Smith Family Business Initiative at Cornell
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 provides professionals with the skills to navigate the complexities of family business. Created by both practitioners and academics, this program equips professionals with new tools and strategies to lead a thriving family business.
Family Business Mentorscape
SFBI has created a mentors’ platform with the goal of connecting our Cornell students and recent alumni with the vast expertise within our network. This is an outgrowth of our popular Sam Seltzer ’48 Mentors Forum and provides year-round access to our mentors.
Peer leadership forums
Forums combine the expertise of our Cornell Family Business Fellows and access to Cornell faculty and our extensive SFBI global network. Forums are carefully curated and are unique to its constituent members. Areas of growth and exploration are driven by the members.
Upcoming events
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October 23, 2026 at 8:00am
2026 Families in Business Conference
After a one-year hiatus, we’re excited to welcome back the Families in Business Conference this fall! The 11th annual conference…
October 24, 2026 at 8:00am
NEXGENS Conference
On Saturday, October 24, we are pleased to host the second NEXGENS Conference. Inspired by the Family Business Alliance, NEXGENS…
November 10, 2026 at 9:00am
Cornell Family Business Tour for Alumni & Friends
In Italy, the role of family in business cannot be mistaken. Culinary tradition, artisan skills, and operational knowledge are passed…
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.
Further readings
Take a look at news, recaps, and highlights on our Family Business Blog.