About Paul J. Hooker Center

Vision

To develop and sustain a nationally recognized entrepreneurial ecosystem at Bowling Green State University (BGSU).

Mission

Establish a preeminent center for entrepreneurial leadership that integrates academic, experiential and lifelong learning and that actively contributes to economic vitality in the regional economy.

Opportunities to Launch Business Ventures

E-Week includes the Hatch event, which is similar in format to the television show "Shark Tank" and is touted as a best-in-class practice program where BGSU students knows as "Hatchlings" pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges. To date, more than $800,000 has been invested to support student businesses.

BGSU students, from any major, also have the opportunity to incubate their business ideas. The Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership has expanded its incubation program to assist BSGU students by providing access to capital through funds generously donated by alumni.

Entrepreneurship Academic Curriculum

The Center promotes the entrepreneurship minor offered through the College and has more than 650 students enrolled in the minor each year. Special music entrepreneurship and arts entrepreneurship classes are offered to students. The entrepreneurship program at BGSU is ranked in the top 3 percent of universities in the country.

In addition to college courses, the Center offers high school collaborations and educational opportunities to both teachers and high school students, focusing on entrepreneurial thinking and ideation.

Meet Paul J. Hooker and History of the Hooker Center