ETX LaunchPad Keeps Students at Forefront

November 20, 2025 | Hannah Buchanan

At the heart of entrepreneurship at The University of Texas at Tyler is the ETX LaunchPad, a hub where ideas take shape and opportunities grow. An extension of the Soules College of Business, the ETX LaunchPad supports economic growth and opportunity across East Texas through programs that foster innovation and entrepreneurship.

It also empowers tomorrow’s innovators, with mentoring and scholarship opportunities for East Texas students beginning at the high school level.

“Through targeted ETX LaunchPad programs, we nurture an innovative and dynamic culture that engages our students, faculty, staff and the greater Tyler community,” said Dr. Krist Swimberghe, Soules College of Business dean. “We’re proud to create a space for all students who show ambition for entrepreneurial ideas.”

Big Idea Pitch

Each year, the ETX Launchpad hosts the Big Idea Pitch competition to celebrate UT Tyler students’ creativity and innovation.

The 2025 competition featured 24 UT Tyler graduate and undergraduate students from various majors who presented innovative business and product ideas across four tracks: AI and Technology, Consumer Products and Services, General, and Health and Life Sciences. View Winners.

“Students showcased early-stage ideas that reflect imagination, problem-solving and entrepreneurial spirit. We congratulate this year’s winners on a job well done,” said Brandon Reynolds, ETX Launchpad director.

KANU Marketplace

ETX LaunchPad’s latest initiative, KANU, is a dynamic platform that centralizes and scales experiential entrepreneurship across UT Tyler. Designed to increase entrepreneurial interest and career readiness among UT Tyler students, KANU at UT Tyler connects entrepreneurship to learning, bridging classroom knowledge with real-world applications.

“With KANU, UT Tyler students across all majors can launch real ventures with real outcomes, from a personal side hustle to student-led startups,” said Andy Alvarado Mora, ETX Launchpad associate director. “Student organizations can also run fundraisers and collect funds, which expands opportunities for innovation, creativity and impact. We hope this helps UT Tyler students turn ideas into experiences that will prepare them for successful futures.”

Once 10 student ventures are launched, the community will be invited to explore the marketplace and can purchase directly from students. Learn more.