Student hackers, entrepreneurs and artists could have dedicated space in downtown Akron to gather, collaborate and sell their creations if the idea wins funding from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.
The three groups that proposed the idea – UA, Kent State and Akron Torchbearers – learned today that their proposal has been named a finalist for a Knight Cities Challenge grant.
The proposal calls for a collaborative, weekend-only popup space in downtown Akron that would serve as a combined hacker space, art gallery, coffee shop and retail boutique for students of Kent State University and The University of Akron.
Two other proposals with UA ties are finalists for a Knight grant.
- One strives to create flash mobs of neighbors to transform empty lots in poor areas of the city. The grant would pay for flower bulbs, live music and a traveling tool truck with sound system, essentially creating a Porch Rokr atmosphere for neighbors to gather to plant bulbs and enjoy fellowship. Students under professor Carolyn Behrman's direction would then research whether "Flashbulb" reduces stress and crime in the neighborhoods. The proposal was submitted by Berhman and Bettie Street Block Watch.
- The other proposal, submitted by UA student David Swirsky, would create space for the creative community in Akron to hold meetings, workshops and programs.
The Knight Cities Challenge encouraged the 26 Knight communities to propose projects that use the power of place to attract and keep talented people, expand economic opportunity and create a culture of engagement. More than 7,000 proposals were submitted.
Related:
- Knight Cities Challenge names 126 finalists
- Akron Beacon Journal: Akron puts 7 finalists among 126 vying for slice of $5 million Knight Cities Challenge pie
The student-run enterprise envisioned in the joint UA/Kent/Torchbearers proposal would feature art, food and products for sale to the public (developed by students from each respective institution) and the venue would serve as a meeting space for UA/KSU students to collaborate on entrepreneurially minded projects that have the potential for economic and social impact in Akron.
A diverse 24-member student advisory board would run the enterprise.
The venture would be overseen by an ad-hoc committee of staff from both institutions as well as from Akron’s Torchbearers to provide the students with connections to Akron’s existing talent and resources to build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Akron.
"We are thrilled to partner with our regional sister institution Kent State to advance an idea that will enhance student success through entrepreneurship and engagement," said Candace Campbell Jackson, vice president for student success and vice provost. "Collaboration is the key to leveraging resources and growing opportunity for our students, institutions and the region."
Kate Harmon, associate director of Kent State University’s Blackstone LaunchPad, said, “I am particularly thrilled to be working with The University of Akron on this initiative. Given the enormous student talent between our respective institutions, I am excited to see what entrepreneurial student collaborations will develop out of this project and look forward to the breadth of resources and connections that Torchbearers will be able to provide these young leaders to keep them engaged in Northeast Ohio.”
The foundation will announce in March which projects will be funded.
Media contact: Dan Minnich, 330-972-6476 or dminnich@uakron.edu
