Program Overview
Big ideas require big plans.
Pursue your passion and turn thoughts into action with the support of the Innovation & Entrepreneurship program. Learn the ins and outs of starting a business and learn from entrepreneurs in many fields. Combine the powerful hands-on lessons you learn with focused opportunities in nonprofit management, arts entrepreneurship, and more. You’ll also get real-world opportunities to shine your light.
Program Highlights
Launch Your Ideas
Bring your best idea to Launch LU, pitch it to business leaders, investors, and alumni, and compete for seed funding to help turn your plans into action. Learn more about Launch LU & The Pitch.
Create Change Through Social Entrepreneurship
Gain hands-on experience in nonprofit outreach and social entrepreneurship through KidsGive, Lawrence’s model nonprofit supporting global education in Sierra Leone.
Learn from Entrepreneurs
Hear directly from entrepreneurs who share their experiences, career paths, and insights on building an entrepreneurial life.
Turn Creativity into Opportunity
Explore the business side of theater and music through programs like Startup Theatre and Entrepreneurial Musician, where creative talent meets entrepreneurial thinking. Learn more about Start-Up Theater Projects.
Spotlight
Lawrentian Spotlight
Student Perspective
“I’m grateful to Lawrence University for their collaboration with one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, Harvard Business School. It’s incredible to see how this partnership opens doors for students like me to gain transformative experiences.”
Cristian Tallarico ‘26 Economics, Data Science (Harvard CORe program) Muri, Aargau, Switzerland
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
Engage deeply and collaboratively with professors who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
Chair(s)
Claudena Skran (she/her)
Edwin & Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science and Professor of Government
Claudena Skran is Director of the Business & Entrepreneurship program and Professor of Government and the Edwin and Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science.As a the Director of…
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Michael Clayville (he/him)
Instructor of Music in Entrepreneurial Studies and Social Engagement
michael.clayville@lawrence.edu
I am a musician, educator, and entrepreneur whose work moves between the concert hall, the classroom, and the community. As a performer, I am passionate about drawing audiences deeply into…
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Adam Galambos (he/him)
Dwight and Marjorie Peterson Professor of Innovation and Associate Professor of Economics and Special Assistant to the President
My research experience is in microeconomic theory and game theory, and these are fields that I teach as well. I also enjoy teaching in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship program. I…
View Full Profile Claudena Skran (she/her)
Edwin & Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science and Professor of Government
Claudena Skran is Director of the Business & Entrepreneurship program and Professor of Government and the Edwin and Ruth West Professor of Economics and Social Science.As a the Director of…
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Timothy X. Troy (he/him)
J. Thomas and Julie E. Hurvis Professor of Theatre and Drama and Professor of Theatre Arts
Timothy X. Troy (playwright & stage director) is the Hurvis Professor of Theatre and Drama at Lawrence University. Regular teaching areas include acting, directing, script analysis, and playwrighting. Professor Troy’s…
View Full ProfileLearning Spaces
Lawrence is forming strategic partnerships with community organizations to develop innovative living-learning spaces where students can collaborate with businesses and non-profits for hands-on experiential learning. Explore the Business & Entrepreneurship Center.
Make your mark on Rabbit Gallery by planning and executing a pop-up art gallery featuring student works in a storefront in downtown Appleton. Learn more about the Rabbit Art Gallery.
