EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University will participate in the Climate Entrepreneurship Exchange, a free, eight-week virtual exchange program designed to empower students to develop entrepreneurial solutions to climate challenges. 

The exchange program brings together undergraduate students from four Michigan universities and three North African countries. Participants will collaborate in teams to develop climate-focused business concepts, culminating in an investment pitch to program mentors.

"This program offers our students a unique opportunity to engage in global collaboration while addressing critical climate issues by developing entrepreneurial solutions," said Kimberley Barker, a full-time senior lecturer for EMU's College of Business. "By participating in this free program, EMU Undergraduate students will enhance their entrepreneurial skills and contribute to innovative solutions that have the potential to make a significant impact."

EMU students are encouraged to complete the brief application process, joining peers from Michigan State University, Wayne State University, the University of Michigan, and institutions in Egypt, Morocco, and Libya. 

Participants will commit to approximately six hours weekly for eight weeks, with four cohort dates available. Each cohort culminates in a pitch competition. The winning team from each cohort will advance to a final pitch competition. Members of the top two winning teams across the four cohorts will win a weeklong immersion trip in August 2026. Michigan-based winners will travel to Morocco, and North African winners will visit Michigan, fostering a meaningful cultural and educational exchange.

The Climate Entrepreneurship Exchange is implemented by the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan and supported by the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative (JCSVEI), a U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs program administered by the Aspen Institute.

EMU undergraduate students interested in building their entrepreneurial expertise and engaging in global collaboration are encouraged to apply.  The first round of applications is due by Dec.20. All cohorts are available for application at this time. This opportunity is available to students on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

For more information or to apply, visit the Climate Entrepreneurship Exchange webpage.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, EMU is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 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.