Imagine being a college student and having the chance to evaluate real startups, connect with investors, and make funding decisions that could shape the next big idea \u2013 all before you graduate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
That\u2019s exactly what students at Butler University will be able to do through the upcoming launch of the Butler Angel Network<\/a> in Spring 2026, a student-led initiative that bridges classroom learning with real-world venture capital experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThis is more than an investment vehicle,\u201d Craig, Caldwell, Dean of the Lacy School of Business, said. \u201cIt\u2019s a living lab for our students, another example of student-run enterprises at Lacy, a bridge to our alumni, and a bold step toward making Bulter a hub for entrepreneurial leadership and economic development in the Midwest.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Developed and executed by LSB, the Butler Angel Network will give students the chance to actively participate in deal sourcing, due diligence, portfolio analysis, and communication with angel investors \u2013 gaining hands-on experience that will go far beyond the traditional classroom setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Butler Angel Network is the newest addition to a growing lineup of immersive, student-led ventures at the Lacy School of Business. These initiatives are designed to emphasize real-world experience over theory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Students have the opportunity to manage a captive insurance company, oversee a multimillion-dollar Student Managed Investment Fund, conduct company valuations through Bulldog Reports, and even launch their own businesses as sophomores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additional enterprises, including the student-run coffee shop and thrift store, further expand these hands-on learning opportunities. Together, they position Butler among the nation\u2019s top institutions for experiential business education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Through this model, graduates leave prepared to step confidently into their careers as leaders, problem solvers, and entrepreneurial changemakers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The network will also create new ways for alumni and accredited investors to get involved. Alumni will be able to mentor students, invest in startups, and directly contribute to Butler\u2019s growing ecosystem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBy empowering students and connecting them with real-world investment opportunities, Butler is positioning itself as a critical partner in driving regional economic development,\u201d Travis Stegemoller, General Counsel with gener8tor<\/a> said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n