During 40 hours of classroom instruction and a 35 hour field-based practicum, students research the feasibility of a business idea of their choice and produce a business plan. At the end of the course, students present their business plans to a panel of business men and women from the community in a "best" business plan contest for honors and awards.
The course curriculum includes:
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What is entrepreneurship?
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Characteristics of a successful entrepreneur.
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Rewards and challenges of entrepreneurship.
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The importance of entrepreneurs in the American economy.
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Supply and demand forces in the economy.
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How to select a business.
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How a successful business satisfies a consumer need.
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Market research - knowing potential customers and what they want.
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The essence of selling is teaching.
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Hiring, training, and retaining good employees.
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Understanding business costs.
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How to set up, monitor, and use financial records and information.
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Financing strategy: Borrow and Sell?
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Raising capital for a business.
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Developing a business plan.
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Business ethics and social responsibility.
