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Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship

We empower entrepreneurial thinkers—whether you’re launching a venture, building a family business, creating social impact, or driving innovation inside an organization. Turn ideas into action.

Start your entrepreneurial journey

At Central Michigan University, the Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship is more than a program—it’s where students from every major turn ideas into real impact. As Michigan’s first Department of Entrepreneurship, we’re a hub for hands-on learning, innovation, and mentorship.

Here, you’ll:

  • Build an entrepreneurial mindset that sets you apart in any career path—launching ventures, shaping social missions, advancing family businesses, or driving innovation inside established companies.
  • Collaborate across disciplines to create projects that matter.
  • Learn from alumni, faculty, and industry leaders who’ve built their own paths.
  • Gain real-world experience through workshops, hackathons, and pitch competitions.
  • Compete in the New Venture Challenge, where students win up to $20,000 to grow their ideas.

Whether you want to start something new or transform what already exists, the Institute is your launchpad.

      Take the next step!

      When you’re ready to get started, stop by Grawn 164 to join the team or visit the Idea Den in Grawn 166—your space to brainstorm, build, and take the next step.

      Questions?

      Spark Sessions: Entrepreneurial Ideation

      Students working with mentors during the Fall 2023 Mentor Meetup event.
      Details:

      Do you have a great idea for a product or service? Looking to start your own business one day?

      Join the Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship and work on finding opportunity, building your existing ideas and connecting with resources to help fuel your entrepreneurial journey.

      Spark session dates and times:

      • Tuesday, September 9 | 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.
      • Tuesday, September 16 | 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.
      • Tuesday, September 23 | 6:15 - 7:30 p.m.

      Location: Grawn Hall 150G

      Drop in and chat! All majors are welcome!

      Date: -
      Time: -
      Location: Please select
      Grawn Hall Room 150G
      Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
      Get directions
      Sponsor: Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship
      Contact: Rachel Trost nvc@cmich.edu 989-774-3515
      Register for this event