The CSUSB Randall W. Lewis School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, in partnership with the Palm Desert Entrepreneurial Resource Center (ERC), is offering its Fall 2026 Mini MBA – AI and Cyber edition - a free 10-week program designed to give entrepreneurs and small business owners practical tools to start, strengthen and grow their businesses.

The program brings together the “Greatest Hits” of an MBA with an entrepreneurial focus, covering topics ranging from entrepreneurial mindset, human resources and financial fundamentals to artificial intelligence, technology integration, funding and scaling a business.

The Fall Mini MBA will be held Fridays at the Palm Desert ERC from Sept. 18 through Nov. 20. Sessions are held from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Program schedule:

  • Sept. 18 – Entrepreneurship, Creativity & the Entrepreneurial Mindset
  • Sept. 25 – HR for Entrepreneurs
  • Oct. 2 – Ideation on AI and Cyber Integration
  • Oct. 9 – The Improvisational Mind
  • Oct. 16 – AI Toolbox
  • Oct. 23 – Financial Fundamentals for Entrepreneurs
  • Oct. 30 – Solution Identification & Tech Integration
  • Nov. 6 – Foundational Thinking & Sustainable Success
  • Nov. 13 – AI & Funding Resources
  • Nov. 20 – Growth & Scaling and Graduation Day

“Entrepreneurs today need the fundamentals of running and growing a business, but they also need to understand how technology is rapidly changing the way we compete,” said Ezekiel Bonillas, associate professor of entrepreneurship at CSUSB. “This Mini MBA brings those worlds together. We want participants to leave with practical tools they can put to work immediately while becoming better prepared to navigate AI, technology and the challenges that come with growing a business.”

The Mini MBA is one of the signature entrepreneurial training programs offered through the Palm Desert ERC. Participants learn directly from CSUSB faculty, industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs while building relationships with fellow business owners and connecting with the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem throughout the Coachella Valley.

The Palm Desert ERC, located across the street from the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus at 37023 Cook St., Ste. 102, is a regional business resource center providing training, counseling, technical assistance, networking opportunities and other resources to entrepreneurs and small businesses. The center brings together CSUSB and regional business-support organizations to provide entrepreneurs with access to resources throughout the life cycle of their businesses.

For more information or to register for the Fall 2026 Mini MBA, visit the event website.

For those who find the Mini MBA valuable and want to dive deeper into advanced business strategies, the full Masters of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation (MSEI) program is offered by the Randall W. Lewis School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Cal State San Bernardino. Renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, CSUSB’s MSEI program provides an in-depth exploration of business fundamentals, leadership and strategic thinking. It is an excellent next step for those looking to further their education and enhance their business skills.

About the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus: The CSUSB Palm Desert Campus is dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience in the Coachella Valley. With a focus on academic excellence and community engagement, the campus offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to meet the diverse needs of its students and the region.

For more information about the CSUSB Palm Desert Campus, contact Mike Singer in the Office of Marketing and Communications at msinger@csusb.edu or (760) 341-2883, ext. 78107, or visit the PDC website.