Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Combine innovation and entrepreneurial skills for a tangible impact on business development

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Program Highlights

Collaborate with an industry sponsor, California Milk Advisory Board, to create a product innovation

Work in teams of 4 students for real-world innovations in the dairy sector

Visit the Cal Poly Creamery to understand the current product portfolio

Experience the innovation process from ideation to product formulation

Write and present your elevator pitch to a group of industry representatives

Residential Tuition:
$5,298

Session 2:
July 14, 2024 July 26, 2024

Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly SLO - San Luis Obispo, CA

Course Overview

Students will embark on a journey of innovation and entrepreneurship, prioritizing hands-on experience and real-world application over theoretical learning. They will form teams of 3-4 and compete to develop innovative dairy sector products. They will engage in the innovation process and receive feedback from the industry sponsor, the California Milk Advisory Board. At the conclusion of the course, winners will be announced, and all students will receive certificates in recognition of their efforts. This immersive experience not only fosters teamwork, but also underscores effective communication in a professional context. This course offers a unique opportunity to combine innovation and entrepreneurial skills for a tangible impact on business development.

Meet your instructor

Dr. Christiane Schroeter

Innovation & Entrepreneurship Cal Poly SLO

Dr. Schroeter is a Professor in the Agribusiness Department at Cal Poly. With a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University, her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Dissertation Award. Dr. Schroeter's research has appeared in prestigious journals like the Journal of Health Economics, and she's known for her inspiring teaching style.

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Topics you'll explore

Course Structure

There are nine 3-hour class sessions over the two-week course. During week one, students have class from 9am-12pm, Monday - Friday. During week two, students have class from 9am-12pm Monday through Thursday. Wednesday afternoons are dedicated to additional academic time (excursions, speakers).

Career Exploration

Students will visit the Cal Poly Creamery and the Dairy Innovation Center and meet with a Senior Manager in Business Development
at the California Milk Advisory Board