Entrepreneurship at Chapman

Welcome to the Ralph W. Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics. We inspire, educate, and empower entrepreneurs.

From students to faculty, staff and community members, our aim is to support all who seek to innovate, launch and succeed in running their own business.

Our resources include startup incubators and accelerators, workshops and events, a vibrant female founders network, one-on-one mentorship, a pitch competition and the student-run Chapman CEO Club.

The Leatherby Center is your launchpad for entrepreneurship. And the best part? It’s all offered at no cost.

leatherby group

By the Numbers

430,000

New Business Applications per Month

Of US GDP Comes from Small Businesses

Of Gen Z's Want to Start a Side Hustle or Gig

ENTREPRENEURS WHO INSPIRE

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

The Leatherby Center hosts a variety of events open to everyone, offering opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.

ENTREPRENEURS@CHAPMAN

Inclusive Innovation Hub

The Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics is proud to be Orange County's Accelerate CA: Inclusive Innovation Hub. There is only ONE HUB per county and we are honored to have earned that designation from the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA).

What this means is that we serve ALL entrepreneurs! Our doors are open to everyone — students, staff, faculty, and the even COMMUNITY members. Most of our programs are available to any entrepreneur at no cost!

US National Times

Empowering Affordable Housing: Leatherby Center Helps Community Entrepreneur Bring AI Innovation to Life

a large group of people sitting and standing in a large room

Los Angeles Times

Chapman University Uses State Grants to Support the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

In the News

If you are interested in reading more news about us, please visit:

Leatherby Center Press Room

Testimonials

“Every event offers something meaningful — a new perspective, a burst of motivation, or an incredible connection.”
— Chapman Entrepreneurship Student

“You’re gaining everything you learn from the speaker — but also from the community.”
— Maddie M., Chapman Student

“The Leatherby Center delivers what founders actually need: clarity, cadence, and access.”
— Marcus Singleton, Founder, E-Mobility Africa Group

“The Leatherby Center has become a true home for entrepreneurs — a place where students, alumni, and local founders connect, collaborate, and grow.”
— Zaphera F., Chapman Entrepreneurship Student

Leatherby Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics