Hatchlings

Apply for the Hatch 2025!  

Hatchlings are students who have the opportunity to pitch a business idea to potential investors. They receive mentorship and guidance as they work to fully develop and think through their ideas. Modeled after the TV show “Shark Tank,” this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for BGSU students.

Entrepreneurship Minor Undergraduate Catalog

Students interested in entrepreneurship should consider enrolling in BGSU’s ESHP minor. The curriculum includes introductory, core, venture creation, intrapreneurial and capstone courses designed to teach the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. The minor is available for business and non-business majors.

Mentors

Mentors are graduates and business professionals who have the chance to bestow their experience and expertise to current Hatchlings. They help foster new business ideas and support the Hatchlings on their journeys.

Investors

Investing in the Center’s seed fund provides students the opportunity to get their businesses started or take their businesses to the next level. This fund offers up to $10,000 per students and has a committee dedicated to evaluating student businesses and managing the fund efficiently, as well as providing feedback and accountability to students who receive funding.

Judges

A panel of Hatch judges have the opportunity to hear student business ideas firsthand and distribute money from the Hatch prize fund. If you have knowledge in business or with startups, we encourage you to apply to become a judge.

Industry and/or Functional Expertise

If you have entrepreneurial expertise that you want to share with students or faculty in the department, we would love to hear your input. We encourage guest speakers and are open to new ideas.

Donations and Fundraising

If you are interested in supporting the Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership through donations or fundraising assistance, please fill out the form below.