Stanford researcher has spent more than 20 years studying evolution of universities as innovation engines
Chuck Eesley joined Stanford in 2009 and recently became a faculty Co-Director of the Stanford Technology Ventures Program.
Chuck Eesley, a leading scholar in entrepreneurship at Stanford University, has spent more than 20 years examining how American universities have evolved from being merely institutions for research and learning to becoming engines of innovation fueling economic and societal progress.
In a study published earlier this year, he found that providing students with the autonomy and flexibility to take elective courses influences who becomes an entrepreneur, fosters new opportunities, and cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset. A 2020 study by Eesley showed that mentorship matters as well – students guided by seasoned entrepreneurs make more savvy business decisions and launch companies that last longer.
These are among the many insights Eesley has unearthed throughout his career, illuminating the many factors that contribute to commercial success.
What makes start-ups that emerge from Stanford and other schools successful? According to Eesley, it’s not just the technology.
While a novel software or product is essential, an entire ecosystem is critical to ensuring its success on the market, he explained.
“It also takes a high-quality co-founding team involving academic expertise, industry experience, a supportive venture capital community, and knowledgeable accountants and lawyers who can structure deals,” he added.
A strong alumni network also helps by providing graduates with opportunities to meet potential investors, collaborators, and mentors. Programs that provide students with social capital can turn into financial capital, too.
Eesley joined Stanford in 2009 and recently became a faculty Co-Director of the Stanford Technology Ventures Program (STVP) in the School of Engineering, which provides resources and programs for students, faculty, and researchers to develop entrepreneurial skills and knowledge.
Like what you've read?
Forward to a friend!