This PC World article examines a very interesting model for spurring student innovation and entrepreneurship.

Canadian University Puts IT Whiz Kids in "Dormcubator"

The University of Waterloo is turning one of its residence halls into a think tank, where students can collaborate on Web, modible, and other apps 

I could imagine it woorking at a number of RI's schools. Or better yet in Providence, a cross-school dormcubator