Learn - Small Business Institute - CSU Channel Islands

Our students are not just learners—they are researchers, innovators, and problem-solvers. Whether collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge projects, conducting market research for local businesses, learning about the B Corp certification, or exploring the latest trends in social enterprises, they gain hands-on experience that sets them apart in the business world.

Entrepreneurship Emphasis – coming Fall 2026!

Turn your ideas into action with the new Entrepreneurship Emphasis. Designed for students who want to develop an entrepreneurial mindset, launch their own ventures, drive innovation within organizations, or create solutions to real-world challenges, the program emphasizes academic rigor and hands-on experiential learning. Students complete 15 units of specialized entrepreneurship coursework focused on opportunity recognition, marketing research, business model/planning, new product development, innovation, and venture creation.

Beyond the classroom, students work closely with the Entrepreneurship & Small Business Institute (ESBI) to access startup internships, mentorship opportunities, and potential funding resources to help bring their ideas to life. Entrepreneurship Emphasis students are also encouraged to participate in ESBI-sponsored workshops, speaker series, startup competitions, and networking events. Top student ventures may have the opportunity to represent CSU Channel Islands at prestigious off-campus competitions and showcases, including the New Venture Fair at California Lutheran University, the CSU Sunstone Startup Launch Competition, and other regional entrepreneurship events.

Our approach to entrepreneurship is form-agnostic. We believe the organizational form should align with the venture's mission and goals. As a result, students interested in creating social impact are encouraged to explore both for-profit and nonprofit models as viable pathways for their ideas. ESBI is proud to be a founding member of B Academics, a global network dedicated to advancing business as a force for good. Through this partnership, students have opportunities to participate in initiatives such as the annual B Corp Case Competition and the summer B Impact Team Program, which brings together students from universities around the world to support companies pursuing B Corp certification and impact-driven business practices.

Whether your goal is to launch a startup, build a nonprofit organization, join an innovative company, or create positive change in your community, the Entrepreneurship Emphasis provides the skills, connections, and experiences to help you succeed.

Dolphin LaunchpOd Pathway provides 1: 1 mentorship to students who have a business/nonprofit idea and the motivation to explore it and move it forward. This program is open to all majors, and no previous business knowledge is required. We are organizationally form-agnostic and have helped students with both for-profit and nonprofit ideas.

Students drive the timeline, so we have students who have moved from idea to launch in less than two months and others who have taken longer. Students who participate in this program will also be invited to represent CI in regional, state, and national entrepreneurial competitions.

We also help students connect with the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, as well as inspiring and dedicated mentors in the county. You will not be alone!