Welcome to the heart of Gallaudet University

Gallaudet Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute

GIEI is the only university-based entrepreneur program in the world for individuals who are deaf.

Delivering background knowledge and experience that complements the skills and motivations of young entrepreneurs, the next generation of deaf CEOs, thought leaders, and change agents are grown here.

BisonTank Competition

This competition offers students and alumni an opportunity to build on their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit

Gallaudet Innovation and Entrepreneurship Institute (GIEI) annually host BisonTank Business Competition. This competition offers students and alumni an opportunity to build on their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit as well as the mindset required to be successful Changemakers. As well, it offers students the opportunity to explore ways to give back to the community through their innovative ideas.

Alumni BisonTank

Fall Semester – 3rd Thursday of October

Student BisonTank

Spring Semester – 3rd Thursday of April

Mentorship Program

Learn from the best

A free mentoring program consisting of Gallaudet alumni business owners for Gallaudet alums and students to receive personalized guidance. This program offers practical tips and support tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of Deaf entrepreneurs, turning their business ideas into successful enterprises.

Mentorship Sessions

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Organization Development, ASL Curriculum & Development, Community Building

International Development, Conservation/Environment Education, Project Design

Food Truck & Restaurant Management, Business Plan, Sustainability.

Digital Management, Web Design, Integrated Marketing

Real Estate, Standard Operating Procedures, Customer Services

Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Community Engagement & Growth Strategy, Project Management

Financials, strategy, and organization leadership

Go-to-market, pitch decks, MVP (minimum viable product)

Creative leadership, brand strategy, inclusive campaigns, partnerships, public speaking, management

BisonTalk Series

The BisonTalk Series, similar to Ted X, supports a culture of intersectionality, diversity, and inclusion among Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, and Deafened Entrepreneurs. With presenters from diverse backgrounds and entrepreneurial experiences, the series aims to foster peer-to-peer learning, resource sharing, and networking opportunities within our Deaf community.

Training Sessions

Total Trained

This is for ANYONE including Non Gallaudet Students Alumni Faculty Staff

Meet the Team

Director

Russell Stein

Gallaudet Opportunities for Advancement and Learning (GOAL) Director

Staff

Lorenzo Lewis

GIEI Coordinator

Corey Burton

Business Relations Manager