The Creating Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) project is part of the Entrepreneurial Communities Program at the Michigan State University (MSU) Land Policy Institute (LPI). The CEC Project is a long-term and comprehensive approach to economic development for local economies. Partners for this project include LPI and MSU Extension. With a key strategy to develop entrepreneurs through local entrepreneurial support ecosystems, the project works to cultivate a more entrepreneurial culture. Utilizing community coaching and educational programs aimed at developing the knowledge and capacity of core leadership teams, this project focuses on helping build community-based programs that are sustainable, and based on the commitment, talent and connections of local leaders.