At the annual Butler Tech Entrepreneur Fair, students don’t just display products, they pitch passion, purpose, and impact. This year, Dan Bates, President & CEO of the Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, responded by announcing during the Entrepreneur Celebration Luncheon that every student entrepreneur who participated would be gifted a one-year membership to the Chamber.
The decision was inspired by Bates’ firsthand conversations with student business owners during the fair, where he saw their drive, creativity, and professionalism on full display.
The Entrepreneur Fair is an annual showcase that invites Butler Tech students to launch their businesses, sell their products, and engage with the public, many for the very first time. This new Chamber membership amplifies that experience, offering real-world connections and resources to support students beyond the classroom.
With their Chamber membership, students will gain access to networking events, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources, all while reinforcing their identity as real entrepreneurs. By providing access to real-world business resources, mentorship, and professional networking, the membership offers more than just a seat at the table. Most importantly, it empowers students to scale their dreams, strengthen their confidence, and make a lasting difference in their communities as the next generation of innovators and leaders.
“Our student entrepreneurs are some of the most incredibly driven and passionate people I’ve ever met,” shared Jeremy West, Entrepreneurship Coordinator at Butler Tech.
“Being an entrepreneur means putting yourself out there—it’s vulnerable, it’s bold, and it takes real courage to create something from nothing and share it with the world. To have the Chamber recognize that work, and to welcome these students as members, is one of the highest honors they could receive. It tells them, ‘You belong here.’ And that’s something they’ll carry with them forever.”
This gesture not only boosts student confidence but also strengthens community connections and paves the way for lasting success. We’re incredibly proud of our student entrepreneurs and grateful to Dan Bates and the Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce for their support and belief in the potential of our students.
