Innovate 1858
Innovate 1858 is all about innovation and creativity. Housed on the first floor of the Student Innovation Center, Innovate 1858 is best described as part lifestyle boutique, part museum shop. The goal of the store is to spur students in their creative endeavors through hands-on retail experience and entrepreneurial innovation.
Numerous products designed or created by Iowa State University students are up for sale. The student-operated retail store features the new tartan plaid — designed by an alumna of the apparel, merchandising, and design program — in products such as scarves, neck-ties, mugs, and t-shirts. While the products will vary depending on students’ current endeavors, visitors may find student-made jewelry or clothing to candles and flower pots.
Students are encouraged to pitch their business ideas and products for opportunities to work with Innovate 1858 to showcase their products in the retail store. For instance, on sale now are handwritten and customized planners by Linda Tong Planners, a CyStarters startup business led by event management senior and entrepreneur, Linda Tong.
Location: 1858 Student Innovation Center, 538 Bissell Road, Ames, Iowa 50011
Parking: Metered visitor parking available in lot 21, next to the Armory
Can’t shop local?
Innovate 1858 has an online store featuring its products for Cyclones who can’t make it to campus to shop. The online store website also features stories on the official ISU tartan and our student makers.