EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University will host the 2024 Sesi Midwest Entrepreneurship Conference and Skandalaris Business Plan Competition on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 9 a.m. in McKenny’s Ballroom, 878 W Cross St. in Ypsilanti. This free, half-day event celebrates and fosters entrepreneurial spirit in high school and college students, teachers, and community members from across the Midwest, as well as an opportunity to pitch business ideas to earn cash prizes.

"Entrepreneurship and the opportunity to celebrate young entrepreneurs is a vital force for positive change in our communities," said Sanjib Chowdhury, faculty director for the Center for Entrepreneurship at EMU. "The Sesi Midwest Entrepreneurship Conference is a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to connect with inspiring leaders, learn valuable skills, and compete for prizes to help them launch their dreams."

The conference features special guest speakers Sean Gray and Bhushan Kulkarni, renowned entrepreneurs and thought leaders. Attendees will also have access to a panel discussion featuring successful business owners Achsha Jones, Marc Alexander, Chris Powers, and Vanessa Lane, who will share their insights and experiences.

The conference’s focal point is the Skandalaris Business Plan Competition, where high school and college students compete for cash prizes of up to $1,000 and the coveted "Best Presentation" award. Three finalists from each category will present their business plans to a panel of judges, showcasing their entrepreneurial potential.

"Building a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem starts with supporting young people with innovative ideas," said Bob Skandalaris, a donor who established the Business Plan Competition in 2009. "This competition gives students the platform to refine their skills and gain valuable feedback from experienced professionals."

The conference is free to attend, but registration is required. Students, teachers, and community members are encouraged to register on the webpage.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.