The center works closely with the business community to address important problems from a top-management perspective. Research programs often take the form of consortia sponsored by major corporations. Recent programs have focused on mergers and acquisitions, global innovation systems, the environment and energy policy, and innovation. The center also runs a colloquium series where eminent speakers present their latest ideas.

Committed to teaching, research, and outreach, the center offers programs for undergraduates and graduates seeking to major in entrepreneurship. Research and teaching focus on topics such as business formation, entrepreneurship and innovation, venture capital, technology-based start-ups, international entrepreneurship, and the creation of value in entrepreneurial ventures.

The Center for Integrative Leadership at the University of Minnesota aims to develop a better understanding of how collective action across sectors (business, government, nonprofits, media, academia) and geographic boundaries can solve some of the world’s most pressing and complex societal problems. It is a cooperative undertaking of the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs and the Carlson School of Management.