Dean′sVentureFund（二）.docVIP

The University of Akron College of Fine and Applied Arts Dean’s Venture Fund The Dean’s Venture Fund will provide start-up funding for entrepreneurial ventures in the College of Fine and Applied Arts. Priority will be given to proposals that show a high probability of becoming self-sustaining. Any venture must be aligned with the University’s vision, strategic intent, strategies, and priorities and at least one of the five College strategic directions: Strengthen Teaching Strengthen Research and Creative Activities Improve Fiscal Strength Support and Empower People Tell the Story Some examples of mature ventures in the College of Fine and Applied Arts include the Dance Institute, the Hearing Aid Dispensary of the Audiology and Speech Clinic, design x nine, and the Program for Nutrition Intervention. WZIP, Z-TV, and E. J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall all began as ventures. Who is eligible to receive venture funds? Individuals or groups may apply. The venture leader must be a full-time faculty or staff member in the College of Fine and Applied Arts. Collaborative proposals from two or more schools are encouraged. Venture proposals must have the school director’s endorsement. Priority will be given to ventures that have clear educational benefits for students in the College. How much funding is available? The College will offer a maximum of $40,000 in the first year to cover all approved proposals. Expenditures from the fund may be in a single year, or spread over more than one year. The fund is intended to promote revenue streams for academic programs in the College. An award is essentially a loan: ventures will be expected to repay the venture fund on a schedule to be negotiated, and repayments will replenish the Venture Fund for future awards. What is the application deadline and funding cycle? For the first round of funding, applications are due June 1, 2005. For subsequent years, Venture Fund applications will be received no later than the end of the fi