The Leland C. and Mary M. Pillsbury Institute for Hospitality Entrepreneurship engages leading industry experts and faculty to educate students and provide them with experiential opportunities to learn all aspects of entrepreneurship. To support these critical goals, the Pillsbury Institute offers students, entrepreneurs, and faculty an expanding range of courses, programs, and activities focused on advancing students’ entrepreneurship knowledge and mastery.



Directors' Welcome

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As we reflect on the past year, I am incredibly proud of the forward momentum the Pillsbury Institute for Hospitality Entrepreneurship has made. Our progress is all because of the community—students, faculty, alumni, and industry partners—that continues to strengthen our mission and our impact. Read More


Engagement

Meet and Repeat [PIHE]

At all stages of ideation, the Pillsbury Institute offers students, entrepreneurs, and faculty a broad range of courses, programs, and activities in which to engage. Learn More


Corporate Relations

Giving Opportunities

Support an academic entrepreneurial program or finance a space where students can brainstorm and collaborate on business ideas and ventures.

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Members

Become a member and help the Pillsbury Institute provide professional expertise for student entrepreneurs.

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Pillsbury Institute for Hospitality Entrepreneurship News

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February 24, 2026

Entrepreneur in Residence Spotlight: Meli James ’00

Pillsbury Institute’s longest-serving Entrepreneur in Residence creates resources and opportunities to support Hawaii’s next generation of entrepreneurs

Tom posing with a group of students after a coffee chat while serving as an Entrepreneur in Residence
February 20, 2026

‘Buy now, pay later’ model extends to travel

Pillsbury Institute Advisory Board member shares his company’s origin story: making travel more accessible with payments over time

Jason Spillerman judging the 2025 Hospitality Pitch Deck Competition.
February 11, 2026

Entrepreneur in Residence Spotlight: Jason Spillerman ’92, P ’25

Real estate consultant and entrepreneur Jason Spillerman shares lessons from three decades of building and investing in businesses


PIHE Events

March 13 - March 15, 2026

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Event
Location
189 Statler Hall

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Event
Location
189 Statler Hall

Thursday, April 16, 2026

Event
Location
189 Statler Hall

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Event
Location
189 Statler Hall
Event
Location
189 Statler Hall

Monday, June 1, 2026

Event
Location
PIHE - Spring Advisory Board Meeting 8:00am - 11:59pm EDT -04:00