Kellogg School of Management · Northwestern University

Zell Fellows Program

Our Zell Fellows venture further

151
New Venture Track Alumni
$824M
In venture funding and awards
70
Active ventures
99
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Alumni
29
Successful ETA acquisitions
Zell Fellows Program
Overview

The Kellogg Zell Fellows Program supports MBA students who want to build something now, whether they’re launching a new venture or acquiring an existing one. Through personalized mentorship, applied experiences and resources, and community-building, the program helps students move further, faster, but our ultimate bet is on them as entrepreneurs and lifelong Zell Fellows.

How it works

New Venture Track

For founders launching new startups. Tailored support across industries — B2B, B2C, healthcare, social impact, or emerging markets — equips founders with the tools and experiences to grow as entrepreneurs throughout their careers.

ETA Track

For aspiring entrepreneurs acquiring existing companies, across traditional search, self-funded deals, incubated searches, and family business succession. Hands-on guidance and frameworks prepare students for CEO roles through real-world exposure and mentorship.

Recognition

Kellogg is widely celebrated for leadership excellence — ranked #2 in the U.S. for Full-Time and Executive MBAs and #1 for Evening & Weekend MBA by U.S. News (2025–26).

Team
Faculty
David Schonthal
Executive Director
Tasha Seitz
New Venture Track Co-Lead
Rebecca Kahnweiler
New Venture Track Co-Lead
Alexander Schneider
ETA Track Co-Lead
Matt Littell
ETA Track Co-Lead
Staff
Jennifer Herold
Alumni Liaison
Tyler Seybold
Zell Senior Program Manager