The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Maryland has expanded its Board of Advisors from 15 to 21 members. The additions are part of an effort to engage more successful founders, investors and business leaders in the activities of the Center and expand its footprint in the region and nationwide. This esteemed group advises the Center’s executive director on strategic initiatives, development and growth opportunities and provides mentorship and connections to student and alumni entrepreneurs.

SMITH BRAIN TRUST — During his University of Maryland visit on Sept. 19, 2017, Washington Wizards and Capitals owner Ted Leonsis shared lessons from his youth and career as an entrepreneur and philanthropist.

The Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business has launched a startup podcast called Bootstrapped. The podcast features founders, investors and serial entrepreneurs from the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia startup scene. While the podcast covers many aspects of startup life, the heart of the show focuses on funding from both the founder and investor perspectives, thus the name, Bootstrapped.

On May 5, 2016, the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business is set to host the second annual “Rudy Awards.” Named for Dingman’s founder and former Smith School Dean Rudolph “Rudy” Lamone, this annual banquet was created to honor the vibrant network of student and alumni entrepreneurs, mentors, investors and many others who contribute to the center’s continued success. 

Last year, the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship launched the third and final phase of its Fearless Founders startup accelerator program, Terp Startup. Happening every summer, this incubator phase is designed to give students a means to focus exclusively on growing their startup. During the course of the program, the center provides students with a $3,500 stipend and access to mentors who will help them grow their business.

SMITH BRAIN TRUST -- A decision by the California Labor Commission has opened the debate on whether Uber drivers should be considered employees or independent contractors.

University of Maryland’s Smith School of Business and Peking University’s Guanghua School of Management Host 9th Annual Event 

Couldn't make it to watch Cupid's Cup in person today? A live stream will be made available at the start of the competition, targeted for 6 p.m. (EDT). Live Stream: http://cupidscup.umd.edu  Join the conversation on social media at #CupidCup  

Cupid’s Cup is turning 10, and Under Armour founder Kevin Plank ’96 is celebrating with an expanded entrepreneurship competition starting 6 p.m. April 22, 2014, at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. For the first time, student teams from outside the United States will join the field vying for $115,000 in cash prizes.