Josh Botkin

Joshua Botkin is a Lecturer of Entrepreneurial Studies at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business and an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the Zell Lurie Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies. He teaches entrepreneurship and innovation across undergraduate, graduate, executive, and alumni programs. He serves as the Faculty Director of the Zell Entrepreneurs Program, supporting student founders with mentorship and funding.

• Education:
• MBA, University of Michigan (2006)
• AB, Columbia University (1992)

His research interests focus on entrepreneurship in technology-driven sectors, including medical devices and biotechnology. Botkin advises venture-backed startups like HistoSonics (focused on non-invasive tumor treatment) and Vergent Bioscience (developing tumor-imaging agents). As a strategic innovation consultant, he collaborates with Global 500 firms (e.g., Ford, UnitedHealth Group) and nonprofits to design novel products and business models.

Botkin has led innovation initiatives for clients such as AARP and Ford Motor Company. Earlier roles include VP of Product & Business Development at an orthopedic-health startup and managing an e-commerce division for a Fortune 500 retailer. His career also includes contributing to PBS documentaries hosted by Walter Cronkite.

He actively mentors student entrepreneurs through the Zell Program and emphasizes translating academic insights into real-world innovation.