Course Description

This course will explore both the mindset of entrepreneurship and develop basic

tools necessary to engage the world in an entrepreneurial fashion within the for-profit

and non-profit sectors.

In the first part of the course, students will analyze and present a business of their

choice as a case study on business design. Through special guest lectures, readings and

independent research, students will acquire 1) knowledge of the basic structure of a

business plan and the key components of a business at an early stage, 2) a design

perspective on ways to incubate, initiate and sustain a business venture, and 3) the

opportunity to conduct preliminary research on an entrepreneurial idea. The chosen

case study should provide inspiration and understanding of a business to be designed.

Students will be expected to deliver a written and oral presentation on their case study.

The second part of the course builds upon the first by challenging students to

design a business in the form of a business plan. After deciding upon an entrepreneurial

idea, each student will be matched with a professional mentor who will serve as a guide

and meet with the student as needed. Students will also receive feedback on the

progress of their business plans through periodic in-class presentations and workshops.

Guest lectures from local entrepreneurs and readings will provide specific business

examples, as well as broader insight into leadership and ways of organizing and managing

people. Students will be expected to deliver a written and oral presentation of their

business plan.

Requirements

Your grade will be based on three elements, 1) the case study (25%), 2) the business plan (60%), and 3) class participation (15%).

Readings

The primary text for the class will be The Entrepreneurial Venture. Supplementary readings will be posted on Collab.