About John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC)

The John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center (JPEC) is a unique partnership within The University of Iowa among the Henry B. Tippie College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and University of Iowa health sciences. JPEC was founded in 1996 through a generous gift from John and Mary Pappajohn of Des Moines, Iowa.

The University of Iowa is committed to being a national leader in teaching and supporting innovation and entrepreneurial development. The University's undergraduate program has been recognized as a National Model Program by the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. Additionally, the University is regularly rated as one of the top 25 entrepreneurship programs in the United States by Entrepreneur Magazine and The Princeton Review.

JPEC offers a comprehensive entrepreneurial education program to all Iowans. All undergraduate students at The University of Iowa may earn a Certificate in Entrepreneurial Management in addition to their undergraduate degree. Advanced courses are offered to MBA students on campus and at several locations across the state of Iowa.

JPEC plays an important role in the development of Iowa-based technology and high-growth start-up companies. Whether providing one-on-one consulting services, directing UI students on advanced field study projects, or providing training and seminars to business executives, JPEC seeks to support the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.

The Jacobson Institute for Youth Entrepreneurship is part of a larger University of Iowa effort encouraging entrepreneurial engagement at all ages. Through a strong commitment to engage people of all ages in entrepreneurship education, JPEC began offering youth entrepreneurship programs in 1999. In 2007, Richard Jacobson, founder and chairman of the board of the Jacobson Companies made the creation of the Jacobson Institute for Youth Entrepreneurship possible. The Jacobson Institute and JPEC work collectively to inspire the entrepreneurial spirit.

Keep track of JPEC's upcoming events and activities by visiting the online Calendar of Events. Read in-depth stories about JPEC's academic programs and outreach activities by reading the print and online newsletters. Stay abreast of recent JPEC news on the Press Releases page. Learn more about JPEC's rankings, faculty, and staff today!