Charles H. Diller Jr.
Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation
The Charles H. Diller Jr. Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation stands ready to mentor, support, and encourage any student, staff or faculty member who wishes to strike out on their own with an idea. We are laying the groundwork to launch successful businesses, ventures, and contributions to society.
The center also provides additional funding for:
- student competitions
- speaker events
- entrepreneurship mentorships
- student organizations
- study abroad programs
- prospective student outreach
- seminars, conferences, and other opportunities
Mission Statement
The mission of the Charles H. Diller Jr. Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership (the Diller Center) and Innovation including the Milton K. Morgan III Makerspace is to develop both the skill set and the entrepreneurial mind set of students at Shippensburg University to recognize and capitalize on business opportunities. The Milton K. Morgan III Makerspace offers a hands- on, innovative learning space for Shippensburg University students for prototype creation and testing.
Ship Tank is a pitch contest to encourage entrepreneurial thinking within the Shippensburg University student body.
Have you got an idea that you think could be successful in the business world? If you can pitch the idea within 7 minutes in front of 6 judges, then you can compete for a cash prize pool of $5,000 for your business idea! This contest is open to all Shippensburg University students.
February 12, 2024
Application Opens
March 28, 2024 | 11:59 p.m.
Deadline for Written Submission
April 11, 2024 | 6:00 p.m.
Final Pitch - Orndorff Theatre
Requirements: Please read over the Diller Center Ship tank information document before applying, all relevant information will be in this document.
- Diller Center Ship Tank information
- Diller Center Ship Tank Application
- ShipTank Scoring Rubric 2024
- ShipTank Resources for Students
Spectators are allowed and encouraged to attend. There will prizes given out to members of the crowd.
Diller Center Innovation Academy
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January 31 - February 1, 2024
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
For detailed information see Diller Center Innovation Academy
What's this about?
A FREE 2-day program where you and other aspiring entrepreneurs form teams, meet mentors, develop innovative ideas, and unlock your entrepreneurial potential!
What does it cost?
FREE! You get here and we’ll provide the rest. Lunch is provided each day.
Who is the Innovation Academy for?
High School students in grades 10 - 12
I want to participate, but I can’t commit to two days. Am I still welcome?
Priority will be given to those who can complete the full program. Those interested in just one of the two days are encouraged to email dillercenter@ship.edu directly. You will be added to a waitlist and notified if space allows.