Entrepreneurship Scholars – Regnier Institute

New name. Same mission. Bigger Impact.

After listening to feedback from alumni, mentors, and our community, we’ve renamed the Entrepreneurship Scholars (E-Scholars) program to the Regnier Venture Accelerator.

Since 2011, E-Scholars has helped early-stage entrepreneurs at UMKC and beyond with mentorship, resources, and community. But the name wasn’t always clear—many didn’t know what the “E” meant, “Scholars” felt purely academic, and it didn’t convey the competitive, high-impact nature of the program.

Our new name better reflects who we are: a hands-on, early-stage accelerator that propels entrepreneurs forward with the backing of the Regnier Institute brand, a strong mentor network, and powerful community connections. This change honors our history while positioning us for even greater impact in the years ahead.

Accelerate Your Entrepreneurial Journey

Founders learn from successful Kansas City entrepreneurs and expert faculty and leave with a solid plan to launch and grow their venture. Established in 2010, Regnier Venture Accelerator (RVA) is amongst the longest continually running accelerators in Kansas City.

Apply to Regnier Venture Accelerator

Eligibility

The Regnier Venture Accelerator program is open to UMKC students, students from other institutions and individuals from the community at-large. Admission to the program is competitive, and each application is reviewed by a committee. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates must be available to actively participate in all workshops, activities, and programs.

How to apply

“The Regnier Venture Accelerator program helped me turn an OK business concept into a viable business plan with great prospects, and matched me with the mentors and resources necessary to help turn our plans into ongoing operations.”

Tim Sylvester, Integrated Roadways

Regnier Venture Accelerator and UMKC Alumni

Turning Passion into Practice

Founders admitted to this competitive program can expect to practice multiple business activities. These activities not only provide practical experience but also equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to succeed in their entrepreneurial journey.

Network

Network with other founders in the program, alumni, and members of the Regnier Institute Mentor Network.

Interview

Interview members of their target market to get valuable insights into their needs and opportunities in their industry.

Build

Build a minimum viable product to test assumptions and validate business ideas.

Establish

Establish a legal entity and set up a bank account to collect on your first sales.

Strategize

Set strategic goals to launch and grow your business.

Prepare

Prepare for and compete in pitch competitions with awards up to $15,000.

Regnier Venture Accelerator Perks

Founders in the program have access to the several perks.

Direct access to the Certified Entrepreneurship Mentors in the Regnier Institute Mentor Network.
Pro-bono legal services through the UMKC Entrepreneurial Legal Services Clinic.
Apply for scholarships to cover part of or all the out-of-pocket costs of the program.