Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute
What is OEI?
Each year, six students from UNI join 24 other students from The University of Iowa, Iowa State University, Buena Vista University, Iowa Lakes Community College, and Dordt University for the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute (OEI) held at Lake Okoboji. Students participate in a rigorous week of programming focused on the growth and acceleration of their startup; seminars with successful entrepreneurs, business leaders and community leaders; and networking. Students find OEI to be one of the most rewarding experiences of their college careers.
When and where will the Institute be held?
OEI 2026 will be held August 9th-14th in Okoboji, Iowa. The classroom setting for the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute is the Okoboji Bible Conference Campus, providing a unique classroom setting unlike any other location in Iowa. Activities are planned for other venues in the Lakes area to showcase this attractive area to students from all across Iowa. All students are housed with host families in the Iowa Lakes region.
Who is sponsoring the Institute and how is it funded?
OEI is supported by Okoboji area businesses; OEI alum; the State Board of Regents; the Iowa Economic Development Authority; the Pappajohn Centers at UIowa, UNI, ISU; Buena Vista University; Iowa Lakes Community College; and the Iowa Lakes Corridor Development Corporation. For student participants, all expenses are paid, (minus the cost of travel to Okoboji).
What have students said about their OEI experience?
“OEI was an extremely beneficial experience for both my business and my college experience. Through OEI, I was able to connect with incredible mentors and build friendships that I know will last a lifetime. My favorite part was meeting like-minded college students who are also pursuing entrepreneurship while balancing college!” -- Alayna Akers, a sophomore artificial intelligence major and owner of Takeover Sales
"OEI was a remarkable experience. The program exposed me to prosperous entrepreneurs, who are eager to 'stretch' and challenge young entrepreneurs. My favorite part about OEI was meeting like-minded students who will forever be great connections, and of course exploring Okoboji!" --Reyna Jorgenson, owner of Recreated by Rey
How do I apply for OEI?
Each spring semester, UNI students can submit an application and essay to compete for one of the six spots. A committee will review the applications and essays and will conduct in-person interviews with the applicants. Six students with the necessary skills, personality traits, and entrepreneurial drive are selected. To apply, email jpec@uni.edu.