Last year, a study done by Tempe-based Rounds Consulting Group revealed that the UA’s astronomy and space sciences operations alone generate nearly as much money for the local economy every year as a Super Bowl. It’s never an easy calculation to determine how much a city’s educational system contributes to its business sector and economy. Researchers commonly measure the contribution of a city’s colleges and universities using a combination of economic impact studies, workforce development analysis and innovation and entrepreneurship metrics.

Originally from Delhi, India, Sameeka has led a life marked by global transitions and educational pursuits across continents. Her family briefly moved to Chicago while Sameeka was in junior high school, before returning to India to complete her high school education. The University of Arizona came to her attention through a family friend who had started here a year earlier, and she found that UArizona not only offered the programs she was interested in but also at an affordable price. During her time on campus, Sameeka has switched majors, joined clubs, and cultivated a community at FORGE (Finding Opportunities and Resources to Grow Entrepreneurs). In this interview, Sameeka shares her experiences and insights as an international student.

Are you a University of Arizona student intrigued by the idea of turning your hobby or passion project into an actual venture? We know being an entrepreneur is never an easy path to take, especially when you are juggling being a student at the same time. FORGE is excited to announce the arrival of Student-Made at the University of Arizona campus. Student-Made is a unique online shop that supports student creators by giving them a space to buy and sell products and interact with other student creators.

With more than 17,000 courses offered across various disciplines in the university, it is crucial to pick courses that help you build your professional skill set and prepare you for future endeavors. However, navigating the course catalog can feel overwhelming. To assist you in your search to find those courses that explore innovation, entrepreneurship, and venture development, FORGE has compiled a list of courses spread across a multitude of disciplines including engineering, law, fashion, business, humanities, and health sciences.

FORGE aims to cultivate entrepreneurial mindset everywhere the University of Arizona has a presence. On February 21st, FORGE partnered with The Singleton Foundation for Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship, University of Arizona Yuma, and the Southwest AG Summit at Arizona Western College to provide the opportunity for students to learn basic entrepreneurial skills and win cash through a Venture Valley Collegiate Cup Tournament.  Venture Valley is a fast-paced mobile and PC business strategy game where players take on the role of an entrepreneur, pitting their business savvy against others.

Tired of the "hustle and grind" culture that ignores the inevitable stumbles on the road to success? Ditch the shame spiral and get real with Flop!, a program that celebrates failure as a powerful learning tool. Here's the deal: We all flop sometimes, whether it's bombing a presentation, flunking a test, or realizing your passion project was, well, not-so-passionate. But instead of hiding under our blankets (guilty!), Flop! flips the script.

Think TED Talks, but for mistakes. Amazing speakers from diverse backgrounds share their epic fails and the valuable lessons they learned along the way. In just 20 minutes

In today's rapidly changing world, entrepreneurial skills are in high demand. Venturing 101 offers a hub of knowledge and guidance for those who want to build their skillset and transform ideas into reality. This free, asynchronous, online course is designed to equip individuals with an essential understanding of entrepreneurial principles and possibilities. “Venturing 101 did a great job teaching me the basics of starting a business, and I am excited to share that my brand has officially launched,” commented Elias Sitzmann, UArizona Physiology Sophomore and Founder of Ari Everyday Wear about his experience.  “It did so much for me, and continues to support me to this day.” Ari Everyday Wear was started by Elias Sitzmann in 2023. 

We are very pleased to introduce new faces to our FORGE student team: Anika Dadhich, LuisPablo Padres, Katrina Lee, Ahana Singh and Prisha Sachdev.

To be an entrepreneur, a blend of passion, innovation, and resilience is needed to fuel the journey from idea to impact. At the forefront of fostering this spirit is the FORGE Student Startup Residency program at the University of Arizona. The program awards financial grants to students to develop their venture concepts from premise to pitch-ready through a summer boot camp program. The program also provides student employment opportunities.

The Student Startup Residency has expanded and is currently accepting new applicants here. This initiative received a significant boost from distinguished alumnus Harry Wilcox.

FORGE proudly announces the opening of applications for FORGE Student Startup Residency grants. This initiative invites students with venture concepts in the Biomedical, Semiconductor Manufacturing, and/or AI industry areas to participate in an intensive 8-week Summer 'Startup Bootcamp.'  Students can be awarded up to $5,600 for taking part in the bootcamp program and can earn additional funds as student Entrepreneurs in Residence. 

All students who wish to apply must register for a preliminary info session. This Residency provides a valuable opportunity for students to bring startup concepts to life while developing critical entrepreneurial mindset skills.