Brumley Institute for Graduate Entrepreneurship

Jon Brumley Texas Venture Labs announces name change to reflect expanded vision

Jon Brumley Texas Venture Labs is proud to announce an official name change to Brumley Institute for Graduate Entrepreneurship, marking an exciting new chapter in the institute’s ongoing commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth, innovation, and career development across The University of Texas at Austin community and beyond. The Brumley Institute is housed within Texas McCombs School of Business.

Mellie Price, the institute’s executive director, said the announcement comes with deep appreciation and reflection following the recent passing of the institute’s namesake and endower, Jon Brumley. Brumley’s vision and enduring dedication to student success and entrepreneurial excellence continue to shape the institute’s work and mission to empower graduate students, alumni, and Austin-area businesses to thrive, Price said.

The updated name reflects an intentional expansion in focus, supporting all forms of entrepreneurship, not just venture-backed startups. Action has already begun to further this goal, adding the Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) and Search Fund Practicum, as well as the Small Business Impact Program to the institute’s catalog.

“Entrepreneurship today takes many forms: small-business owners, corporate innovators, nonprofit leaders, as well as venture-backed founders,” said Price. “Our new name better captures the breadth of what we do and whom we serve –– and we remain guided by Jon Brumley’s unwavering commitment to empowering future entrepreneurs.”

With this transition comes an enriched set of academic offerings and co-curricular programs designed to meet students and entrepreneurs where they are. These include:

• Courses tailored to inclusive innovation and alternative business models.

• Expanded mentorship opportunities with experienced founders and business leaders.

• Programs focused on career development, intrapreneurship, and scalable impact.

“The institute will continue to serve its core audiences, like graduate students, alumni, and the larger Austin entrepreneurial ecosystem, while opening the door even wider for new kinds of ventures and ideas to flourish,” Price said.

Upcoming programs and ways to get involved are listed on the institute’s website.

Story by Mary Grace Granito