Institute Centers

Agricultural Entrepreneurship

As a farmer or agricultural producer, you dedicate tremendous time and care to the crops or animals you raise. We will help you nurture your business with the same attention and experience-driven knowledge you bring to your industry, creating a thriving, sustainable enterprise worthy of the quality products you deliver.

Every farm is a business, yet traditional business support programs often overlook the issues most important to farm-based enterprises and agricultural producers. Our Agricultural Entrepreneurship Program has been carefully crafted to meet the  challenges and take advantage of the opportunities of agricultural businesses.

Learn more about our Agricultural Entrepreneurship program »

Center for Women in Business

The Institute's Women’s business programs are results-driven advisory programs that support the profitable growth of established women-owned businesses, including:

• PowerLink Advisory Board
• PowerLink WBE Super Panel
• PowerBuild

Learn more about our Center for Women in Business »

Entrepreneurial Fellows Program

Our long standing Entrepreneurial Fellows program assists entrepreneurs manage rapid growth, develop strategic plans for sustained success, network with successful entrepreneurial peers, propel their businesses to the next level and match business founders and leaders with established entrepreneurial mentors.

As a leader pf a high-growth enterprise, your time is your most valuable commodity. Our 12 month Entrepreneurial Fellows Program will help you address the challenges of a rapidly growing business, preparing you for continued success and long-term sustainability with a program that fits your busy schedule.

Learn more about our Entrepreneurial Fellows »

Entrepreneurial Mindset Program

"An educational and consulting program specifically for ex-offenders"

Today, the entrepreneurial spirit drives the success of all types of companies. Both small and large companies are looking for enterprising employees – those who focus on taking what is, and making it better. These enterprising individuals learn what motivates people, are curious about business functions, and take charge of their future. The University of Pittsburgh Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence has developed programs that develop enterprising individuals who will build the economy of the future…one idea, one business at a time.

Learn more about our Entrepreneurial Mindset Program >>

PantherlabWorks

PantherlabWorks engages in strategic business consulting for start-up entrepreneurs as well as existing companies in the region, with a focus on energy, sustainability, and innovative technologies.  Beyond consulting, value-added services include capital formation, innovation assessment, market research, and regional development initiatives. 

Learn more about PantherlabWorks »

Family Enterprise Center

Family businesses are the foundation of Western Pennsylvania’s diverse and growing business community. We believe the success of our region depends upon the continued prosperity and retention of family ownership of family and closely-held firms.

Founded by Ann Dugan an experienced family business advisor, the Family Enterprise Center understands the critical issues most important to families in business. Whether you are planning a leadership transition, preparing family members for ownership, or navigating the challenges and opportunities that are unique to family business, we can help. 

To learn more about our Family Enterprise Center, contact us or view our recommended list of books and website resources.

Small Business Development Center

The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of Pittsburgh offers consulting services and educational programs to fuel the establishment and growth of small businesses in Western Pennsylvania. Whether you are considering starting a business for the first time or considering ways to grow your established business, we will connect you with the resources and tools necessary to help your small business grow and prosper. 

Learn more about the Small Business Development Center at the University of Pittsburgh » 

Student Entrepreneurship

The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence in conjunction with the Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business offers resources, classes and other opportunities to help you turn your academic interests into a successful career. 

Learn more about Student Entrepreneurship at the University of Pittsburgh »

Urban Power to Prosper℠

A Unique Development Program for Urban Area Small Businesses

This program, designed specifically for established small business owners located in inner city neighborhoods, will help those enrolled plan, achieve and manage the long-term growth and success of their business by incorporating the award-winning StreetWise Steps™ curriculum.

Learn more about the Urban Power to Prosper program>>

Information Technology Program

Companies like yours have Information Technology systems embedded in many aspects of operations: internal communication, sales processes, inventory control and management, customer relations, risk management...and many more. Are you confident that your current technology platforms and systems are designed to meet your needs and strategic goals? The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence has the expertise to help your company evolve your current technology platforms and strategically incorporate new ones. The results? IT systems that are a source of strength and a competitive advantage for your business today and tomorrow.

Learn more about the Information Technology Program>>