At Bucknell University, entrepreneurship is not just a concept taught in a course; it is a mindset that is fostered and encouraged throughout the campus community. The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, set to open in 2024, is a testament to Bucknell’s commitment to nurturing creativity, innovation, and exploration among its students. Made possible by a generous founding gift from an anonymous Bucknell family, the center is poised to become a focal point for entrepreneurial activities at the university.
The vision for the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation is to expand the entrepreneurial ecosystem at Bucknell and advance entrepreneurial mindsets among students from all three of the university’s colleges. The goal is to provide students with the support and guidance they need to turn their creative ideas into tangible products, services, or ventures that can make a significant impact in the real world.
President John Bravman expressed his gratitude to the donors who made the center a reality, emphasizing the university’s commitment to empowering future founders across various fields. The center will build upon Bucknell’s existing entrepreneurial programs, such as BizPitch and the Bucknell Small Business Development Center, to create a synergistic hub that fosters community and collaboration.
The team behind the development of the center includes faculty members from diverse disciplines, all working towards a common goal of providing students with access to entrepreneurship-focused educational opportunities. The strategic plan for the center includes exposure to entrepreneurial concepts, experiential learning activities, networking opportunities, mentorship, and guidance to help students bring their ideas to fruition.
The center’s resources will be open to students and faculty from all disciplines, encouraging the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset across the university. With a long-term vision that includes offering venture funding, mentorship, and business development coaching, the center aims to differentiate Bucknell as a leader in entrepreneurship education.
The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation aligns with Bucknell’s strategic plan for 2025, which aims to position the university for success in the coming decade. By fostering a culture of intellectual aspiration and cultivating academic excellence, the center will play a crucial role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship at Bucknell.
In conclusion, the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Bucknell University represents a significant step towards empowering students to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions. With a focus on creativity, innovation, and experiential learning, the center will provide students with the resources and support they need to turn their ideas into reality. As Bucknell continues to build a distinguished program in entrepreneurship education, the center will serve as a beacon of innovation and collaboration for the entire university community.
