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Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Also known as: GMU CIE
George Mason University · Fairfax, VA
Quick fit check
- Indirect support only
- No equity required
- Currently active
- Verified by research
Key numbers
Funding range
—
Equity
None
Application
Rolling
Campus Wide
Last activity
2026-06-24
High confidence
The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) is housed in the Costello College of Business at George Mason University. Established in 2014, it fuels the growth of the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting students, alumni, and community members with resources and opportunities.
Key programs include the Patriot Pitch Competition (annual, $60,000 total prize pool across four tracks), the Patriot Ventures Program (real-world entrepreneurship experience), the SOAR Initiative (holistic small business creation), the RISE Program (transforming individuals and families from survival to thriving), and the WISE Program (entrepreneurship training for Fairfax County residents).
The CIE also administers global programming through Mason Korea.
Key people: Email: ciemason@gmu.edu
News & articles
News articles and official sources documenting Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at George Mason University.
2 sources
Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
George Mason University
George Mason University
Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Located in Costello College of Business at George Mason University. Established 2014. Key programs: Patriot Pitch Competition ($60K in 2026), Patriot Ventures Program, SOAR Initiative, RISE Program, WISE Program, Mason Korea programs.
Read on George Mason University
George Mason University
Patriot Pitch Competition
Annual pitch competition by Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. Open to all Mason students and recent alumni (5 years post-graduation). 2026: $60,000 total prize pool across 4 tracks (Innovative Ideas, Social Impact, Future Founders, Early-Stage Ventures). Presented by 22nd Century Technologies. Final pitch event: April 9, 2026 at HUB Ballroom, Fairfax Campus.
Read on George Mason University