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.

A student standing with a faculty member holding big winning checks from the New Venture Challenge 2024.

Workshops & Events

Connect with mentors and faculty who know what it takes to succeed.

Explore events

New Venture Challenge

Pitch your idea, test your skills, and compete for up to $20,000 in prizes.

Learn more

Idea Den

Brainstorm, build prototypes, test ideas, and explore entrepreneurship.

Visit the Den

A group of students including CMU student Jacob Kapusansky at the 2023 University Innovation Fellows conference at Stanford University in California.

IBIE Programs

Apply for programs, fellowships, and mentoring that open doors.

Explore programs

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?

Contact the team

Events

VIEW ALL EVENTS

Pizza with a Professional: Nate Yarhouse

InSciTE Speaker Series

Therapy dogs at the Park Library

VIEW ALL EVENTS

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

At CMU spring commencement, the backs of maroon graduation caps with tassels dangling. On one cap, the words See You In The Stars are written.

At CMU spring commencement, President Bob Davies takes a selfie with students waiting to receive their diplomas.

At CMU spring commencement, a graduate with blonde hair smiles while holding her diploma in one hand.

At CMU spring commencement, a graduate waves and smiles at the crowd.

At CMU spring commencement, President Davies stands on stage swinging a light saber. — President Bob Davies wields a toy light saber during commencement ceremonies on May 4 to play off of Star Wars Day, which is also "May the Fourth."

At CMU spring commencement, a graduate gets a hug from her family members.

At CMU spring commencement, two graduates with blonde hair sit in chairs, smiling at the crowd and raising their arms.

At CMU spring commencement, President Davies receives a teary eyed hug from his daughter, Katie. — President Davies and daughter Katie embrace on stage after Katie received her Master's degree.

Source: Aaron Mills

Media Contact: Aaron Mills