletes face with multiple pairs of shoes for different playing conditions. The idea originated in an Intro to Business course and was further developed through an internship course for entrepreneurial students. With a patent pending, a website, and social media presence, Heling has garnered interest and aims to expand her business into larger markets. Her success reflects Lakeland University's focus on entrepreneurship and the support provided to students in pursuing their business ideas. 

Student Entrepreneur Highlights

Cooperative Education Program

Experiential Learning

Lakeland's Cooperative Education program offers students a unique opportunity to earn academic credit while gaining valuable paid work experience. Lakeland’s Co-Op program compliments traditional classroom learning by recognizing that students learn best by doing and reflecting on their experiences. By participating in Cooperative Education, students can enhance their learning environment by drawing upon real-world experiences and applying their knowledge in professional work environments.  Co-Op opportunities in entrepreneurship include working with small business owners and startups or working for yourself.