Michael Agbabian Empowers Armenia’s Future Entrepreneurs

2 min read

GLENDALE, California — Michael Agbabian has been a steadfast supporter of the American University of Armenia (AUA), continuing his family’s long standing legacy. His late father, Dr. Mihran Agbabian, was one of the co-founders of the University and served as its first president from 1991 to 1996. Three decades ago, his father’s pioneering efforts, along with those of the co-founders, laid the foundations of a new institutional system of higher education in Armenia. Building upon that groundbreaking accomplishment, now Michael is investing in the new generation of AUA students, providing them with the tools and resources they would need to succeed in the world of digital and technological entrepreneurship. 

In 2017, Michael set up two endowments at AUA through the Sara Chitjian Entrepreneurship and Product Innovation Center (EPIC). These endowments yield the funding for the Michael Agbabian Seed Grant and the Michael Agbabian Innovator Prize. Elaborating on the concept of the endowments, Michael says: “I always felt from the very beginning that, for Armenia to have a robust future, we need to inspire innovation and creativity. What better way than to support budding entrepreneurs by educating them and guiding them through the process of starting a viable business? AUA’s EPIC program is the perfect forum for this to happen.” 

During the annual EPIC Demo Day, startup teams pitch their innovative ideas to an audience of faculty, students, and investors. Through a meticulous selection process, a designated jury evaluates each participating team’s overall performance during the incubation program, progress made since then, and potential for success in its new venture to select two winners for the Agbabian prizes. “I hope that the Agbabian Innovation and Seed Grant awards not only plant small seeds for the entrepreneurs to continue pursuing their vision but also motivate others in the program. I hope knowing there will be a monetary prize rewarding their efforts will drive them forward to make the very best pitches at the end.”

Together with his mother, Elizabeth, brothers Bryan and Paul, and their respective family members, Michael remains committed to carrying on the legacy his father left behind. He hopes that AUA continues to be firm in its mission of educating the future generations of Armenia and wraps-up: “Thousands of undergraduate and graduate students leave the University with the highest level of American education. The skills they possess should benefit all aspects of Armenian society. From business to engineering to public health and more, these graduates are driving the future of Armenia and inspiring the next generation to do the same.”

Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values. AUA’s Office of Development stewards the University’s philanthropic efforts exclusively for educational purposes.