Huskie Business Pack

Mission Statement

The Huskie Business Pack connects, supports, and celebrates Huskie-led businesses and nonprofits while fostering a network that inspires Huskies to start, grow, relocate, and invest in businesses and nonprofits that strengthen DeKalb County and Northern Illinois.

Vision Statement

A thriving Huskie business and nonprofit community where alumni entrepreneurs, students, and university partners collaborate to create opportunity, strengthen alumni connections, inspire the next generation of business and nonprofit leaders, and drive the long-term economic vitality of DeKalb County and the Northern Illinois region.

Eligibility

A Huskie-led business is a business, nonprofit, or entrepreneurial venture in which one or more individuals who attended NIU for any period of time serve in a significant ownership or leadership role.  Businesses founded by NIU alumni may continue to participate after leadership transitions, provided they maintain an ongoing relationship with the initiative or the university. 

Alumni Testmomials

“As a local business owner and proud alum, the connection between NIU, our local businesses, and the entire DeKalb County community is vital. Being part of the Huskie Business Pack gives us a direct bridge to student talent available for internships and collaborative projects with the university. Staying involved isn't just great for business—it keeps us deeply invested in the future of our Huskie community.”

Bill McMahon Owner, Lincoln Inn and Faranda’s

“A strong community isn't a group of separate players; it's a network where each connection makes the next one stronger. An NIU graduate who stays and hires the next graduate. A business owner who mentors the student who becomes the next owner. The university and the City of DeKalb working toward the same goal. That's what the Huskie Business Pack is building, and it's why I'm part of it. When NIU, local businesses, and the city reinforce one another, the whole region compounds.”

Pramit Patel President and CEO, eo5 Hotels

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