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Institute for Private Business

It's often said that entrepreneurs can do well by doing good. Entrepreneurs display concern for the good of the larger society in their role, through good work, helping others or support of educational, civic, social or charitable activities. They also display organizational or financial success and achievement. At Saint Louis University's Chaifetz School, these values are the root of our entrepreneurial education and center.

Entrepreneurial Thinking for Generations

Creating a Foundation

The Institute for Private Business (IPB), formed by the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship at the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business, represents a culmination of the 200-year history of the University's close relationship with the region’s business community. The institute is led by a steering committee of private business owners, entrepreneurs and community leaders who dedicate their time and talent to the effort of advancing private businesses in the Greater St. Louis region and beyond. IPB creates a higher awareness of relevant private business concerns that impacts over 30 million privately held businesses in the U.S., which generate greater than half of our country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and jobs.

The Institute for Private Business helps owners of family-owned and other private businesses and key executives to resolve critical issues, shape the future growth of their businesses and power the future of the St. Louis region. This is accomplished through a membership network that combines Saint Louis University’s nationally ranked entrepreneurship program with a confidential peer environment and outside industry experience.

Membership

Benefits
  • Panel discussions through Boardroom Breakfast
  • Member-hosted Teach and Tours
  • Forum group
  • SLU Intern Program
  • Book club
  • Exclusive member database
  • Exclusive workshops and retreats
  • 25 percent discount for Allsup High School Summer Entrepreneurship Academy (Family Business Track)
Program Topics
  •  Leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Talent sourcing
  • Recruitment and retention
  • Boards
  • Innovation
  • Succession planning
  • Family dynamics
  • Financing growth
  • Risk-management culture
  • Business development
  • Creative engagement
Membership Levels

Core Membership: $3,000

IPB Core Membership is open to all private businesses and is likely to be most beneficial to companies that are established, viable and have moved beyond the start-up phase. Unless otherwise specified for an individual program, IPB programs should be attended by owners, C-suite executives, directors and/or advisory board members. Core Membership includes access for four employees/family members to attend all IPB events included in the program.

Associate Membership: $6,000

Service providers and other non-privately-owned businesses are invited to participate in IPB as Associate Members. Associate Membership includes access for two employees to attend all IPB events included in the Core Membership program. If a service provider is privately owned, they may opt to become a Core Member; however, it is expected that attendees will include owners and C-suite executives from the firm. 

Once a year, the Institute for Private Business welcomes a nationally renowned private business owner to speak with our community guests at a public and free event. Some of our past speakers include the founders, owners or executives of Heartland Coca-Cola, Under Armour, Harlem Globetrotters, Crate & Barrel, Radio Flyer, Helzberg Diamonds, Honey Baked Ham and Herschend Family Entertainment.

Presenting Partner: Anders CPA & Advisors

Additional Sponsors: CMA