Thought into Action Institute

Through a new collaboration between Colgate, Quinnipiac, and The Gotham Film and Media Institute, students are getting a deeper, more hands-on experience at the Cannes Film Festival.

Colgate’s campus buzzed with energy as alumni, students, founders, and funders came together to celebrate and support the next generation of change-makers during Arts, Creativity, and Innovation Weekend.

Meet the teams participating in the 2025 TIA Summer Accelerator. From smart tech and sustainable farming, to music, wellness, and travel, these ventures reflect an incredible range of talent.

Our recent TIA Incubator weekend showcased the strength of mentorship, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit at Colgate, with an inspiring keynote from Mandy DiMarzo ’02 and interactive activities focused on go-to-market strategy and preparing for the rapidly-approaching TIA Entrepreneur Showcase.

Alana Conolly ’27, a sophomore from Rochester, N.Y., is on a mission to change the lives of dogs in need worldwide.

TIA Incubator January Weekend brought together Colgate student ventures and alumni mentors for a series of engaging events following winter break.

After developing anorexia nervosa due to digestive issues, Charlotte Prendergast '25 worked on seeking ways to improve her well-being without relying on medications. With that, Trust Beverages was born: an algae-based water crafted to support digestive health and mental well-being.

Teamwork makes the dream work! Our third incubator session of the year focused on the art of team building, featuring hands-on workshops, mentor-led discussions, and dynamic networking.

Nathan Walsh ’28 founded Students Helping Students to help students in Jamaica navigate the U.S. college application process.

This fall, Colgate’s Thought Into Action (TIA) program has empowered student entrepreneurs to refine their ideas, build ventures, and connect with mentors. With the support of 26 alumni mentors, Incubator Weekends helped student entrepreneurs push their ideas forward.