Behind every cup of rich, aromatic coffee at Saxbys Café lies more than just a caffeine boost—it represents a hands-on laboratory for student entrepreneurship and leadership development. Northeastern University’s Saxbys Café, which launched operations on September 2, 2024, is entirely managed and operated by students, offering a real-world business environment to hone their skills.

The innovative program transcends traditional classroom learning by integrating theory with practical experience. Students oversee daily operations, from team management to strategic decision-making, while confronting the challenges of running a commercial enterprise. This model not only sharpens their business acumen but also cultivates essential soft skills like collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability.

While student-led ventures are not uncommon—such as the marketing firm founded by two Bowling Green State University undergraduates to serve local businesses—Northeastern’s Saxbys initiative distinguishes itself through its structured, institutional support. The university partners with the café chain to provide mentorship and resources, creating a scalable framework for entrepreneurial growth.

The success of Saxbys Café at Northeastern offers a compelling blueprint for higher education institutions seeking to bridge academia and industry. By embedding students in authentic business scenarios, universities can nurture a generation of innovators equipped with both technical expertise and leadership resilience—qualities increasingly demanded in today’s dynamic job market.