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Centers of Excellence

Empowering the Next Generation of Business Leaders

The College of Business at Chico State is home to several Centers for Excellence—dedicated spaces where students turn knowledge into action, build real-world experience, and launch careers with confidence. Whether you're diving into finance, launching a startup, or exploring the latest tech, our centers offer hands-on learning that sets you apart.

Student work to launch new products in the Center for Entrepreneurship

Center for Entrepreneurship

Where Big Ideas Begin

The Center for Entrepreneurship is more than a workspace—it’s a launchpad. Whether you have a business idea, a passion project, or just want to learn how to think like an entrepreneur, this is your place to explore, connect, and create.

We bring together students, alumni, and community partners to build a vibrant network of support, mentorship, and opportunity. You don’t need to have a business plan—just curiosity and drive.

Activities at the Center include:

  • Experiential Learning Documentary
    See what innovation looks like in action through a student-led documentary highlighting award-winning projects.
  • Executive Speaker Series
    Learn directly from successful business leaders in student-moderated panels featuring our Business Advisory Board.
  • CFE Club Presentations
    Join or learn from active student groups like the Investor Club, CEO Club, and Venture Capital Club.
  • Elevator Pitch Competition
    Test your business idea in a fast-paced pitch event—or serve as a judge and help shape the next big thing.

Alumni and community members welcome. Whether you're starting something new or mentoring the next generation, we’re building something great—together.

Contact Info
Eva Shepherd-Nicoll, Director
elshepherd-nicoll@csuchico.edu
530-898-4894
Glenn Hall, Room 221

Student from students sit in the audience or present in front of a room

Center for Excellence in Finance

Your Future in Finance Starts Here

From managing real money to helping others with theirs, this center is a hub for students who want to excel in the financial world. You'll gain professional experience, build industry-ready skills, and connect with mentors—right here on campus.

  • Chico Creek Capital – Student Managed Fund
    Manage part of Chico State’s endowment—yes, really. Students in this program take charge of a $30,000 investment fund, researching stocks, pitching decisions, and tracking performance.
    Career paths: Investment management, asset analysis, Wall Street
  • Financial Wellness Clinic
    Make a difference while gaining real client experience. Help fellow students and community members with budgeting, credit, and financial planning as a student paraplanner.
    Career paths: Financial planning, financial coaching
  • FinTech Lab
    Explore the cutting edge of finance and technology. With access to Bloomberg Terminals and tools like Tableau and Visual Studio, you’ll build investment strategies and sharpen your coding skills.
    Career paths: Financial tech, data analysis, coding for finance

Contact Info
Jaycob Arbogast, Director
jarbogast2@csuchico.edu
530-898-5920

Buildings

  • Outside view of Glenn Hall.

    Glenn Hall

    Named after Glenn County, Glenn Hall is the home for most courses taught by the College of Business. The building features a variety of spaces, including departmental offices, classrooms, computer labs, and conference rooms. Designed by the architectural firm Rockwise and Watson, it spans over 41,000 square feet.

  • Outside view of the entrance of Tehama Hall.

    Tehama Hall

    The location of College of Business Dean's Office and several other departments. The brick exterior building predominantly contains classrooms but also includes departmental chair offices for Business Administration.