CAU Leads Regional Center For Black Entrepreneurship With PNC Grant
Empowering HBCUs: The Regional Center for Entrepreneurship Initiative
In a heartening and inspiring development, Clark Atlanta University (CAU) has been chosen as one of four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to lead a Regional Center for Entrepreneurship. This incredible opportunity is made possible by a generous $16.8 million grant from PNC. The national center will be located at Howard University, with CAU leading the South region, encompassing HBCUs in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
A Generous Grant: PNC’s $16.8 Million Investment in Black Entrepreneurship
The Regional Center for Entrepreneurship aims to engage the black business community in growing their enterprises, thereby positively impacting the community and increasing employment and wealth for the black community. This initiative is a testament to the unwavering dedication of HBCUs like CAU to empower and uplift their communities through education, research, and entrepreneurship.
Clark Atlanta University: Leading the South Region with Passion and Creativity
CAU President, Dr. George T. French, Jr., expressed his pride in the university’s entrepreneurial legacy, which dates back to the intellectual genealogy of W. E. B. Du Bois. He emphasized that CAU and many other HBCUs are passionately committed to enhancing black entrepreneurship within their communities.
Fostering Innovation: The Role of CAU’s School of Business Administration and CIED
The CAU School of Business Administration (CAUSBA) will oversee the Regional Center, complementing the ongoing activities in the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurial Development (CIED). CIED offers a wide range of resources, including courses, workshops, mentoring, 3D printing, prototyping, and business pitch competitions, to foster innovation and creativity among students.
Expanding Opportunities: The Impact of the Regional Center on Scholars and the Black Business Community
Dean Silvanus Udoka of the School of Business Administration highlighted the importance of the Regional Center for Entrepreneurship in broadening the platform for scholars to accelerate discovery and launch their entrepreneurial endeavors and professional careers.
Entrepreneur-In-Residence Program: Connecting Experienced Entrepreneurs with Students and Faculty
CAU’s School of Business also features an Entrepreneur-In-Residence program, connecting experienced entrepreneurs with students and faculty to provide mentorship, guidance, and valuable connections.
Dr. French expressed gratitude to PNC for their generous support, which will enable CAU to enhance its entrepreneurial initiatives and promote collaboration among HBCUs like Howard University and other regional partners.
This exciting development is a shining example of the power of collaboration and investment in education, innovation, and entrepreneurship to create lasting, positive change in the black community.