Dan Lauer, the new Chief Entrepreneur Officer at Lindenwood University, believes that universities are in a unique position to significantly contribute to economic development. They act as centers for innovation, education, and research, which are essential catalysts for economic growth.
On January 23, 2025, at the Whitmoor County Club, Dan will give a talk
at the kick off of our 2025 Speaker Luncheon Series.
Accelerators are initiatives aimed at aiding early-stage, growth-focused companies by providing education, mentorship, and funding. These programs are generally short-term, intensive, and strive to enable startups to expand rapidly and effectively.
Lauer says that the Veterans Accelerator is philanthropic where our most promising veterans will be awarded $50,000 while the AI founders will receive $100,000 as equity.
A St. Louis native and alumnus of Saint Louis University High School and the University of Missouri-St. Louis, Lauer brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to his new role. He is the founder of Waterbabies, a top-selling children's toy that has sold over 26 million dolls worldwide. Additionally, Lauer was the founding executive director of UMSL Accelerate, a diversity, equity, and inclusion accelerator.
Lauer's vision for Lindenwood will also include fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. His goal is to make Lindenwood the first choice for aspiring entrepreneurs and to attract impactful partners.