Ideas Exchange: Sparking Innovation at Syracuse University

Students from across campus eager to explore the frontiers of innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity are invited to attend this  student-designed and student-led event to engage with experts, resources and peers in a dynamic and interactive environment.

The Idea Exchange is more than just a networking event—it’s an incubator for ideas, where students can find inspiration, seek guidance and connect with the right resources to bring their projects to life. The event features two simultaneous components: The Resource Emporium and Ask the Experts. Sponsored by SU Libraries, the Syracuse University NSF I-Corps and the Orange Innovation Team, this event is for aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators and those simply curious about the creative and startup ecosystem at Syracuse.

The Resource Emporium: Your Gateway to Innovation

On the first floor of Bird Library, a diverse lineup of organizations will host information tables to provide students with resources to help develop their ideas, start businesses and enhance their creative projects. Whether students are looking to create a prototype, launch a creative idea, secure funding for an idea or learn more about innovation at SU, The Resource Emporium will offer access to the right tools and people to take their ambitions further.

Ask the Experts: Conversations That Ignite Ideas

In a format inspired by “Human Library” events, the Ask the Experts session will feature more than 20 confirmed peer specialists and professionals across various fields engaging in small-group conversations. These sessions, held in the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons (Room 114 in Bird Library), will provide students with the chance to ask questions from student and alumni thought leaders, receive tailored advice and gain valuable insights into the skills needed to thrive in innovation, creation and entrepreneurship.

Each discussion will be an opportunity to learn from expert peers and experienced professionals as well as spark innovative ideas through engaging conversations. The curated topics and expert insights are designed to empower students with practical knowledge and the confidence to move forward with their ventures.

Mix It Up: Networking and Refreshments

To wrap up the event, attendees will have the chance to mingle and network from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons. Light refreshments will be provided, creating a casual and welcoming environment for students to connect with peers, experts, and resource representatives.

Register now