Exploring the Spectrum of Entrepreneurship at Central Michigan University
When most people hear the word "entrepreneur," they often envision a bold founder launching a startup from scratch. While this image is not incorrect, it is only part of a much broader narrative. At Central Michigan University (CMU), entrepreneurship faculty are dedicated to helping students understand the full spectrum of entrepreneurial paths. This includes not only starting a new business but also taking over a family company, innovating within a corporation, or launching mission-driven ventures that create social impact.
The Essence of Entrepreneurship: A Mindset and a Major
Entrepreneurship is one of the fastest-growing disciplines in business education, yet it remains widely misunderstood. Faculty at CMU emphasize that entrepreneurship is more about mindset than job title.
“Entrepreneurship is more than starting a business—it’s a mindset fueled by curiosity and creativity,” explains Spenser Robinson, chair of the entrepreneurship department. “It equips you to see opportunity where others see obstacles.”
Students in the entrepreneurship program learn to identify market needs, design innovative solutions, and adapt to dynamic environments. Whether promoting a dance or music brand, launching a fashion label, or expanding a family business, the tools provided by the program empower students to define and pursue their own version of success.
“Our students are artists, musicians, leaders, content creators, social change agents, business founders, and STEM innovators,” says faculty member John Gustincic. This diversity fosters an environment where students learn by doing and from one another, turning ideas into actionable plans.
Six Entrepreneurial Pathways: Beyond Startups
At CMU, students explore a variety of entrepreneurial options. Julie Messing, director of CMU’s Isabella Bank Institute for Entrepreneurship, introduces six distinct pathways in her introductory course:
Startup Founder: Launching something from the ground up.
Family Business Successor: Continuing or evolving an existing business.
Franchise Owner: Taking on a proven model with room for personal innovation.
Business Acquirer: Buying an existing company and leading it forward.
Social Entrepreneur: Creating mission-driven ventures that address social needs.
Corporate Innovator: Driving change and product development within large organizations.
“Startups are a big part of what we do,” Messing notes. “But not every student wants to start something from scratch—and that’s okay. These pathways allow them to find the version of entrepreneurship that fits their goals and risk tolerance.”
Trade Tools and Nontraditional Paths
Not all entrepreneurial journeys begin with a tech startup. Many students pursue business ownership in trades and applied fields. Gustincic highlights that students interested in construction or trade-based businesses often realize they need to approach their trade innovatively to stay competitive.
The program also supports students who enter without a clear business idea, helping them develop their interests into actionable plans. “Most of our students come in with a general interest in owning a business someday, but without a specific idea in mind,” says Lauren Zettel, another faculty member. “We help them explore their interests and identify meaningful consumer problems they’re passionate about solving.”
A Curriculum Built for the Real World
The entrepreneurship curriculum at CMU blends theory with hands-on application. Faculty emphasize real-world relevance, adaptability, and a focus on meaningful problem-solving.
“The curriculum is experiential in nature,” says Howard Haines, another faculty member. “You learn through doing and test out theoretical knowledge.”
Students are equipped with skills to create value by organizing sustainable economic systems, envisioning and leading in uncertain conditions, and acquiring the resources needed to launch and manage new products and services. This real-world grounding extends to how students think about business succession, especially as baby boomers retire and transition their businesses.
Mentorship and Connection: Building a Network
Entrepreneurship at CMU is also about connection. Students regularly engage with alumni and professionals, including those just a few years ahead in their careers.
“We bring in a plethora of entrepreneurs for them to meet and learn from,” Messing explains. “They see themselves in these speakers—and realize what’s possible.”
Access to lived experiences helps students build confidence, gain perspective, and understand the practical realities of the paths they’re considering. Mentorship, often informal, plays a crucial role in students’ success.
Ready to Explore Your Own Path?
Whether you’re interested in building a business or cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset, CMU’s entrepreneurship program can help you launch what’s next. The program goes beyond the classroom, offering opportunities to connect with mentors, compete in events like Make-A-Pitch and the New Venture Challenge, and engage with real-world entrepreneurs through hands-on experiences and travel opportunities.
To learn more about the diverse pathways in entrepreneurship at CMU, visit CMU Entrepreneurship.
In conclusion, entrepreneurship at Central Michigan University is not just about starting a business; it’s about fostering a mindset that embraces innovation, creativity, and problem-solving across various fields and industries. Whether you aspire to be a startup founder or a corporate innovator, CMU provides the tools and support to help you succeed.
