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Center for Business and Economics

At the Bruce R. Thompson Center for Business and Economics (CBE), shape your success within the next generation of business innovators and entrepreneurs. With expert faculty, the CBE offers professional development programming and hands-on learning opportunities to prepare you for an ever-changing global economy.

Professional Development

Discover what your future holds with the Center for Business and Economics. Our year-round programming takes your education beyond the classroom with experiences that provide valuable connections and build confidence.

Zingale Big Idea Competition – Pitch your business idea, win cash prizes, and get feedback from experienced entrepreneurs. Think Shark Tank, but supportive.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistant (VITA) Internship – Earn IRS certification and support the surrounding community by preparing free tax returns for Meadville residents.
Lunchtime Learning Series – Hear from Allegheny College’s network of professionals about careers, internships, and trends in business and economics.
Center for Business and Economics (CBE) Fellows – Join a select group of student leaders who help shape events, support programming, and represent the Center.
Student-Managed Investment Fund – Manage real investments with guidance from faculty and industry advisors.

Connect with CBE on LinkedIn

Allegheny College students work on laptops as part of the Center for Business and Economics VITA Internship program

Microcredentials

Level up your résumé with industry-recognized microcredentials. These digital badges help you stand out to employers and grad schools by highlighting real skills you gain through courses and hands-on experiences.

Choose from four high-demand areas: Accounting, Finance, Investing, and Tax Fundamentals. Whether you get credentialed in analyzing financial data, preparing real tax returns or anything in between, each proves you’re ready to apply what you’ve learned.

Microcredentials and Academic Programs

A student presents business idea during the Center for Business and Economics' Zingdale Big Ideas Competition

Mentorship, Networking, & Career Access

Learn directly from professionals and expand your network:

Executive in Residence – Meet accomplished business leaders, hear their stories, and gain career advice through interactive sessions.
Board of Visitors Event – Connect with alumni who return to campus to mentor students and share career insights.
Distinguished Lecture & Roundtable – Explore big issues shaping the global economy with experts and industry leaders.

Career Readiness at Allegheny

Group shot of Center for Business and Economics (CBE) fellows at Allegheny College

Student Organizations

Omicron Delta Epsilon (ODE) – Allegheny is home to one of the 700 active chapters of ODE worldwide. By joining this international honor society, you connect with a professional network of students passionate about economics.
Women in Business & Economics (WIBE) – Build connections, find mentorship, and support women pursuing careers in business and economics.

Explore Clubs and Organizations

Quick Links

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