Marshall University is proud to announce its selection as the newest ZinnStarter affiliate, joining a prestigious and growing network of universities committed to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. Funded by Ray Zinn — former CEO of Micrel and the longest-serving CEO in Silicon Valley — ZinnStarter equips aspiring student entrepreneurs with seed funding, mentorship and leadership training. As part of this partnership, Marshall has received a $10,000 award to directly support student-led ventures.
This affiliation strengthens the university’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, which includes both a major and minor in entrepreneurship within the Lewis College of Business, as well as the Brad D. Smith Student Incubator, which is delivered through the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (iCenter), the Honors College and the Lewis College of Business.
The ZinnStarter award will help students bring their business ideas to life through micro-grants, pitch events and prototype development, said Ben Eng, interim dean of the Lewis College of Business. In addition to funding, the program pairs students with experienced entrepreneurs and executives who offer guidance on key topics such as servant leadership, building enduring companies and cultivating lasting corporate cultures.
ZinnStarter also provides students with leadership and entrepreneurship training grounded in Ray Zinn’s values and decades of business experience. The program emphasizes the creation of long-lasting, sustainable companies and supports student entrepreneurs in developing strong foundations for long-term success.
“The ZinnStarter award empowers Marshall University’s student entrepreneurs to achieve their dream of launching innovative businesses that drive prosperity across West Virginia and beyond,” Eng said. “A special thank you to our Assistant Professor for Entrepreneurship Olen York for leading this effort to secure this unique opportunity for funding and mentorship for our student entrepreneurs.”
Launched in 2016 at Virginia Tech, ZinnStarter is now offered at several universities across the country, including San Jose State University, Utah Valley University, West Virginia University and Carroll College. Marshall University’s inclusion in this select group reflects its growing leadership in entrepreneurship education and its commitment to empowering student innovators throughout West Virginia and beyond.
Marshall University students interested in participating in the ZinnStarter program can contact Assistant Professor Olen York. iCenter Executive Director Tricia Ball or Associate Professor David Wiley for additional information.
To learn more about ZinnStarter, visit: https://toughthingsfirst.com/zinnstarter/