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Centers and Institutes

The Zimpleman College of Business Entrepreneurial Centers are here to guide future entrepreneurs to be changemakers in their fields through dynamic innovation, education, and leadership development. Learn more about our programs and resources below!

Programs

The Buchanan Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

The Buchanan Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, established by William and Jean Buchanan, is focused on providing students with up-to-date and challenging academic opportunities. Center offerings include the Zimpleman College of Business entrepreneurship minor and the entrepreneurship track in the management and organizational leadership major.

Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship Outreach

The Zimpleman College of Business Pappajohn Center for Entrepreneurship Outreach, made possible by a gift from John and Mary Pappajohn, serves as a hub for connecting students, alumni, and local businesspeople in a collaborative learning environment.

Des Moines

Drake’s location allows for optimal conditions for your startup. Des Moines proves to be a growing city full of potential for new entrepreneurs. As well as being located in Iowa’s capital, Drake students have access to opportunities to work with many different businesses and can make connections with CEOs, Entrepreneurs, and other business professionals to grow their networks within their first year.

Business Clinic

Targeting small business startups, entrepreneurs, and community organizations in underserved Des Moines neighborhoods, Zimpleman’s Business Clinic is supported by a generous grant from Wells Fargo and other partners. The Clinic is available to help entrepreneurs and innovators establish or grow successful for-profit and/or nonprofit enterprises.

Other Resources

Through the centers, entrepreneurship education offerings are found in every college and school at Drake, from Delta Rx in the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences to app development courses in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication to the music business concentration in the College of Arts and Sciences, entrepreneurial leadership is an important aspect of a Drake education.

The Zimpleman College of Business Career Services Center offers services to help students and alumni get noticed and land internships, research projects, or part-time or full-time jobs.

Drake's Office of Sponsored Programs Administration & Research Compliance (SPARC) provides guidance and support for faculty, students, and staff in research and scholarly activities.