Business school helps students launch green technology ventures

Business school helps students launch green technology ventures

As more companies work to make their practices eco-friendly, many campus-based and online universities are adding sustainable teachings to their course offerings. In fact, some colleges are advocating the green movement by encouraging students to open their own businesses.

For example, the Center for Management at the UC Davis Graduate School of Management is holding a five-day program for budding entrepreneurs who wish to launch sustainable companies.

The center's Green Technology Entrepreneurship Academy will feature appearances from successful green entrepreneurs, including John Bissell, whose company Micromidas converts wastewater-based carbon into biodegradable, recyclable plastics.

Attendees will also hear speeches from venture capital experts, law firm representatives, faculty members from the business school and research professionals. Furthermore, participants - which will include masters degree candidates, post-doctoral researchers and faculty members from other universities - will have the opportunity to network with professionals in their prospective fields and one another.

Since its inception four years ago, the program has attracted more than 420 engineers, business students and scientists, many of whom have launched ventures in sectors such as green technology, food and health.

By Stefanie Hughes