The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence (IEE) announces the appointment of Eric Swift, Ed.D., as Assistant Director of the University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Dr. Swift, will begin his new role on March 3, 2025.
Dr. Swift joined the IEE as a Management Consultant in December 2022, supporting the Pitt SBDC’s outreach office at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). In this role, he has provided consulting services to pre-venture, startup, and established small businesses throughout Indiana County, helping local entrepreneurs navigate challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
Dr. Swift brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership capabilities to his new role, drawing from extensive experience in both higher education and the small business ecosystem in western PA. Dr. Swift has worked within the Pennsylvania SBDC network for over a decade and he has served more than 500 clients, assisting entrepreneurs at all stages—from startups to companies generating up to $15 million in revenue. In addition to his work in economic development, he is a frequent contributor to entrepreneurial publications, sharing experience and insights for business success.
Dr. Swift’s experience also extends to workforce development. Through Project G.A.T.E. (Growing America Through Entrepreneurship), he has trained and consulted with 300 clients, helping them transition from unemployment to self-employment.
“I am excited to step into this new role and continue working with the outstanding team at the Pitt SBDC. My goal is to continue the legacy of excellence that the Pitt SBDC is known for by focusing on innovation, engagement, and impact.”
Dr. Swift holds an MBA and Ed.D. from Duquesne University, where his dissertation focused on the emotional intelligence of entrepreneurs. He also earned certificates in leadership and entrepreneurship from Harvard Business School Online and the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
About the University of Pittsburgh SBDC
The Pitt SBDC, established in 1979, is within the Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence (IEE), part the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship housed under the Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor of Research. The Pitt SBDC provides business owners with the information and tools necessary to build successful businesses. The SBDC’s mission is to develop and strengthen the businesses of southwestern Pennsylvania by imparting knowledge and expertise through professional consulting and education. The Pitt SBDC is designated by the Pennsylvania SBDC as a Center of Excellence for Digital Services as a superior provider of digital technology services and as a Center of Excellence for Supply Chain for activities empowering vendor/supplier engagements. For more information, visit sbdc.pitt.edu.