Welcome to the Family Owned Business Institute
In September 1999, the Seidman College of Business and the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce (working with its Family-Owned Business Council) raised $301,000 from a salute to Jay Van Andel and Rich DeVos. This became the seed money for the Family Owned Business Institute, housed at the downtown campus of Grand Valley State University.
The creation of the Family Owned Business Institute at Grand Valley State University is born out of the collective belief that family businesses (large and small) are the cornerstone of a community's prosperity and a vital ingredient in its quality of life.
Upcoming Events
SPGC x FERC Global Family Business Summit
FOBI Research Impact
Podcast Series
Scholar in Residence
SPGC x FERC Global Family Business Summit
Grand Rapids, Michigan | May 18-21, 2027
The Summit is convening the best minds in academia, business families and family business consultants to connect, share ideas and learn new strategies for achieving their mutual goals. With keynotes, workshops, expert panels, and discussions, we’ll explore essential and emerging family business topics. We aim to create a rich exchange of insights and experiences. Our goal is to ensure there is something new for every participant—be part of making it happen!
Thrive Forward: Building Inclusion Success with FOBI Podcast
Christina Keller
SEASON 2: CURRENT EPISODE
Episode 2: Christina Keller
In this episode, Christina Keller shares her experiences, the challenges she has faced, and the lessons she has learned along the way. This conversation explores the personal side of family business, the importance of leadership, and what it takes to build something that lasts for future generations.
GLOBAL FAMILY BUSINESS REPORT 2025
The 2025 Stichting STEP Project Global Consortium (SPGC) and KPMG Private Enterprise Global Family Business Report is now LIVE!
