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).
Cornell Giving Day - March 14, 2024
We are counting on YOU to unlock infinite possibilities for the Smith Family Business Initiative. Your gift on Giving Day will provide opportunities for students to attend conferences, roundtables, and treks at little or no cost, extend our engagement with recent alumni near and far, and elevate Cornell University as the university of choice for global family business education. Join us to make a difference that will have an immediate and lasting impact!
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.
Events
Featured News and Stories
B-School Teams Focus on Flickr in Cornell 2024 Case Competition for Family Ownership
Olin Business School team wins the Case Competition for Family Ownership, the only such contest where students interact with a family business.
Cornell’s 2023 Families in Business Conference Ignites Thought Leadership
Clarence Rivette, MBA ’25, provides an overview and shares personal takeaways about the 9th Annual Families in Business Conference held in Ithaca.
Seeing a Bright Future for Hemp in New York State
Hailee Greene, MBA ’24, wants to build the first industrial hemp processing facility in the Northeast.
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.