The Smith Family Business Initiative 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 Family Business Mentorscape
The SFBI has created a mentors’ platform with the goal of connecting our Cornell students and recent alumni with the vast expertise within the SFBI network. This is an outgrowth of our popular Sam Seltzer ’48 Mentors Forum and provides year-round access to our slate of mentors.
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
February 13 - February 14, 2026
Event
Location
Verizon Center, Cornell Tech Campus
Featured News and Stories
August 5, 2025
Diverse Expertise Drives Vertical Integration at Family Business
Innovation at Joe Jurgielewicz & Son—one of the largest duck farms in America—stems from an unusual combination of hospitality and veterinary skills.
July 31, 2025
How One Student is Redefining His Role in His Family’s Businesses
The Smith Family Business Initiative has helped a dual-degree student discern the best ways he can contribute to his family businesses.
May 27, 2025
A Journey Through Italy: Lessons and Landscapes
MBA student Olivia Johnson shares her experience in and insights from the 2025 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.