About Us

Introduction

The Institute for Applied Geopolitics is an educational and research organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of geopolitical analysis and intelligence studies. Through its comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, and collaborative partnerships, IAG aims to equip professionals, executives, and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the geopolitical landscape.

Founded by a team with backgrounds in geopolitical analysis, intelligence, and strategic advisory, IAG's mission is to provide insights, strategies, and capabilities needed to thrive in an unstable global environment.

The Institute is committed to delivering cutting-edge education & training to help individuals and organizations understand, anticipate, and respond to geopolitical challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their strategic objectives.

Through expert-designed courses and certifications led by renowned practitioners, our programs move beyond theories to deliver hands-on capabilities applicable to careers in business, government, civil society, and media.

By making geopolitical training more accessible, the Institute aims to cultivate strategic thinking and foresight across professions so that decision-makers can navigate uncertainty and evaluate opportunities that further stability, sustainability, and progress.
  • Master the Art of Geopolitical Analysis
  • Boost Your Career with Expert Training
  • Learn from Renowned Practitioners
  • Become a Leader in Geopolitical Insight
  • Join a Community of Strategic Thinkers

Strategic Vision

The Institute for Applied Geopolitics envisions a world where leaders, analysts, and decision-makers across all sectors are equipped with advanced geopolitical analysis skills to navigate global complexity with confidence and foresight. We are dedicated to transforming how individuals and organizations understand and engage with global dynamics through cutting-edge training that bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application.

We achieve this by:

  • Delivering premier education that combines academic rigor with real-world application
  • Bringing together distinguished practitioners and thought leaders to advance strategic excellence
  • Creating a global community of excellence in applied geopolitical analysis
  • Making advanced geopolitical training accessible to diverse audiences – from seasoned executives to emerging analysts
  • Fostering analytical capabilities that drive informed decision-making in an uncertain world


Our programs serve:

  • Business leaders seeking strategic advantage
  • Government analysts advancing national interests
  • Investors navigating global markets
  • International affairs professionals
  • Policy advisors and consultants
  • Students pursuing expertise in global affairs
  • Engaged individuals passionate about understanding global dynamics

Through our innovative courses and programs, we prepare participants to not only understand global forces but to effectively navigate them, whether in the boardroom, government service, or their personal pursuit of knowledge.

The IAG Commitment

At the Institute for Applied Geopolitics, we are uncompromising in our commitment to excellence. Our reputation is built on delivering superior educational and advisory services that transform how professionals understand and navigate global complexity.

Our Promise to You

We stand behind the quality of our programs with an unwavering commitment to:

Excellence
  • World-class instruction from distinguished practitioners
  • Cutting-edge analytical frameworks and methodologies
  • Rigorous standards in course development and delivery
  • Continuous program enhancement and updating
Results
  • Practical skills you can apply immediately
  • Measurable improvement in analytical capabilities
  • Tangible professional development outcomes
  • Real-world impact on decision-making
Support
  • Dedicated professional support throughout your journey
  • Direct access to faculty and expert advisors
  • Comprehensive resources and tools
  • Responsive administrative assistance

Nonpartisan and Independent

At the Institute for Applied Geopolitics, we believe meaningful learning happens when diverse perspectives are welcomed and critical thinking is encouraged. We are proudly independent and nonpartisan, with no ties to political parties or ideological agendas.
Our programs are built on a foundation of academic freedom, open inquiry, and intellectual integrity. We invite learners to explore complex global issues from multiple angles and develop their own informed, objective analysis. In a world often shaped by bias, we’re committed to providing a space where clarity, credibility, and balanced understanding come first.
The views expressed by IAG faculty, guest instructors, podcast participants, or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Institute for Applied Geopolitics or its founders. While we value the exchange of diverse perspectives, IAG remains firmly committed to nonpartisan education and objective analysis.

Our Quality Guarantee

We are so confident in the value of our programs that we offer a Quality Assurance Guarantee:

For Professional Courses:
If you complete all course requirements and are not satisfied with the quality of instruction or practical value, we will work with you to either:
  • Retake the course at no additional cost
  • Receive additional one-on-one coaching
For Corporate Training:
We guarantee that our customized training programs will meet the agreed-upon objectives and deliverables. If we fall short, we will:
  • Provide additional training sessions at no cost
  • Adjust the program to better meet your needs
  • Continue working with your team until objectives are met

Continuing Excellence

Our commitment extends beyond course completion:
  • Regular updates on emerging trends and methodologies
  • Access to alumni networks and professional communities
  • Ongoing professional development opportunities
  • Continuous program enhancement based on participant feedback

Measuring Our Success

We measure our success through:
  • Participant success stories
  • Professional advancement of our alumni
  • Long-term client relationships
  • Impact on organizational capabilitiesIndustry recognition and reputation
Your success is our success. When you choose IAG, you're choosing a partner committed to your professional excellence in applied geopolitical analysis. Contact us to learn more.

Leadership Team

STEVEN SMITH, PhD
Founding Faculty & Executive Director
Steven Smith serves as Executive Director of the Institute for Applied Geopolitics (IAG), bringing over 25 years of experience spanning academia, industry, and global consulting. His expertise in integrating geopolitical analysis with strategic planning has established him as a thought leader in helping organizations navigate global challenges.

Throughout his career, Dr. Smith has built a comprehensive understanding of global markets and geopolitical dynamics through roles in both corporate and academic environments. His experience includes engineering and management positions at Procter & Gamble and PepsiCo, as well as faculty appointments at institutions including Rutgers University, Columbia University, University of New Orleans, and Florida Atlantic University. 

Currently, Dr. Smith also holds the position of Professor and Chair of the Department of Business at The University of Olivet in Michigan, where he is directing the development of the first MBA in Geopolitical Risk Management in the United States. This program will bridge the gap between traditional business education and the domain of geopolitical analysis.

As a strategic advisor, Dr. Smith has consulted with Fortune 500 companies across multiple industries, helping organizations navigate strategic and geopolitical challenges and optimize their global operations. His analytical framework integrates political, economic, and cultural dimensions to provide insights into emerging market opportunities and risks.

Dr. Smith's commitment to advancing geopolitical education led him to develop innovative training programs, including co-founding the Certificate in Geopolitical Analysis program at Florida Atlantic University. Through IAG, he continues to advance cutting-edge geopolitical intelligence training for professionals worldwide, helping organizations build essential analytical capabilities.

Dr. Smith has lectured across six continents, addressing audiences ranging from university students to corporate executives. He holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, MBA, and Ph.D. in Strategy and International Business from Rutgers University, credentials that underpin his multifaceted approach to analyzing today's global environment.

Under his leadership, IAG will advance the understanding of geopolitical dynamics, providing analysts and decision-makers with the tools and insights needed to navigate international challenges and identify emerging opportunities.
Deborah Allen, MBA
Founding Partner & Chief of Staff
Deborah Allen serves as the Chief of Staff at the Institute for Applied Geopolitics (IAG), bringing extensive expertise in operations, finance, and business development. With over 15 years of experience spanning corporate and startup environments, Deborah has a proven track record of streamlining processes, implementing innovative solutions, and driving sustainable growth.

Throughout her career, Deborah has led strategic initiatives that optimized business operations, implemented new technologies, and enhanced team productivity. She has successfully driven financial turnarounds through improved reporting and process efficiencies while overseeing key business functions, including accounting, marketing, and business development. Her entrepreneurial experience includes managing financial operations, identifying growth opportunities, and crafting effective marketing strategies to achieve consistent year-over-year growth.

Deborah holds an Executive MBA from Florida Atlantic University and a BSBA in Accounting from the University of Arkansas. With her strategic mindset and commitment to excellence, she is dedicated to empowering organizations and teams to achieve long-term success.

At IAG, Deborah applies her leadership and operational expertise to support the institute’s mission of equipping the next generation of geopolitical leaders with the skills and knowledge to excel in a complex global landscape.
Nich Fairbanks, MPA
Director of Business Development & Enrollment
Nich Fairbanks is the Director of Business Development and Enrollment at IAG, where he connects individuals and organizations with valuable geopolitical analysis education, training, and consulting services. Nich brings over 15 years of experience in sales, service, and management, with a proven track record of success in the telecommunications industry. He is passionate about building strong client relationships and developing tailored solutions to meet their unique needs.

Prior to joining IAG, Nich honed his leadership skills managing teams, both in-person and virtually, while overseeing one of the busiest telecommunications locations in South Florida. His commitment to employee development has resulted in numerous team members achieving promotions and career growth under his guidance.

Nich's expertise is complemented by a strong academic background, including a Master of Public Administration from Purdue Global, a certificate in Geopolitical Analysis from Florida Atlantic University, and a BS from Northern Illinois University. During his undergraduate studies, Nich furthered his understanding of Middle Eastern relations and politics through a study abroad program in Amman, Jordan.

Nich's dedication to client success and his passion for geopolitical analysis helps him support IAG's mission to empower through training and education.

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