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Support student entrepreneurs
The next great idea might start with a conversation.
Students participating in the Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship (IBIE) gain more than funding opportunities and competition experience. They gain access to mentors, industry expertise, professional networks and people willing to share what they've learned.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, alumnus, business leader or community supporter, there are many ways to help students explore ideas, build confidence and move opportunities forward.
How you can make an impact
Mentor students
Share your experience, provide feedback and help students navigate challenges as they develop ideas and ventures.
Judge competitions
Support programs like the New Venture Challenge by evaluating student ideas and providing valuable feedback that helps participants strengthen their ventures.
Share your expertise
Participate in workshops, panels and other learning experiences that connect students with real-world perspectives and professional insight.
Support entrepreneurship programs
Financial contributions help create opportunities for student ventures, mentoring programs, competitions and hands-on learning experiences.
Why it matters
Students often remember the conversations, advice and encouragement they receive long after a competition ends.
We would not be where we are today without the mentors, advisors and everyone that sat down and talked to us and was willing to take a meeting.
Entrepreneurship thrives when experienced professionals are willing to share their knowledge and invest in the next generation.
Whether you're helping a student refine a business idea, introducing them to a professional connection or encouraging them to take the next step, your involvement can have a lasting impact.
Frequently asked questions
Who can get involved?
We welcome entrepreneurs, alumni, business leaders, community members and professionals who are interested in supporting student innovation and entrepreneurship.
You don't need to be a Central Michigan University graduate or business owner to make an impact. If you're willing to share your experience, insights or encouragement, there may be an opportunity for you to get involved.
What does mentoring look like?
Mentoring can take many forms. Some mentors meet one-on-one with students to discuss business ideas, while others provide feedback on presentations, answer industry-specific questions or help students think through challenges and opportunities.
The goal isn't to have all the answers. It's to help students learn, grow and gain confidence as they move their ideas forward.
How much time does volunteering require?
The time commitment varies depending on the opportunity.
Some volunteers participate as judges or speakers during a single event. Others choose to engage with students throughout the year as mentors or advisors.
We'll work with you to find opportunities that match your interests and availability.
Do I need entrepreneurship experience?
No.
While many volunteers have experience starting or growing businesses, students also benefit from professionals with expertise in marketing, finance, operations, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, nonprofit leadership and many other fields.
Students gain valuable insight from a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
Can I support students if I don't live near campus?
Yes.
Many conversations, mentoring sessions and planning meetings can take place virtually, making it possible for alumni and professionals to stay involved regardless of location.
Can I work directly with student entrepreneurs?
Yes. Depending on your interests and availability, there may be opportunities to mentor students, provide feedback on venture ideas, participate in entrepreneurship programming or support teams preparing for competitions.
What kinds of students participate in IBIE programs?
Students from every major participate in entrepreneurship programs and competitions.
Some are interested in launching businesses, while others are exploring nonprofit ideas, social impact projects, products, services or innovative solutions related to their fields of study.
How can I become a judge or speaker?
We're always looking for professionals who are willing to share their expertise and provide constructive feedback to students.
Complete the volunteer interest form and a member of the IBIE team will follow up with information about upcoming opportunities.
How are donations used?
Gifts to the IBIE Special Projects Fund support entrepreneurship programs, mentoring opportunities, student venture development, competitions and other hands-on learning experiences.
These investments help students explore ideas, gain experience and develop the skills needed to move opportunities forward.
How do I get started?
The easiest way to get involved is to complete the mentor and volunteer interest form or contact the IBIE team directly.
We'll help connect you with opportunities that fit your interests, expertise and availability.
Support student entrepreneurs
Many student ventures move forward because alumni, business leaders and community supporters choose to invest in the next generation. Whether you're interested in mentoring students, volunteering at events or making a financial contribution, your support helps create opportunities for students to explore ideas, develop skills and gain real-world experience.
Gifts to the IBIE Special Projects Fund help support entrepreneurship programming, student venture development and hands-on learning opportunities that empower students to turn ideas into action.
