Leaders in Family Enterprise in Practice and Theory

1.5 credits · GM

Family businesses are the predominant form of business organizations, accounting for nearly two thirds of all businesses in the world, and contribute an estimated 70-90% of the annual global GDP. In the United States, it is estimated there are 32.4 million family businesses, and collectively they contribute over 54% of GDP and generate 59% of private sector workforce. These firms are distinguished from other enterprises by the significant influence of the controlling family on the creation, continuity, mode and extent of growth, and exit of a business. This course aims to prepare students to work effectively and professionally, in, with or for a family firm, to understand the unique characteristics of family ownership, and/or to create, launch and manage create cross-generational value and wealth in family firms.