New About KS WELI - Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute at The University of Texas at Austin

The KS WELI Story

The Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute (KS WELI) began as a napkin idea between Kendra Scott and former UT Austin President Jay Hartzell in 2019, a shared vision to create more opportunities for women to see themselves as founders and leaders.

Kendra’s belief that when women lead, the world becomes more balanced, collaborative, and compassionate shaped the foundation of the Institute. Backed by her $13.25 million philanthropic endowment, KS WELI was established as a cross-campus collaboration between the College of Fine Arts, McCombs School of Business, the College of Natural Sciences, and The LaunchPad in Undergraduate Studies.

When the pandemic hit, the Institute’s first programs went virtual and offered workshops, speaker series, and our inaugural online summit to keep students inspired and connected during an unpredictable time. By Fall 2021, KS WELI opened its doors on campus, welcoming a new generation of Longhorns ready to build, lead, and launch.

KS WELI TODAY

Today, KS WELI has grown into a full ecosystem of programs and opportunities that empower every student, regardless of major or experience, to find their path in entrepreneurship and leadership.

For Entrepreneurs

Spark Founders provides hands-on workshops, mentorship, and funding resources to help students bring their ventures to life.

For Intrapreneurs

KS WELI Student Board, our sponsored student organization, cultivates intrapreneurship, confidence, and connection through community-driven initiatives.

For everyone

KS WELI offers signature events and courses, including the Women in Entrepreneurship Specialization, that connect creativity, business, and impact across the Forty Acres.