Teaching assistant Kimberly Ortiz uses equipment at The Garage
At an academically rigorous university, on a campus teeming with traditional study spaces, there’s often a gap between the classroom and the real world—a place where ideas can move beyond ideation, into practice. The University of Denver recognized this need and sought to bridge that gap by creating a unique environment where students can experiment, innovate and collaborate across disciplines.
The Garage, located at 1986 S. York St., is not any ordinary workspace—it’s a dynamic innovation hub where creativity, entrepreneurship and teamwork thrive.
Since its inception in December 2020, The Garage has become a cornerstone of the University of Denver’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. It has helped launch numerous startups, provided a platform for innovative research and cultivated an entrepreneurial mindset across campus. It is a space for students to bring their ideas to life, forge new ventures and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship@DU’s headquarters is aptly named for its resemblance to the humble garages in which many of today’s tech giants began. Inside the brick house is an inviting, supportive and flexible space. Here are six ways students can use it to move their ideas from concept to reality.
- Collaborate across disciplines
One of the most valuable aspects of The Garage is its ability to bring together students from various fields of study. Business majors, engineers, artists and social scientists can work with one another, leveraging their diverse skill sets to tackle complex problems. - Access mentorship and guidance
The Garage is not just a space; it’s a community. Entrepreneurs-in-residence, faculty members and industry professionals are regularly available to help, students. Whether a student needs a hand refining their business plan, navigating legal challenges or developing a marketing strategy, they’ll find the expertise they need to succeed. -
Develop and test business ideas
The DU Fashion and Sewing Club meets in The Garage
For aspiring entrepreneurs, The Garage offers a fertile ground to take a concept from ideation to execution. The space is equipped with resources like 3D printers, design software, sewing and embroidery machines, T-shirts, sticker makers, and other tools that help students test prototypes, refine their products and bring their ideas to life. - Pitch and secure funding
Once an idea has been developed, The Garage provides opportunities to pitch it to potential investors. Through showcases, competitions and networking sessions, students can meet angel investors, venture capitalists and other funding sources, potentially allowing them to secure the capital needed to launch their venture. - Engage in workshops and events
The Garage regularly hosts workshops, seminars and guest speaker events that cover a wide range of topics relevant to entrepreneurship. From lean startup methodologies to effective storytelling, these events are designed to equip the startup community with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the entrepreneurial world. - Join a community of innovators
Perhaps most importantly, The Garage is a space to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for innovation. The sense of community is strong; for many students, The Garage is more than just a place to work. It’s a launchpad for their careers and a place where lifelong friendships and professional relationships are formed.
In a world where entrepreneurship is increasingly seen as a key driver of economic and social change, The Garage stands out as a vital resource. It empowers students not just to dream, but to take tangible steps toward making those dreams a reality. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just beginning to explore the world of business, The Garage is a place to grow, learn and innovate.