Welcome to the Lowder Center for Entrepreneurship newsletter!

We have awesome news and entrepreneurial opportunities to share with you, so be ready to mark your calendar.

Build Like an Entrepreneur in 54 Hours

Ready to build something real? Want to make big progress in one weekend? Join us at the Business Builders Bash. BBB is an immersive 54-hour experience where you’ll pitch ideas, form teams, build prototypes, and test a business model alongside coaches and potential co-founders.

No idea is required, and all experience levels are welcome. You just need curiosity and a willingness to jump in. The event also includes seven catered meals, so you can stay focused and energized all weekend!

Registration opens soon. Visit the page below to learn more.

March 27–29 | Community $30 | Students $10

Unlock Your Business Potential at the Small Business Summit

Starting or growing a business comes with big decisions and many questions. The Small Business Summit, hosted by Guide Resource Group, is designed to guide entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners through the key steps of building and scaling a business.

Join us on February 27, 2026, at the Opelika Chamber for a full day of interactive sessions covering business fundamentals, branding, finances, funding, hiring, sales, and technology.

This event is ideal for anyone early in their entrepreneurial journey or about to launch a business. During the day, you'll learn how to navigate challenges and position your business for growth. You will also gain the chance to build meaningful connections with fellow business leaders and entrepreneurial support organizations.

Registration is $50. Secure your spot today and take the next step toward growing your business.

She Built a Business Out of Caring for Auburn Students

Makitha Griffin is an entrepreneur who saw a need at Auburn and built Mum Away From Mom to meet it with heart. From day one, she consistently took advantage of every opportunity to grow, and it shows in the momentum she’s built since graduating from Jumpstart, our summer small business bootcamp.

Her business, Mum Away From Mom, supports Auburn University students who are far from home with thoughtful care that feels personal and timely. That might look like a surprise treat on a hard week, a small gift to celebrate a win, or practical help when life gets busy. It’s simple, meaningful support that helps students feel seen and cared for.

As her business expanded, Makitha partnered with the Lowder Center’s Startup Studio to design and build a website that makes it easier for families to connect with her services and send encouragement from afar. Most recently, AL.com featured Mum Away From Mom, and we could not be prouder of the impact she’s making in our community.

What's Happening in the Community?

Grow Your Business at the All Things Marketing Summit

The All Things Marketing Summit 2026 is an all-day experience designed to help marketers and small business owners sharpen their skills and prepare for the year ahead. Taking place January 30, 2026, from 8:30 AM–4 PM at the Auburn University Hotel & Conference Center, the summit blends strategy, creativity, and real-world insight. Lunch is provided, and the day concludes with an after-party at Piccolo.

The experience begins the day before with a Pre-Conference Workshop on January 29 from 9–11 AM at the Opelika Chamber, led by Eloise Stewart of Eloise Design Co. The workshop focuses on traditional marketing strategies that continue to drive results in local communities. On summit day, attendees will hear from industry professionals across design, AI, storytelling, and small business marketing, including keynote speaker Mark Snell, who will explore how authenticity and human-centered experiences build trust.

To explore the full agenda, session details, and registration options, visit the link below.