Curricula will integrate undergraduate and graduate education in business, engineering, and the sciences with the research and other entrepreneurial activities at the University. Results of applied research, combining cutting-edge technology and the art of entrepreneurship, will provide industry and MTU students with a competitive edge in the global marketplace. The Center will be a catalyst in the conversion of technology into economic value to businesses in Michigan and throughout the nation. Similar centers have been developed in several universities during last 20 years. Most of them are focused on entrepreneurship education with strong links to the business community.
Business start-up projects are the most common subject of student and faculty research.
Typical programs are centered on the business plan development for new projects and start-ups. In many schools the business plan competitions are organized annually, in which student teams are participating with a jury involving business partners and school alumni. There are a few national and international business plan competitions run annually. Given our current resource base, it is likely CenTILE will focus on technological entrepreneurship and key corresponding programs in education and research.