George Mason University’s Costello College of Business will rename its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in honor of Northern Virginia entrepreneur Anil Sharma and his wife, Anupama Sharma. The recognition follows a gift from the couple intended to expand opportunities for students, founders and the region’s innovation community.

The renamed Anil and Anupama Sharma Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will connect students, faculty members, entrepreneurs, investors and industry partners. Its programs include the Patriot Pitch Competition, which gives George Mason students and recent alumni a platform to present business ideas and early-stage ventures.

Anil Sharma came to the United States from India in 1997 with $100 and founded 22nd Century Technologies later that year. The McLean, Virginia-based company began as an information technology consulting business and has grown into a $600 million government contractor serving federal, state and local agencies across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The company provides information technology, cybersecurity, cloud and digital transformation services. It employs more than 6,000 people nationwide, including more than 600 cybersecurity specialists, and is certified as a National Minority Business Enterprise.

Sharma also works as an angel investor and mentor to startups and small businesses. His involvement with George Mason’s entrepreneurship community includes support for Patriot Pitch, where students and alumni receive exposure to experienced business leaders and potential partners.

The Sharmas’ gift reflects their belief that education and mentorship can help people translate ideas into opportunity. Neither is a George Mason graduate, but the couple has emphasized the university’s role in strengthening communities and preparing future business leaders.

Costello College Dean Ajay Vinzé said the support will help establish the center as a leading destination at George Mason for innovators, aspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders. The university expects the center to broaden its programs, deepen collaboration and help new ventures contribute to Northern Virginia’s economy.

George Mason plans to hold a formal naming celebration this fall. The center’s new name recognizes the Sharmas’ entrepreneurial journey while creating a lasting platform for students and community members pursuing their own ideas.

Key Takeaways About Anil and Anupama Sharma

• George Mason will name its entrepreneurship center in their honor.
• Their gift will expand opportunities for students and regional entrepreneurs.
• Anil Sharma founded 22nd Century Technologies after immigrating from India.
• The company has grown into a $600 million government contractor.
• George Mason will hold a formal naming celebration this fall.