The Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan: The Power of Ideas

Created within the University of Michigan’s College of Engineering, the Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE) empowers both entrepreneurial spirit and the kind of inventions that change lives, grow the economy, and drive innovation. Among the many benefits of CFE are opportunities for students to consult with alumni in the start-up world, receive grants that allow them to pursue their ideas and concepts, and connect with the greater Michigan entrepreneurial network. In only four academic years, attendance in the entrepreneurship program managed by CFE has leapt from 14 students to 216, and nearly 100 companies have been founded within the program during that time.

The Advisory Board at CFE lends support by providing guidance, strategic advice, and tactical oversight for all of the Center’s activities. By enabling connections for the Center and supporting its fundraising efforts, the Board assures that CFE will give power to ideas for a long time to come.

About the Author: The co-founder and Managing Director of Gabriel Venture Partners, Rick Bolander holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Michigan. Today, he continues to maintain ties with the school as a member of the Advisory Board of the CFE.