Our Mission

The Ignite Institute for Business Innovation is a distinguished Center of Excellence at Saint Peter’s University, dedicated to fostering the entrepreneurial spirit through comprehensive education, strategic business planning, community-focused programs, and innovative research initiatives, both locally and regionally. As a catalyst for positive change, the Ignite Institute enhances local economic development by empowering entrepreneurs and delivering valuable thought leadership to public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders.

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History of the Ignite Institute

The Ignite Institute was established in 2014 through a collaboration with Rising Tide Capital, aiming to foster entrepreneurship by providing education, business planning support, community-based programs, and research initiatives both on campus and within the surrounding region. Since its inception, the Institute has played a significant role in enhancing local economic development, serving as a center for entrepreneurial empowerment and thought leadership that engages public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders. A pivotal moment in its growth came with a generous $100,000 donation from Provident Bank, which facilitated the launch of the Social Impact Incubator. This initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity of businesses in Jersey City and Hudson County, particularly focusing on social impact enterprises and nonprofit organizations. The Ignite Institute also hosts annual events such as Town and Gown and Peacock Pitch (Shark Tank) and offers learning courses that provide students with opportunities to engage in volunteer work with local companies.

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Meet the Team

Director

Chanaz Gargouri

Student Advisor and Institute Ambassador

Mikayla Carrillo ‘26

Student Advisors

Diana Soto ‘25

Lesly Mejia ‘25

Yvette Cruz ‘25

Professional Advisor

Carlos Gutierrez Chief Marketing Office (CMO) of EmPath

Administrative Advisor

Linda Moore Assistant Vice President for Individual Giving

Mentors

Dr. Kimberly Reeve KPMG Dean, Frank J.Guarini School of Business

Dr. Samar Issa; PhD Assistant Professor of Finance, Business Analytics, and Leadership