At Cozad Asset Management, giving back—through financial contributions and sharing expertise – is part of the lifeblood of our organization. As individuals, many of our staff members serve charitable organizations in our community by volunteering their time as board members. As a company, Cozad financially supports many charitable organizations in our community. Further, Cozad supports local innovation and entrepreneurship through two annual events named in honor of Cozad’s late founder, V. Dale Cozad.
Innovators
Cozad supports local innovation through the Cozad New Venture Challenge with the University of Illinois. Each year, the Cozad New Venture Challenge gives hundreds of University of Illinois students an opportunity to transform ideas into impact with mentoring, funding, and skill development. The Challenge involves a Demo Day on the University of Illinois campus and a Finals Event in Chicago where winners are awarded funding and in-kind prizes of up to $500,000.
Entrepreneurs
Cozad supports local entrepreneurship through the V. Dale Cozad Entrepreneur of the Year Program with Parkland College. Each year, the Parkland College Foundation awards an individual who demonstrates the best traits of entrepreneurship including being a leader, a self-starter and a risk-taker, along with perseverance, discipline, confidence, passion, and a strong work ethic. The program also provides scholarships to students demonstrating potential for growth as future managers, leaders, and innovators. The program is committed to developing strong, educated leaders for today’s workforce and creating a more attractive community for future employers.
