Cal State Channel Islands Launches a New Institute Devoted to Small Business

California State University Channel Islands has launched a new Small Business Institute, devoted to business education and the assistance of local small businesses. The launching of the new program was made possible by a major grant from Southern California Edison and coincides with the appointment of a new director, CSUCI faculty member and business executive Rudolph I. Estrada.

Recently recommended by the Cal State Channel Islands Academic Senate and approved by the President, the Small Business Institute will provide experiential learning opportunities for business students by undertaking internships and student consulting. Students will participate in field-case consulting assignments and internships in small and emerging companies located in the University's service area. The service is provided free of charge to participating small businesses.

A major grant from Southern California Edison as well as financial support by other corporate sponsors will further the mission of the institute and help defray costs with its operations. Ana Barbosa, Director of Business and Economic Development at Southern California Edison stated, "SCE is delighted to be a part of this worthwhile program. We look forward to working with the University on this project."

The University also announced the appointment of a new director, Rudolph I. Estrada, business and management lecturer at the University. Mr. Estrada has served as the former White House Commissioner on Small Business, the former Director of the United States Small Business Administration, a former executive with a world wide bank, and has been a business executive and faculty member with the CSU system for over twenty years.

"The appointment of Rudolph Estrada as Director of the Small Business Institute here at our University rounds out our commitment to make this one of the finest entrepreneurial programs in our California State University system," commented University President Richard R. Rush. "With this new institute, the University hopes to promote entrepreneurial programs here on campus and to support and enhance the small business fabric and economy of our service area."

For information on the Small Business Institute, contact Rudolph Estrada at 805-437-8983.

Media Contact: Peggy Hinz or Kent Baxter, 805-437-8415