The Carlson Funds Enterprise (CFE) is the original Enterprise course and stands among the premier student-run funds in the country. The CFE is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in investment management, corporate finance, and investment banking. 

The CFE manages two funds – a small capitalization growth fund and a fixed income fund – each having its own limited liability corporation structure. The CFE is the general partner of the funds, while each participant is a limited partner. An administrative fee is charged on each fund, and performance and capital account statements are provided to each limited partner on a monthly basis. 

The students manage all aspects of the funds including analysis of securities, trading, compliance, marketing, and client reporting.  Students are guided by a staff of two investment industry professionals with combined experience of over 50 years analyzing and managing equity and fixed income investments.

The Carlson School Growth Fund was started May 1, 1998. Growth fund analysts take control of all management issues with respect to the $12 million under management. Each analyst covers two to three stocks and completes rigorous analyses of covered firms. Additionally, in groups of two, the analysts research and present two stocks to the Investment Oversight Committee, one stock in the fall and one stock in the spring. Active assistance is provided by a group of professional mentors, and professional and academic faculty provides oversight.

The Carlson School Fixed Income Fund was started March 1, 2003. Fixed Income Fund analysts take control of all management issues with respect to the $15 million under management. Each analyst covers a sector, with new research presented to the Investment Oversight Committee twice a year. Active assistance is provided by a group of professional mentors, and professional and academic faculty provides oversight.