Belinsky Entrepreneurial Learning Laboratory (BELL)

Made possible by a generous gift from Mike Ilitch School of Business alumnus Russell Belinsky and the Belinsky Family Trust, the Belinsky Entrepreneurial Learning Laboratory (BELL) provides resources, insights, and expertise to help launch sustainable, investment-ready student startups, and startups based on Wayne State intellectual property. Working in close coordination with instructors and students engaged in new entrepreneurship and innovation, the BELL helps student founders develop commercialization pathways and attract additional funding aligned with business.

Vision

The Belinsky Entrepreneurship Learning Laboratory (BELL) is an integral part of the thriving entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem at Wayne State University. The BELL provides fundamental support and expertise to develop and launch Wayne State startups and commercialize university intellectual property.

Mission

The BELL positions startups for success in securing funds and creating and managing growth by assisting with proof of concept, business model development, risk reduction and business plan creation. By providing tools, insight, expertise and support, the BELL helps catalyze the commercialization of proprietary Wayne State technologies and launch student startups.

Students who engage the BELL may participate in a student-run venture capital fund, compete in a technology pitch competition, consult with local businesses and nonprofits, and network with the entrepreneurial community. Students gain hands-on experience using their knowledge and abilities to develop new technologies and ventures, while also creating a talent pipeline for entrepreneurial growth in Detroit and Michigan.

The BELL embodies the Mike Ilitch School of Business mission by

• Playing an active role in enhancing the economic vitality of Detroit and Michigan
• Providing a tangible connection between academic programs in entrepreneurship and practical entrepreneurship, preparing students for challenging and rewarding careers
• Advancing the boundaries of scholarly and practitioner knowledge

Get involved

Are you passionate about imparting knowledge to future generation of innovators and entrepreneurs? Opportunities include roles as faculty, mentors, speakers, judges, or angel investors. Contact Director Kevin Ketels at krk@wayne.edu for more information.