Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a child’s eyes meet the eyes of a leader and they see a reflection of themselves. Watching these two little girls share space with the Mayors of Clarkston and Atlanta isn't just a highlight of First Friday—it is the very 'why' behind everything we do at RICE.

We aren't just building businesses; we are planting seeds of possibility. When we bridge the gap between where a child stands today and where our leaders stand now, we give them permission to dream without borders. Moments like this remind us that our greatest legacy isn't what we build, but who we empower to build next.

“I believe you have to be willing to be misunderstood if you're going to innovate.” — Jeff Bezos

Innovation requires more than great ideas—it requires resilience. The kind that allows you to move forward even when others don’t fully see your vision yet.

At the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, we are surrounded by founders who embody this daily. They are building, testing, refining—and often doing so before the world catches up.

If you’re in a season where your vision isn’t fully understood yet, keep going. That tension is often a sign that you’re creating something truly new. We're here to keep you motivated, moving, and growing!