Abstract:

In today's rapidly evolving global economy, fostering entrepreneurship in higher education has become paramount. Universities play a transformative role in preparing students for startups and innovation, equipping them with vital skills and mindset (Etzkowitz & Leydesdorff, 2000). Small businesses are crucial contributors to economic growth, job creation, fostering innovation and competition (Audretsch, 2015), contributing to local economic development (Acs & Audretsch, 2010), generating tax revenue (SBA, n.d.), and empowering entrepreneurship and wealth creation (Acs & Audretsch, 2010).

This study explores the profound impact of university-industry cooperation on entrepreneurship education. Our grant-supported endeavor aims to develop an entrepreneurship bachelor's program, launch an innovation center, and provide a mobile application for 24/7 entrepreneurial strategies access and funding through an annual business plan pitch competition.

Researching college seniors aspiring to start their own businesses, including Spanish-speaking students, industry leaders, and alumni entrepreneurs, we seek to answer key questions:
1. Skill and Knowledge Alignment: How well do students perceive the alignment of program-acquired skills and knowledge with entrepreneurial demands?
2. Industry Partnerships: How actively does the university collaborate with industries to enhance program relevance and effectiveness?
3. Mentorship and Guidance: How does the level of mentorship and support align with practical entrepreneurial needs?
4. Practical Learning Experiences: How do experiential learning opportunities contribute to students' entrepreneurial readiness?

Using qualitative methods, including captivating case studies, and enlightening interviews with stakeholders, we aim to uncover essential ingredients for thriving entrepreneurship education (Robinson & Stubberud, 2018). Valuable insights into experiential learning and mentorship will guide aspiring student entrepreneurs towards sustainable ventures (Fayolle & Gailly, 2015).

Embarking on a qualitative journey, particularly for the bilingual (Hispanic and other minorities) entrepreneurs we delve into captivating case studies of successful student startups, and engage in enlightening interviews with key stakeholders, including university faculty, industry leaders, and alumni entrepreneurs.

Our findings will be inspiring and impactful. They will underscore the immense significance of university-industry partnerships, acting as a nurturing environment that fuels the entrepreneurial spirit among students (Robinson & Stubberud, 2018). Moreover, we gain valuable insights into the power of experiential learning and dedicated mentorship, steering aspiring student entrepreneurs towards building sustainable and innovative business ventures (Fayolle & Gailly, 2015).

In this exploration of the university's role in preparing future entrepreneurs, we take a human-centered approach, recognizing the dreams, aspirations, and potential of each student. As we embrace this exciting journey, we aspire to contribute to the studies on how to foster a culture of entrepreneurship within universities. By nurturing and empowering the students, together, through collaborative university-industry efforts, we can inspire and empower the entrepreneurs of tomorrow.

Keywords:

Entrepreneurship, University-Industry Partnership, Small Businesses, Entrepreneurship Program Curricula.