Since opening its doors in 1973, the Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE) at Methodist University has played a key role in providing an educational and networking forum for the entire region of Eastern North Carolina. It was established to nurture the spirit of entrepreneurship and promote free enterprise in the Cape Fear Region. Founded and directed by Dr. Sid Gautam (right), CFE has served the business community for over a quarter century and has recognized more than 200 outstanding entrepreneurs.

CFE sponsors a number of programs. Each year there are two symposiums: In the spring, there is the Stock Market Symposium, and in the fall, the Economic Outlook Symposium. Investing in the young people of the community is a very important part of the work of CFE, with the summer program Boot Camp for Budding Entrepreneurs, and the Quantum Leap Initiative, which continues the enrichment of the boot camps. There are other programs: the Legacy Lunch, to honor business individuals, and the Expanding the Global Mindset luncheon, which addresses global trends. The annual Thank You Series banquets spotlight outstanding individuals and businesses. CFE has a program for instructing teachers about business called Teachers Institute for Entrepreneurship. For business people interested in business succession, there is a program Business Succession Forum Network (BSFN) and an exclusive group called “BSFN 95” whose membership is open to a maximum of 95 successful business owners and entrepreneurs. The Global Outreach Program which started in September 2007 has organized a business delegation to India. The goal of the trip is to provide insights regarding the cross-border opportunities being created for American companies, entrepreneurs and investors.

Our Mission

To assist entrepreneurs in converting dreams into realities and exploring new frontiers of opportunity, while promoting, creating, and preserving wealth.

Center for Entrepreneurship