Published on Oct. 24, 2024
From customizable hats and sneakers to lotus-infused energy drinks, the products available from Mizzou student-run storefronts this year run the gamut. Aided in setting up their businesses by the students and faculty in the Mizzou Law Entrepreneurship Legal Clinic, several Mizzou undergraduate students have earned the opportunity to open storefronts in Missouri Student Center and beyond.
This annual hands-on experience is sponsored by Griggs Innovators Nexus (GIN), Missouri Student Unions and U.S. Bank, offering innovative Tigers an opportunity to showcase their products and receive mentorship.
To support their retail efforts, each student entrepreneur receives $2,000 for startup costs, a credit card reader and an iPad to manage sales. As aspiring entrepreneurs, four of the six students selected worked with the ELC to receive pro bono legal help in setting up their businesses legally. Read more about them below and how the ELC helped them get started.
Columbia Sneaker Exchange
Location: MU Student Center Room 1206
What it is: Affordable and relevant sneakers, fitted hats and other related items.
Operator: Kobe Messick, a junior secondary education English Language Arts major from Independence, Missouri.
“I have worked with the ELC twice, both times were pleasant experiences. Don and his team are extremely welcoming and professional. They taught me most of what I know about business law that I’ve used to established three different LLCs in college.”
Soundcheck
Location: 110 Orr Street, Suite 104, Columbia, Mo.
What it is: A fully equipped music studio that provides musicians with professional-grade instruments, soundproof rooms and a seamless tech-enabled booking system. Beyond just a practice space, Soundcheck is a hub where musicians can connect, collaborate and grow their skills.
Operator: Kiley Grimes, a senior business major and economics minor, from Springfield, Illinois.
“I reached out to the ELC when I had a business idea and wanted to create an LLC to start raising money. They helped me fill out documents I didn’t even know existed; as a first-time founder, there are so many learning gaps, and legal formation was a challenge that the ELC was able to help me solve. I’m working with them now to file a trademark and I’m beyond grateful for their guidance and support, for me and the hundreds of other entrepreneurs they’ve helped.”
Customizable energy drinks
Location: MU Student CenterRoom 1210D
What it is: Customizable lotus energy drinks.
Operator: Reagan Eaves, a senior interpersonal communication major, from Nauvoo, Illinois.
“My experience working with the ELC was incredibly valuable, providing me with insightful guidance and support while switching my business from a sole proprietorship to an LLC. The personalized feedback and resources they offered made a significant impact on my business’s professional growth.”