The Ozmen Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Nevada, Reno has reached a major milestone: 10 years of transforming ideas into reality. Established in 2014, the centre has become a powerhouse for innovation, nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit within the university’s students and faculty.
Founded through the generous support of Eren and Fatih Ozmen, the owners of SNC, a global leader in aerospace and national security, the Ozmen Center has helped to create an environment where entrepreneurship thrives. With a focus on practical experience, cutting-edge education, and global outreach, the centre plays a crucial role in shaping Nevada’s next generation of innovators.
A Legacy of Leadership: How the Ozmen Center Began
The Ozmen Center for Entrepreneurship owes its creation to the vision of Eren and Fatih Ozmen, who both earned graduate degrees from the University of Nevada, Reno. Eren, chairwoman of SNC, earned a master’s degree in business, while Fatih, SNC’s CEO, holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering. Their journey from students to leaders in the aerospace and defence sectors serves as a testament to the University’s impact on their lives.
Their significant gift established a centre dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial capabilities and providing students with the resources they need to succeed in launching their own businesses. Through the centre, students are empowered to turn business ideas into tangible innovations, much like the Ozmens did themselves.
Key Achievements in the Past Decade
Over the last decade, the Ozmen Center has built an impressive track record, transforming the College of Business into a national leader in entrepreneurship education. Here are some of the most notable achievements:
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Entrepreneurship as a Top Choice for Students: Entrepreneurship has now become the third most-selected minor among business students. This rise highlights the growing interest in startups and innovation within the university’s curriculum.
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Sontag Entrepreneurship Competition: The Ozmen Center hosts the annual Sontag Entrepreneurship Competition, a prestigious event that attracts teams from across the university to compete for a $50,000 prize. This competition provides invaluable exposure and support for students with entrepreneurial dreams.
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International Women’s Entrepreneurship Symposium: In 2023, the Ozmen Center hosted a global virtual event featuring 40 speakers and nearly 1,000 participants. The symposium highlights the centre’s commitment to diversity and women in entrepreneurship, addressing global challenges and creating networking opportunities for future leaders.
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Collaborations with Government and Industry: The Ozmen Center works closely with the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development, further cementing its role as a catalyst for economic growth and global initiatives. The center’s research and programming on entrepreneurial activity have become central to the state’s business development strategy.
These efforts have made the Ozmen Center an integral part of the University of Nevada, Reno’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the campus.
The Ozmens’ Vision: Supporting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
For Eren and Fatih Ozmen, the Ozmen Center is more than just a facility – it’s a passion project. Reflecting on the centre’s growth, Eren Ozmen remarked, “The University of Nevada, Reno catalyzed our true American Dream story and holds incredible meaning for both Fatih and me.”
Their vision for the centre has always been clear: to create a hub for entrepreneurship that drives new learning, fosters creativity, and encourages students to pursue their own business ventures. The couple’s commitment to supporting the centre has resulted in significant investments, including a recent $1.13 million donation to establish the Aerospace & Defense Academy.
The Aerospace & Defense Academy: Nurturing Talent for a New Era
A key development in the Ozmen Center’s next phase is the creation of the Aerospace & Defense Academy. This academy will play a crucial role in the training and development of skilled workers for the growing aerospace and defence industries. The program will not only provide education but also offer unique platforms for small businesses, including woman-owned ventures, to thrive.
By supporting small businesses and fostering entrepreneurial innovation within these high-tech industries, the Ozmen family’s commitment continues to shape Nevada’s workforce of tomorrow.
The Impact on the Nevada Community and Beyond
Greg Mosier, dean of the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno, notes that the Ozmen Center has been integral to the development of entrepreneurship programs at the university. “The Ozmen Center has played a central role in helping establish the College and University as a nexus for entrepreneurship across the community and region,” Mosier said.
As the centre continues to grow and evolve, its impact reaches far beyond the university campus. The Ozmen Center is an essential component of the state’s economic development strategy, attracting talent from across the country and encouraging students to turn their ideas into successful businesses.
Looking to the Future: What’s Next for the Ozmen Center?
As the Ozmen Center enters its second decade, the focus remains firmly on innovation, education, and fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs. With new funding, programs, and global collaborations on the horizon, the centre is well-positioned to continue its legacy of empowering students and faculty alike.
The Ozmens’ support has laid the foundation for what promises to be an exciting future for both the centre and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in Nevada. From launching new initiatives to fostering creative partnerships, the Ozmen Center is ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s business world.
Conclusion: A Decade of Empowerment and Innovation
As the Ozmen Center for Entrepreneurship celebrates 10 years of remarkable achievements, its impact on the University of Nevada, Reno and the broader entrepreneurial community cannot be overstated. Through its innovative programs, prestigious competitions, and global initiatives, the centre continues to inspire the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and entrepreneurs.
For students with big ideas and a drive to succeed, the Ozmen Center offers the tools, guidance, and resources needed to turn their dreams into reality. And with continued support from the Ozmens, the centre’s journey is only just beginning.
