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.
Smith Family Business Initiative 2025 Annual Report
Explore the 10th anniversary year of the Smith Family Business Initiative, capturing our efforts through Outreach, Inreach and Research.
Outreach
Our ability to grow the global network of family business students, alumni, and business owners.
Inreach
Our ability to connect and educate our students.
Research
Our ability to create and disseminate new knowledge in the family business space.
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
Coffee Chat with Kevin Leichter ’97 and Kim Hehir ’94
Cornell Case Competition for Family Ownership - Cornell Team Selection Application 2025
Family Office 101 With Adrian Leon, CFA
Cornell Case Competition for Family Ownership Spring 2026
2026 Sam Seltzer ’48 Mentors Forum
Featured News and Stories
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.
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.
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.