The Smith Family Business Initiative at Cornell is dedicated to supporting and strengthening the network of owners, leaders, and alumni that work in, with or for a family business.
Founded in 2014 from a generous gift from John and Dyan Smith, the Smith Family Business Initiative provides education, networking, and new knowledge for family business owners, successors, and students from across the globe.
Connect. Learn. Engage.
eCornell Family Business Leadership Certificate Program
This instructor-led Cornell Certificate Program will provide professionals with the skills to navigate the complexities of family business. Created by both practitioners and academics, this program will equip professionals with new tools and strategies to lead a thriving family business. You will receive the Family Business Leadership Certificate from Cornell University’s SC Johnson College of Business and 40 Professional Development Hours (4 CEUs).
2024 Families in Business Conference
The 2024 Families in Business Conference will bring together students, owners from a diverse range of businesses, and the collective wisdom of leading academics and practitioners. The 10th annual conference will take place in person on October 9-10 at the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island in NYC. Please look forward to a dinner with keynote speaker on Wednesday evening and a full day’s conference on Thursday.
Peer Leadership Forums
The Cornell Peer Leadership Forums combine the expertise of our Cornell Family Business Fellows, access to Cornell faculty, and our extensive Smith Family Business Initiative global network. Forums will be carefully curated and formed. Each forum will be unique to its constituent members, and areas of growth and exploration will be driven by the members.
Upcoming Events
October 9 - October 10, 2024
Friday, October 11, 2024
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
February 14 - February 15, 2025
Featured News and Stories
Practically Improving the World Through Public Policy and Entrepreneurship
PhD Spotlight: Research by Johnson School PhD candidate Grady Raines reveals hidden hurdles and the role of family in promoting female entrepreneurship.
Research at the Crossroads of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Network Theory
PhD Spotlight: Johnson School PhD candidate Andrew Foley talks about his research on family business and entrepreneurship.
From Cheese to Fashion: Exploring the Family Businesses of Italy
EMBA Americas student Brandon Jernigan recounts his experience in the 2024 Family Businesses in Italy Trek.
Family Business: By the Numbers
- 5.5 million family businesses in the U.S.
- 24% family businesses that are led by a female CEO or President.
- 24 years average life span of a family-owned business.
- 77% new business ventures established in the U.S. founded with significant involvement of the family.