Blog & News

An exploration of the fragile space between concept and commitment, where real users, fast tests, and focused learning reveal whether an idea is ready to become a first viable version.

A look into the early-stage decisions that turn ideas into manufacturable products. Where disciplined thinking, user insight, and intentional simplicity shape the earliest version that truly matters.

The future of innovation isn’t built in code alone. It’s built in factories, labs, and workshops across Indiana. This event featured five sessions unpacking the hard truths and powerful lessons behind creating physical products that scale.

The audit, conducted by FTI Consulting, found no evidence of illegal activity by Elevate Ventures, affirming their role as a high-performing partner in Indiana’s innovation economy.

Most founders build their data room too late. From real investor checklists to naming conventions that build trust, Matt broke down exactly how and when to prepare your data room and why doing it early isn’t just smart, it’s strategic.

If your deck and your model tell two different stories, investors notice... and not in a good way. Ben Pidgeon laid out a clear roadmap for aligning your narrative and numbers, building investor trust, and avoiding credibility-killing red flags. If you’re raising capital, this one’s a must-read.

Fundraising isn’t just about the pitch; it’s about the paperwork. Attorney Audrey Wessel unpacked the legal essentials every founder should know, from term sheets and SAFE pitfalls to red flags in your docs that could scare off investors. If you’re raising capital, this one’s a must-read.

Aman Brar made an opening challenge to a room of startup founders during the first session of the Fundraising Workshop. A veteran operator and Founding Partner at Ground Game, Aman cut through the ambiguity surrounding venture fundraising and replaced it with something founders already understand: a sales process.

The Fundraising Workshop brought Indiana founders together for a day of clarity, confidence, and tactical insight. From investor pipeline planning to legal structures and financial storytelling, the sessions delivered real tools to help entrepreneurs raise smarter. A sold-out crowd, campfire vibes, and a shared spirit of community made it one to remember.

🎙️ 20 𝙚𝙥𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙨. 50,000+ 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢𝙨. 𝙊𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣. Today, we’re celebrating a major milestone. Episode 20 with none other than Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝘂𝗻𝗗𝗠𝗖.

Learn about the objectives of Institute Innovation Councils and how Elevate Ventures can help you find entrepreneurial success with access to capital, mentorship, and a supportive network.

Learn all about the Indiana Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and take your innovation to new heights with Elevate Ventures!