Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

When Dave Iuppa earned his Executive MBA from Golden Gate University in 1986, he didn’t just walk away with a degree—he walked into a lifelong commitment to his alma mater. With a keen interest in building community and fostering connections, Dave joined the GGU Alumni Association soon after graduation. “I loved the idea of networking and being part of a supportive community,” he shares. “It felt natural to get involved and, eventually, to run for President of the Alumni Association.”

In his role as Alumni Association President, Dave not only shaped alumni initiatives but also joined GGU’s Board of Trustees, where he played an active role in advancing the university’s mission.

“I went from being a student on the sidelines to someone contributing to important conversations about the future of GGU,” he reflects. “It was incredibly rewarding to have a voice on the Board and to work alongside others equally committed to GGU’s success.”

Dave’s passion for giving back extended to the classroom, where he shared his expertise in marketing, sales, and market research. His popular course, Reality Check, equipped aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills for launching and managing their own ventures. “I find teaching very energizing,” he says. “When you’re helping people achieve their goals and sharing your knowledge, it’s motivating. You feel good knowing you’re making a meaningful contribution.”

Today, Dave leads the Chevron Small Business and Entrepreneur Program, a hidden gem underwritten by Chevron and hosted by GGU, that has quietly empowered aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide. This virtual program, offered one to two times per year at no cost, serves individuals from diverse backgrounds and business stages.

“Now that the program is fully online, we’ve had participants join from Vietnam, France, Chile—you name it,” he notes. “It’s incredible to witness the exchange of ideas on a global scale.”

The Chevron Small Business and Entrepreneur Program provides an intensive 12-week curriculum covering core areas such as marketing, sales, market research, and finance. Participants work through the fundamentals, develop actionable business plans, and refine pitches designed to attract investors and clients alike. “Starting a business requires a huge investment of time, energy, and insight,” Dave explains. “By the end of the program, our participants are truly prepared to launch their ideas into the world.”

Following the formal coursework, each participant is paired with a mentor for nine months, providing valuable guidance as they continue to develop their businesses. For Dave, mentoring is the most rewarding aspect of his work. “When someone tells me that something I said changed their approach or clarified their vision, it’s incredibly fulfilling.”

In that spirit, Dave is calling on GGU alumni to join the Chevron Small Business and Entrepreneur Program as mentors, offering just 30 minutes a month to support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Calling all experienced business professionals! The Chevron Small Business and Entrepreneur Program needs alumni mentors to guide our emerging entrepreneurs. To get involved, contact smallbiz@ggu.edu.