Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise

The Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise program at the University of Alberta offers students a comprehensive education designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and innovative mindset necessary for success in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and family business management. This interdisciplinary program combines business fundamentals with specialized coursework focused on family enterprise, entrepreneurial strategies, and small business management. Students will explore topics such as venture creation, business planning, leadership, succession planning, and strategic growth, all tailored to the unique challenges faced by family-run businesses and startup ventures.

Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical experience, students are encouraged to develop entrepreneurial thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective decision-making skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning components such as project-based assignments, case studies, internships, and opportunities for real-world application. This approach ensures graduates are well-prepared to launch their own startups, manage existing family businesses, or pursue leadership roles in diverse entrepreneurial settings.

Additionally, students benefit from access to a network of industry professionals, mentorship opportunities, and entrepreneurship-focused events hosted by the university. The faculty comprises experienced researchers and practitioners committed to fostering innovation and supporting emerging entrepreneurs. Graduates of the program will be equipped with the strategic insight and entrepreneurial agility needed to navigate market complexities, build sustainable businesses, and foster succession within family enterprises.

The program is suitable for aspiring entrepreneurs, current family business owners, and individuals interested in entrepreneurship development. It provides a strong foundation in business management principles while emphasizing the specific considerations related to family enterprise governance, conflict resolution, and succession planning. Graduates will be prepared to create innovative ventures, sustain family businesses across generations, and contribute meaningfully to economic growth and community development. Upon completion, students earn a specialized credential that recognizes their expertise in entrepreneurial and family enterprise contexts.