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.
Celebrating Our 10-Year Anniversary
Today, September 10th, marks the 10-year anniversary of the Smith Family Business Initiative. As we look ahead to the Families in Business Conference on October 9 & 10, we invite you to join us in reflecting on a decade of progress and accomplishments. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our students, alumni, and supporters for their dedication and contributions to our continued success.
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).
2025 Sam Seltzer '48 Mentors Forum
The Sam Seltzer ’48 Mentors Forum is a vast network that connects current Cornell students and recent alumni with scholars, advisors, and family business leaders for one-on-one mentoring and coaching sessions. Students have the exceptional opportunity to select their own agendas and interest areas for exploration during the time spent with their mentors. Cornell Family Business mentors are carefully selected to provide for a diversity of experience and expertise.
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
Friday, March 7, 2025
March 29 - April 5, 2025
Friday, May 23, 2025
Featured News and Stories
From Technology Director to Chief Data Officer: A Q&A with Chaitanya Baddam, MBA ’23
Career Corner: Technology executive Chaitanya Baddam pivoted from insurance platform technology director to chief data officer at an insurtech startup.
Exploring the Family’s Role in Reducing the Racial Gap in Entrepreneurship
PhD Spotlight: Research by Johnson School PhD candidate Qian Wang examines the impact of demographics on entrepreneurship.
The 2024 Families in Business Conference: Making Connections and Learning About Impact
MBA candidate Mike Weaver reflects on his experience at the 2024 Families in Business Conference and with the Smith Family Business Initiative at Cornell.
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.