Catalyzing Technology Products, Innovators, and Founders

Our Approach

The Christensen Family Center for Innovation (CFCI) supports the next generation of technology product leaders by equipping Duke students and alumni with the skills, experiences, and mentorship needed to build impactful ventures.

Through immersive programs, hands-on courses, and founder-focused initiatives, the Center helps engineering and business students — including recent Pratt graduates — learn how to identify customer needs, design innovative solutions, and bring new products to market.

By connecting technical training with entrepreneurial practice, the Christensen Center fosters a community where aspiring product leaders and engineering founders can grow from idea to execution.

Vision

We empower communities of innovation to build technology products together.

Mission

We develop products, product leaders, and founders to catalyze Duke’s technology venture pipeline toward bold societal impact focused on the public good.

Values

Joyful innovation – We embrace creativity and approach challenges with a spirit of curiosity and fun, turning every idea into an opportunity to innovate

Outcome-oriented – We thrive on collaboration, tackling obstacles with a solutions-first mindset, quickly adapting and evolving for the best outcomes

Collaborative Learning – We are committed to constant growth — personally, professionally, and as a team — always striving to learn, improve, and push boundaries