Skip to main content

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 $10,000 in cash and grants 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?

      Some of the top photos from Central Michigan University homecoming 2024 as captured by University Communications.

      A Dance and Theatre student waves while walking in the homecoming parade.
      RSOs, leaders, alumni and others walk in the annual homecoming parade.
      President Bob Davies wears a life vest and floats in a cardboard boat in Rose Pond.
      The annual cardboard boat race on Rose Pond saw a first time competitor in President Davies.
      A man in a purple shirt shows off the inside of his large meat smoker.
      Fans, grills and meat smokers were fired up at the tailgate.
      Three CMU students strike model poses for the camera while holding a large Action C sign.
      CMU fans strike a pose during the homecoming tailgate.
      The CMU cheer team poses on the football field while holding a large Action C sign.
      The CMU Cheer Team poses for a group photo on the field ahead of CMU's homecoming game against Ohio.
      CMU students raise their arms and cheer from the stands inside Kelly/Shorts Stadium.
      CMU football fans had plenty to cheer about in a furious second half comeback by the CMU Chippewas. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough as Ohio came away with the 27-25 win.

      Source: Aaron Mills

      Media Contact: Aaron Mills
      return to top of page