About us

Our Purpose

The Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership develops and sustains a nationally recognized entrepreneurial ecosystem at BGSU. Our purpose reflects a belief that entrepreneurial thinking is not limited to any major or career path. It is a mindset focused on opportunity recognition, initiative and the resilience to turn ideas into action. Through applied learning, mentorship and collaboration we build a regional ecosystem where students and industry partners create value and drive real world impact together.

As a preeminent center for entrepreneurial leadership, we integrate academic learning with hands-on experiences that prepare students to solve problems, create value and contribute to the economic vitality of the region. Students learn through mentorship, real world projects, venture development opportunities and collaborations with alumni and expert partners.

Our goal is to empower learners to approach challenges with confidence. Whether a student wants to launch a business, innovate within their field, or strengthen their leadership skills, the center provides resources, guidance and pathways that help them build momentum and make meaningful progress.

Who we serve

The Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership supports a diverse community of learners and partners who share an interest in innovation and problem solving.

We serve:

• Students from all majors who want to gain entrepreneurial skills or pursue venture ideas
• Alumni who continue to grow as leaders, founders and mentors
• Expert partners who support student success through insights, coaching and engagement

Our programs are intentionally designed for all students, accessible and relevant across disciplines. We help students build skills that translate to any career. Human centered design programming for the common good.

Our story

The Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership has grown from a bold idea in 2002 into a nationally recognized hub for student innovation. At a time when university-based entrepreneurial centers were rare, BGSU envisioned a place where students and alumni could explore new ideas in a supportive, mentored environment.

As the center grew, it launched programs that elevated its national profile. Entrepreneurship Week became a signature experience each April, bringing leaders from around the country to campus. The Hatch quickly emerged as a flagship event where students pitch business concepts to real investors. The center also expanded opportunities for incubation, and provided, access to capital made possible through generous alumni support.

In 2018, the center was named to honor Paul J. Hooker, a distinguished BGSU alumnus and successful business leader who has long championed student innovation. After leading SFERRA Fine Linens for decades and building a global brand, Hooker returned to BGSU as a mentor for The Hatch and later stepped into leadership of the center. His commitment to guiding young entrepreneurs and supporting programs like RallyCap Sports reflects the spirit of service and impact that guides the center today.

The Paul J. Hooker Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership continues to grow. With more than 600 students in the entrepreneurship minor, partnerships with high schools, and expanding venture opportunities, the center remains a driving force for entrepreneurial thinking at BGSU. Each milestone reinforces the same commitment that shaped its founding: empowering students to lead with creativity, resilience and purpose.