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Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship
Also known as: Close School
Drexel University · Philadelphia, PA
The Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship at Drexel University is the nation's first dedicated school of entrepreneurship to offer degrees. Founded in 2013 via a $12.5M gift from Charles D. Close. Offers BA/BS, MS, graduate minor, and certificates in Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Ranked #2 in Mid-Atlantic and #20 nationally (Princeton Review 2026). Curriculum includes Launch IT course (up to $2K seed funding), Innovation Fund Due Diligence (VC investing experience), and Entrepreneurship Co-op.
Quick fit check
- Offers direct funding
- No equity required
- Currently active
- Verified by research
Key numbers
Funding range
$2,000 – $2,000
Grant
Equity
None
Application
Ongoing
Campus Wide
Last activity
2026-06-24
High confidence
Application and Timing
Ongoing enrollment through Drexel admissions for degree programs. Launch IT and other courses offered per academic term.
Participants
Drexel undergraduate and graduate students from all academic disciplines. Concentrations available in Social Entrepreneurship, Corporate Entrepreneurship, New Venture Creation, Technology Entrepreneurship, and Venture Investing.
Funding and Equity
Launch IT course provides up to $2,000 in seed funding (non-dilutive). Broader access to Innovation Fund ($150K) and Startups Fund ($25K) through Baiada Institute.
Recent Activity
- 2026: Princeton Review ranks Close School #2 Mid-Atlantic, #20 nationally.
- 2026: Dragon Launch Philly community program phase one completed (Coca-Cola partnership).
- 2025: Launch IT and Innovation Fund courses active.
Verification Gaps
- Total number of students enrolled and graduated not documented.
- Launch IT per-term budget not specified.
Additional research notesShow
News & articles
News articles and official sources documenting Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship at Drexel University.
1 source

