Entrepreneurship Everywhere

Sample Entrepreneurship Education
Programs in the United States

OHIO

ACEnet Food Ventures

Jeanne Donado, Food Ventures Coordinator
Appalachian Center for Economic Development (ACEnet)
94 Columbus Road
Athens, OH 45701
Telephone: 740-592-3854
Fax: 740-593-5451
Email: jeanned@acenetworks.org
Web site: www.seorf.ohiou.edu/~acenet

Focus: Adult entrepreneurs and potential business owners.

Geographic Area:Southeastern Ohio; some West Virginia and Kentucky

Products and Services:Small business assistance, specialty food product development and marketing, Community Kitchen Incubator food production facility.

Age Level: Adults of all ages.

Key Partners: Appalachian People's Action Coalition, Athens Chamber of Commerce, Athens County Department of Human Services, Community Food Initiatives, Enterprise Development Corporation, Hocking College, Rural Action, SBDC of Southeast Ohio.

Abstract: The Appalachian Center for Economic Networks (ACEnet) is a community economic development organization that focuses on building a healthy regional economy. Our efforts involve creating increased opportunities for both business ownership and employment in expanding firms. To achieve these goals, ACEnet works to strengthen the network of relationships in the local area, so that organizations and agencies can work more collaboratively and are more focused on access to opportunities for people living in poverty. Our long-term objective is for people with low incomes to enter the economic mainstream through either employment or business ownership.

ACEnet’s Food Ventures Program/Community Kitchen Incubator is a sector-based development program that helps residents of southeastern Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky start and expand specialty food businesses. Food Ventures has worked with more than 130 businesses since 1993, and provides the following services:

• Market development
• Product development
• Specialty food processing technical assistance
• Business development and networking
• Financial planning
• Access to expansion capital
• Management training and workforce development
• Computer technology training and access
• Specialty food retail shop
• Licensed commercial food production area, storage, shipping, office rental and support, conference room, resource library

ACEnet - The Student Entrepreneurship Training (SET) Program

ARC Springboard Award Winner - 2002

Iain Miller, Coordinator
ACEnet
94 Columbus Road
Athens OH 45701
740-592-3854
Fax: 740-593-5451
Email: imiller@acenetworks.org
Web site: www.acenetworks.org

Focus: Rural development through entrepreneurship education

Abstract: The Student Entrepreneur Training (SET) Program is a project conceived and designed by the Technology Ventures Division of ACEnet, Inc., which next year will be taught in 20 area high schools in several rural counties in Appalachian Ohio. As part of the agreement with the schools, we provide 16 new computers and peripheral devices for each school. We install on these computers popular professional level graphics design, Web design and Microsoft® Office Suite software for students to use during the course.

The program provides high school students with the knowledge and skills to plan, develop, and start their own businesses. The curriculum is designed to maximize student collaboration, problem solving, as well as critical and creative thinking in a constructivist-learning environment. The latest technology is infused throughout the curriculum, providing students with a competitive edge in today's high-tech economy. We provide extensive training and support for teachers and students.

In the SET program, students initially work in teams to develop a mock business. They work through all aspects of creating a functioning business: determining legal structure, writing a mission statement, designing marketing materials (logo, flyer, business cards, Website), and calculating business financials. All of this will be compiled into a business plan. In the second half of the school year students will build on these skills to develop their own functional businesses. The intention is for their businesses to be up and running, generating income by the end of the school year.

The lessons within the SET curriculum were designed to be student-centered. The teacher assumes the role of guide or facilitator, helping students come to their own understanding of entrepreneurship. The curriculum is constructivist and experiential in nature and project-based, with long and short-term projects going on throughout the course. Students create their own understanding of entrepreneurship by participation in a range of business activities and projects. The projects are organized on the Learning Cycle model. The cycle is based in experience, utilizes reflection and then application in a continual cyclic process.

Adams County/Ohio Valley School District

Russ Brewer, Coordinator
ENTERPRISE Workshop
Adams County/Ohio Valley School District
175 Lloyd Road
West Union OH 45693
937-544-5586

Focus: A two-day camp-type workshop to teach about entrepreneurship

Geographic Area: Schools in Adams County

Age Level:High school students

Key Partners: School-to-Work grant, Adams County Job and Family Services, Walmart, and the county Chamber of Commerce.

Abstract: Starting in 1999, students from the local schools have had the opportunity to attend the ENTERPRISE Workshop, held for two days at the Shawnee Lodge, a state park in Ohio. Students work in teams to choose a business that they think will be successful, develop a business plan, and work together to develop their idea. On the second day they make presentations on their idea and prizes are awarded. To date, one hundred and sixty students have participated and some have even started their own businesses.

Adams County/Ohio Valley Business & Education Forum

Elaine Collins
Adams County/Ohio Valley Business & Education Forum
215 N. Cross Str., Room 106
West Union OH 45693
937-544-5151

Focus: Junior Achievement programs for fifth and fourth grade students

Geographic Area:Adams County

Age Level:Elementary school children

Key Partners:Junior Achievement of Central Ohio, the Adams County Business and Education FORUM (a group of business, civic, and educational representatives working for the betterment of the community), Adams County Manufacturers Council, Adams County Chamber of Commerce, Adams County Economic Development Council, and the Adams County Department of Job and Family Services.

Abstract: Working with the Junior Achievement Appalachia Initiative, the Adams County Business and Education Forum located local business leaders to serve as consultants in each of the county's nineteen fifth grade classrooms. The fifth grade program, entitled Our Nation provided student activity materials for operating a business in the US economy, including management, marketing, production, and sales presentations. In the first year 431 students were involved in the program. Based on its success the program was expanded to include fourth graders with the Junior Achievement program entitled Our Region. This program provides practical information about natural, human, and capital resources found in regions and used by businesses to produce goods and services. There were 854 students served in the second year.

The collaboration between business, civic and education sectors has not only contributed to the program's success but has established a cohesive community support network that is tackling other programs aimed at improving education and preparing students for the word of work.

Byesville Area Entrepreneur Development Partnership

David Cater, Project Coordinator and Executive Director
Byesville Area Community Development Corporation
P.O. Box 268
Byesville, OH 43723
740-685-8625
Email: page@byesville.net
Web site: Under development

Abstract: Our purpose is to foster entrepreneur opportunities and lower unemployment by creating partnerships that link area business and industry, educational institutions, students, teachers, and community leaders.

Key Elements:

• Small business loans ($500 to $2,000 each), barter system can be used, requires 100% match, so a $2,000 loan injects $4,000 and even more when money is spent locally
• Sponsor entrepreneur development projects designed by teachers
• Six student scholarships were just awarded for 1999 graduates
• Small Business Education and Resource Center, counseling for small business entrepreneurs, free Internet access, business plans, brochures, flyers, and business cards.
• Business and Services Directory—a very nice leather-bound resource
• Small Business Workshops—by design, but also using the "Same Table Concept"—let entrepreneurs and students observe and share during valuable meetings already scheduled for day-to-day business and community activities.
• Mentorship and Observational Program for Students
• Partnerships—For example, Mid-East Ohio Vocational School's Small Business Management Program and the Byesville Area Board of Trade/Community Development Corporation—we provide them with free office space and work together on the big picture just as if we were the same entity.
• The Entrepreneur Newsletter
• Education, public relations, press releases, newspaper columns, radio announcing—get the word out and inform
• Small Business Expo—live, remote—allowed entrepreneurs to do live interviews about their business and/or services.
• 12-member advisory council meets at local high school to oversee grant objectives and approve teacher projects, loans, and scholarships (includes 4 students, 3 teachers, 2 bank managers, Guernsey County Department of Human Services executive director, Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center rep, social worker from Guernsey County Department of Human Services, and village councilperson).

Special Note: Each objective of our project complements the other with the big picture in mind; but best of all, the project is working.

Columbia County Career Center

Entrepreneur Training and Support
Bruce Balogh, Adult Education Director
9364 State Route 45
Lisbon, OH 44432
330-424-9561
330-424-4046

Focus: All current and potential entrepreneurs seeking to transform concepts and ideas into profits and job creation.

Geographic Area: Columbiana County, Carroll County, Jefferson County, and Mahoning County.

Products and Services: NxLeveL Classroom training, financial contacts, personal consulting, scholarships available.

Key Supporting Partners: Appalachian Regional Commission, county commissioners, Department of Human Services, Bureau of Employment Services, Family Recovery, MCTA, Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, Community Action Agency

Key Participating Partners: Small Business Development Centers, Enterprise Development Corporation, Consumers Bank, Small Business Administration, Steel Valley Bank, First National Community Bank.

Abstract: NxLeveL is a national entrepreneur program that was developed at the University of Colorado. It is funded by the U.S. West Foundation. The NxLeveL program was brought to Ohio by the Ohio Department of Development, and the career center was then certified as a training site, forming a partnership with the Department of Development. The real bonus is that our NxLeveL graduates can go to any of the Small Business Development Centers in the state and use their expertise and assistance.

There are two levels within the NxLeveL program. The first is geared toward the entrepreneur wishing to develop a small business. Particular emphasis is given to the development of a business plan. Business ideas and concepts are tested through the formalization of an individual business plan. The second level of the program works closely with those participants who have already established a business. If necessary, business plans are adjusted.

Classroom materials dealing with taxes, insurance, finances, advertising, and pricing are taught in both levels of the NxLeveL program. Both NxLevel programs offer individualized consultation and assistance by instructors.

Columbus State Community College
Entrepreneur Workforce

Angelo J Frole, Administrator
Columbus State Community College
550 E. Spring St.
Columbus, OH 43216
614-287-5020
Email: afrole@cscc.edu
Web site: http://www.cscc.edu

Focus: Credit and non-credit courses supporting entrepreneurship and small business

Geographic Area: Central Ohio

Products and Services: Providing general non-credit courses for microenterprises. Directing students to degree-granting programs.

Age Level: K–12 and adults

Key Partners: Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce SBDC, EnterpriseWorks, Ohio Business Week, Junior Achievement

Abstract: A department in the Community Education and Workforce Development Division of Columbus State Community College, Entrepreneur Workforce, develops programs with local, state, and federal agencies and their affiliates to promote entrepreneurship throughout the central Ohio region.

Entrepreneur Workforce is devoted to providing basic and advanced training for beginning and existing businesses. The focus of the department is to meet the evolving role of microenterprise. In cooperation with the other departments within the Community Education and Workforce Development Division, a new mobile lab is planned to enable courses to be taken directly to the small business owner. Courses have been developed to offer the most in diversity to our customers. This includes Internet courses, video-driven courses, telecourses, and individualized study.

Programs include: "Exploring Small Business" seminar through EnterpriseWorks; "If I Had a Hammer," in cooperation with Home Depot; and e-commerce classes through Dayton Electronic Commerce Resource Center. Additional programs cover topics such as basic entrepreneurial concepts, funding opportunities, and discussions on trends and tactics in small business. This department also administers the A. Robert Kent Real Estate Resource Center.

EnterpriseWorks
Self Employment Issues for People With Disabilities

Deborah North, Executive Director
EnterpriseWorks
88 East Broad Street Suite 1770
Columbus OH 43215
614-460-6193
Fax: 614-621-9222

Focus: Private, not-for-profit; focusing on people with disabilities, minorities, and women

Abstract: EnterpriseWorks has over 10 years' experience in partnering with community and educational organizations to assist people with disabilities in considering entrepreneurship as a career goal. In this program, we explore increased opportunities and address specific issues for people with disabilities and communicate how we have been able to successfully adapt the EnterpriseWorks model to assist other under-served populations.

Ask about the results of our recent study of the top microenterprises to start, and address the challenge of finding business opportunities in rural areas. An overview of the EnterpriseWorks training model and assessment materials is available.

Deborah North is the executive director of EnterpriseWorks, a statewide microenterprise training program specializing in self-assessment, business development, and technical assistance. EnterpriseWorks was founded as Project BO$$ in 1989 and has expanded to ten offices, serving the entire state of Ohio.

Foothills School of American Crafts

Aaron Smith, Executive Director
Foothills School of American Crafts
The Acorn Gallery
95 Public Square
Nelsonville OH 45764
740-753-4189
Fax: 740-753-2408
Email: fhs@frognet.net
Web site: www.foothillsartworks.com

Focus: Encouraging student artists and selling their work

Geographic Area: Nelsonville area

Age Level: High school students

Key Partners: The Foothills School ( a non-profit organization promoting local art), Athens County Library Service, high school art teachers, and Lamborn's Studio and Framing.

Abstract: The Acorn Gallery is so named because the Foothills School of American Crafts wishes to encourage the students who are the seeds of economic development through the arts in the area. They work with high school art teachers to identify the best student art, help students exhibit it at the libraries, and sell it. Teachers use this gallery show to add several aspects of "the business of selling art" to their curricula.

Foundation for Appalachian Ohio

Leslie Lilly, President and CEO
Foundation for Appalachian Ohio
36 Public Square, PO Box 456
Nelsonville, Ohio 45764
Telephone: (740)-753-1111
Fax: (740)-753-3333
E-mail: llilly@ffao.org
Website: www.appalachianohio.org

Focus: Build dynamic local economies, provide support for delivery of technical and business assistance to emerging entrepreneurs, and increase collaboration among public and private sector partners to improve the economy of Appalachian Ohio.

Geographical Area: Region-wide; a 29-county area in Ohio that is a part of a larger, 13 state region of the United States federally-designated as Appalachia.

Products and Services: The Foundation's work focuses on economic and community development in Appalachian Ohio that promotes entrepreneurship at multiple levels, including: access to capital and financial assistance, technical and managerial assistance, technology transfer entrepreneurial education and training, entrepreneurial networks, workforce training and development, transforming recruitment patterns and training practices, establishing new businesses in economically distressed communities, developing avenues for business ownership among low income individuals, and developing new markets for an industry that creates jobs in low income and economically distressed areas.

Age Level: Future workforce, current workforce, returning to workforce

Key Partners: Ohio Department of Development, Ohio Arts Council

Abstract: In Ohio, the recognition of the state's philanthropy “gap” in its poorest rural communities generated an unprecedented commitment of public and private dollars to build sources of charitable capital in Appalachian Ohio. This 29-county region is home to 12% of the state's population but holds less than 2% of the state's charitable assets. As a consequence, Appalachian Ohio has far fewer grant dollars invested in and leveraged for its communities than when compared to the state as a whole. The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO) is a regional community foundation founded in 1998 to address the needs of the state's most impoverished and underdeveloped rural communities.

The Foundation seeks to build a better future for the region by building charitable endowment for regional and local grantmaking. Our core business is helping donors to achieve their charitable goals and connecting people who care with legacies that matter in Appalachian Ohio. As a trusted steward of charitable gifts, the Foundation is a regional vehicle through which permanent, charitable endowment is being attracted, invested, and used for good, forever, in Appalachian Ohio.

The Foundation's goals in economic and community development are to help foster and encourage interventions in Appalachian Ohio's economy that build on unique, regional economic opportunities. In Appalachian Ohio, “home-grown” businesses help create or retain jobs, increase individual assets, and strengthen local economies. To be successful regionwide in promoting entrepreneurship, the growth of the region's small businesses requires activities and strategies that support an entrepreneurial economy. The Foundation's priorities for the promotion of entrepreneurship include the following areas of activity:

• Heritage tourism
• Arts and craft cottage industries that focus on production of handmade objects
• Outdoor and recreational enterprises
• Production and marketing of specialty foods
• Value-added agricultural enterprises
• Horticultural enterprises
• Healthcare and human services
• Information and technology businesses and services.

Harrison Hills Cottage Industries

Nately Ronsheim, President
Andrew Hutyera, Executive Director
142 East Warren St.
Cadiz, OH 43907
740-942-2582
Email: andy@eohio.net
Website: www.cottagefolkcrafts.org

Focus: To provide educational and marketing support to area artisans producing quality hand crafted works of folk art.

Geographic Area: Harrison County, Ohio and southeastern Ohio counties of Appalachia.

Products and Services: Educational programs in the graphic, textile, ceramic and woodworking arts and marketing service and assistance to producing artisans.

Age Level: High school through adult.

Key Partners: Appalachian Regional Development Commission, the Presbyterian Church (USA) Fund for the Self Developlment of Peoples, Ohio Arts Council and the Governor's Office of Applachia.

Abstract: Harrison Hills Cottage Industries (HHCI), was developed in response to the collapse of the coal mining industry in Harrison County, the only significant source of employment in the area. With loss of employment by family bread winners, many local artisans sought a way to market their art, teach it to others and to share ideas. HHCI was developed as a vehicle to meet these needs.

HHCI currently operates a facility in Cadiz, Ohio were local folk art is marketed through its retail store, web site, trade shows and other marketing methods. In addition, participating artisans teach their crafts to others by presenting small classes and by cooperating with the industrial arts program in the local school district. It is an entirely volunteer organization with minimal paid staff and is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax exempt entity. HHCI has as one of its major goals to encourage state government support for the marketing of the works of Ohio artisans in facilities operated by the state.

Hocking College
Fish Farming in Small Impoundments

Roy Palmer, Ph.D., Vice President for Development
Hocking College
3301 Hocking Parkway
Nelsonville, OH 45764
740-753-3591, ext. 2107
Fax: 740-753-
Email: palmer_r@hocking.edu
Web site: http://www.hocking.edu

Focus: Prepare regional entrepreneurs to use the most recent technology and research for raising fish in small water sources, either for food or recreational markets.

Geographic Area: Throughout the 29 Appalachian Regional Commission counties of Ohio, including Athens, Meigs, Gallia, Morgan, Vinton, Hocking and Perry.

Products and Services: Provide skills that will enable fish to be raised in existing small water resources for food and recreation. The formation of business cooperatives will be encouraged to assist with marketing fish to larger markets that are beyond the scope of an individual.

Age Level: Anyone who is interested

Key Partners: Appalachian Regional Commission, Ohio Bed and Breakfast Association, ACEnet, Community Food Initiatives (Athens).

Abstract: Readily available water sources are plentiful throughout the Appalachian region - farm ponds, gravel pits, strip mine impoundments and private ponds and/or lakes - provide ideal sources for raising fish in cages. Data indicate the demand for fish (either for the table or for sport) outnumbers what is being produced and fish farming offers income and employment opportunities.

By utilizing the fish hatchery at Lake Snowden Education and Recreation Center (owned by Hocking College) specialized courses taught by experts will provide skills and knowledge for successful fish farming ventures. Hand-constructed cages built specifically for this use and to accommodate conditions of each individual water source make raising fish to the desired market size easier. Cage culture equipment and techniques offer the flexibility to be adaptable to species variations as well as water sources.

Junior Achievement of Stark Co, Inc.

Jody Levitt, President
Junior Achievement of Stark Co, Inc.
1225 South Main Str., Ste. E
North Canton OH 44720
330-433-0063
Fax: 330-433-0287
Email: staff@jaonline.org

Focus: Understanding of the free enterprise system

Geographic Area: Stark, Tuscarawas and Carroll Counties

Age Level: K - 12 classrooms

Key Partners: Area businesses and local school districts

Abstract: Junior Achievement of Stark, Tuscarawas, and Carroll Counties was chartered in 1953, and has grown significantly in the last 10 years, reaching over 10,000 students in 21 school districts and 11 parochial schools. JA presents 5 to 12 week programs in K - 12 grades. While bringing the free enterprise system to life in the classroom, the programs also demonstrate to young people the importance of staying in school.

The elementary school programs teach students about their role as individual, worker, and consumer in society. The middle school programs help students learn about personal and family financial management, the importance of staying in school, and career choices. The high school curriculum teaches students about economics, both on national and international levels. These students walk away with the ability to analyze situations, apply information, and make decisions about the world around them

Junior Achievement
The Appalachia Initiative

Suzie Childs, Senior Vice President
Junior Achievement of Central Ohio, Inc.
1328 Dublin Road, Suite 301
Columbus, OH 43215
614-488-5373, Toll-free: 1-877-JA KIDS 1 or 525-4371
Fax: 614-488-7078
Email: Jacentraloh@worldnet.att.net

Focus: Teaching "Our Nation" entrepreneurship program of Junior Achievement

Geographic Area: All 29 counties of Appalachian Ohio

Products and Services: Age-appropriate, hands-on, activity-based classroom teaching materials regularly evaluated and updated by the Western Institute for Research and Evaluation for National Junior Achievement

Age Level: All fifth-grade students

Key Partners: Governor's Office of Appalachia, State School-to-Work, Columbus Rotary–Rotary 6690, Region 7 School-to-Work, Region 11 School-to-Work, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Ohio's Appalachian Local Development Districts: Buckeye Hills–HVRDD, OMEGA, OVRDC and Junior Achievement

Abstract: The goal of the Appalachia Initiative is to teach the basics of business to all fifth-grade students in Appalachian Ohio using Junior Achievement's "Our Nation" entrepreneurship materials. Junior Achievement incorporates a role model adult (business consultant), to partner with the classroom teacher to teach the five 30–45 minute lessons. Educators' buy-in secured because the materials are supplemental support to the citizenship strand of the Ohio Department of Education's proficiency tests. Program implemented at time requested by schools. Local liaisons or JA staff, with the help of the Chamber, school/business advisories, teachers, or local businesses recruit the business partner to be the volunteer classroom instructor. An orientation detailing the accountabilities of the teacher and consultant with an overview of the materials is given to the partners by JA staff. Business consultant requested to observe the classroom environment prior to beginning the program.

All lesson plans are all prescribed with hands-on activities, pre- and post-program survey, interdisciplinary activities, student workbooks, teacher/consultant guides, and certificates of graduation included. Student, teacher, and consultant evaluations emphasized.

Ultimate outcome: Success of Initiative in fifth grade has motivated school requests for additional programs. Organization of local concerned citizens as a board of directors or committees focusing on raising "funds and friends" to continue Junior Achievement supplemental programs of economic education is in process. Programs are available for K through 12, including an at-risk program, all using the unique Junior Achievement partnership style of teaching. Free enterprise is taught by role models relating to children who learn by doing. We take pride in teaching kids how America works!

Lake Ridge Academy
The Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurial Studies

Michael M. Shaulis, Director of Entrepreneurial Studies
Lake Ridge Academy
37501 Center Ridge Road
North Ridgeville, OH 44039
440-327-1175
Fax 440-353-0324
Email: shaulism@lakeridgeacademy.org

Focus: A two-year course of study of entrepreneurship

Geographic Area: Lorain County and western Cuyahoga County

Age Level: High School juniors and seniors

Abstract: The Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurial Studies at Lake Ridge Academy involves students at Lake Ridge in a new way of doing things and a new way of seeing things. The intent is to tap into that entrepreneurial spirit that lives in us all, and, as Merlyn instructs Wart in The Sword in the Stone, to learn "why the world wags and what wags it." The Entrepreneurial Studies Program prepares students for the global society by focusing on globalization and by providing them with an understanding of the concept and theory of economics and business practices.

The Program provides students the opportunity to learn the basic principles of the free enterprise system, to acquire outstanding leadership and communication skills, and to meet the unique challenges of a rapidly evolving world. Designed to augment the coursework required for graduation at Lake Ridge Academy with an extensive exploration of the principles of entrepreneurship, the Program combines coursework with experiential learning through cutting-edge technology and significant community outreach.

Students enrolled in the Program are required to take the following seven (7) courses, each one semester long, during their junior and senior year.

1. Introduction to Entrepreneurial Studies
2. Entrepreneurial Seminar
3. Entrepreneurial Projects
4. One (1) of the following Business Electives: Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, International Business and Marketing, Principles of Finance and Investment (Students will have the option of taking both economics courses and sitting for the AP exam in the spring.)
5. Philosophy: Ethical Studies
6. Business Communication
7. Global Politics

NxLeveL: Taking Small Business to the Limit

Jackie LeBerth, Manager
Small Business Solutions Center
Enterprise Development Corporation
9030 Hocking Hills Drive
The Plains, OH 45780
740-797-9646
Fax: 740-797-9659

Focus: Provide training and technical assistance to potential, existing, and agricultural businesses in the eight Region 11 Appalachian Ohio Ccunties to meet the needs for training, business planning, marketing, and business computer skills.

Geographic Area: Eight Region 11 Appalachian Ohio counties

Products and Services: Provide training and technical assistance

Age Level: Business owners, especially low-income persons, women, and minorities.

Key Partners: Small Business Development Center

Abstract: Enterprise Development Corporation is a private not-for-profit headquartered in the Plains, Ohio, and serving the 30 Appalachian Ohio counties. The organization’s mission is "to enhance economic development through financial technical and educational assistance for microbusinesses, especially those owned by low-income persons, women, and minorities."

EDC is home to a Small Business Development Center that directly serves the needs of Athens and Perry County small businesses. Additional technical assistance as well as financing options are made available in all 30 Appalachian counties.

With a long-term commitment to nurturing small business in the region, Enterprise Development is focused on fostering economic development "one job at a time."

By design, the NxLeveL curriculum provides practical business skills training (including preparing a business plan), guidance in bookkeeping, marketing, financial projections, and negotiating with lenders in an adult-oriented program focused at the community level. "Experts" from the community will be invited to be guest speakers and share their experience and knowledge with students.

Enterprise Development plans to offer six training courses in 1999–2000: three for start-ups, two for existing businesses, and one agricultural program.

All courses are based on 12 sessions that individually include presentation by the instructor, expert guest speaker(s) from the community, and hands-on, in-class exercises. Students realize benefits not only from the presented material and the readings, but also from the interaction that takes place among participants.

During each course offering, students also will be introduced to business-oriented computer skills. Specifically, general computer use (usually word processing) will be taught along with computerized record keeping.

Ohio Business Week Foundation

Nancy A. Whetstone, Executive Director
Ohio Business Week Foundation
236 East Town Street, Suite 110
Columbus, Ohio 43215
614-280-0480
Toll Free: 888-377-7414
Fax: 614-280-0490
Email: info@ohiobusinessweek.org
Web site: www.ohiobusinessweek.org

Abstract: Celebrating its 15th anniversary, Ohio Business Week (OBW) is a six-day learning experience designed to teach high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors and educators about our American free enterprise system. OBW brings young people, educators and business professionals from across the state together to translate textbook theories into understandable business practices. Participants learn what it takes to be successful in the global marketplace.

Schedule for summer 2003:

• Week 1
  July 13-19, 2003
  The University of Findlay
  
• Week 2
  July 27-August 2, 2003
  Youngstown State University

With corporate accountability at the forefront of America's economic agenda, Ohio Business Week is committed to bring together students, educators and business people from across the state for an incredible hands-on experience with the free enterprise system. Our objective is to define, develop and hone the personal and professional skills necessary for success.

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the weeklong program focuses on the free enterprise system, business ethics, the social responsibility of businesses in the community and the translation of textbook theories into understandable practices.

At OBW 2002, nearly 240 students enhanced skills in areas such as accountability, collaboration, communication, time management, business ethics and leadership. The students worked together to accomplish tasks such as writing business, financial and marketing plans, and making ethical business decisions. OBW aides students in building character -- the cornerstone for success from the classroom to the boardroom.

Not only do students sharpen their business skills at OBW, but educators also have the unique opportunity to experience the world of free enterprise. We greatly appreciate the time and commitment from the educators and are grateful that they attended OBW 2002. Our goal is to have educators take what they have learned at our program and teach it in the classroom.

For the past 15 years, our volunteers and supporters have helped to strengthen the business skills of over 4,000 students and 300 educators. We appreciate the support of the companies, volunteers and individuals who have assisted us in preparing today's students for tomorrow's business world.

Ohio Council on Economic Education
The Ohio State University

Abbejean Kehler, President
CETE Building 1900 Kenny Road
Columbus, OH 43210
614-292-1178
Fax: 614-688-4667
Email: kehler.1@osu.edu
Web site: http://www.ocee.org

Focus: Advocacy of economic education, financial literacy and entrepreneurship education as a lifelong learning process in the United States, but particularly focused on K–12 teachers, students, and school districts.

Geographic Area: Ohio

Products and Services: Provision of professional development, curriculum, and instructional materials in the teaching of economic education and financial literacy especially.

Age Level: K–12 emphasis, some parent education and some adult education

Key Partners: State departments of education, and national/state/local organizations and agencies involved in entrepreneurship education and training; school districts and community businesses and leaders.

Abstract: The Ohio Council on Economic Education has been focused on delivery of economic education mainly through school curriculum, K–12. We are affiliated with the National Council on Economic Education, developer of the National Voluntary Standards in Economics. We comprise a network of nine university-based programs in Ohio, and thirty-seven school based programs providing outreach and educational services.

OCEE Vision
A nation of people who have the knowledge, understanding, and skills to make informed economic choices.

OCEE Mission Statement
The Ohio Council on Economic Education and its affiliated centers work to promote and increase economic understanding among the citizens of Ohio, primarily by assisting schools and teachers to develop reasoned economic choices and understand the world around them.

Economic Education Advocates/Coordinators Mission Statement
The mission of the Ohio’s Economic Education Program is to prepare kindergarten through adult students to make reasoned and informed economic choices in their multiple roles of consumer, producer, and citizen in an increasingly global economy. The mission will be achieved in collaboration with education, business, and community representatives to develop the following:

• Consumer skills/Economic Understanding—Skills related to individuals as consumer decision-makers to satisfy wants with limited resources including: how competition affects markets, role of government, role of business, interdisciplinary trade, and economic systems.
• Producer/Worker Knowledge—Knowledge of how individuals and business affect the economy’s goods and services, including analyzing skills to explain how trade-offs are involved in decisions to use production resources, land labor, capital, and entrepreneurship.
• Citizen Skills—Skills involving taxpayers and voters that directly and indirectly determine government spending and taxing and includes decision making, problem solving, and critical thinking on local economic, national, and global issues.

The Ohio State University - Consumer and Textile Sciences
Summer Youth Program

Bridgette Sloan, Extension Associate
Consumer & Textile Sciences
The Ohio State University
1787 Neil Avenue
262 C. Campbell Hall
Columbus OH 43210-1295
614-292-4359
Fax: 614-688-8133
Email: sloan.32@osu.edu

Focus: Elementary And Middle School Youth In The Community

Abstract: The neighborhood for this program was Weinland Park, an area to the south and east of OSU. Of the 2,257 households, 535 received public assistance in 1990; thus, many of these households are in the welfare-to-work population. About half of all households are female-headed families, and only 30 percent of the population above age 25 have a high school degree or equivalency. The 1990 census reported 17 percent of the population to be unemployed and just over half of the population to have incomes below the poverty level. Community meetings conducted as part of a Community Outreach Partnership Center project identified activities for young teens as a need in the community. This project addressed that need.

This was a five-week pilot program that focused on computer skill development, team building, problem solving, and introduction to business operations. A total of 23 youth ranging in age from 6 to 14 years and living in the Weinland Park Community took part in the summer program.

The specific application taught during the program was development of basic computer skills related to use of a high-tech embroidery sewing machine. Each participant learned to use the computer, linked a computer-generated design to the sewing machine software and operated the machine to execute a design on an article of clothing. In addition to designing and learning to use the machine, the participants developed a business name and logo and learned basic business skills.

During the five weeks, project leaders discussed various aspects of operation of a business that produces custom embroidered products. These discussions were designed to prompt their thinking about career possibilities and establishing a small business. Participants responded very positively to the idea of establishing a small business for young people in the neighborhood and pledged their continued participation.

An additional component of the program was a service project. The objective of this effort was to introduce the principle of investing or contributing to the neighborhood. The youth decided to design and "manufacture" t-shirts embroidered with the summer program logo and to give the t-shirts to children at the Homeless Families Foundation. The program was definitely a success. Participants attended regularly; they walked to the location (The Human Ecology House) each week and were ready to begin work. They were eager to continue with the program and have continued to ask when the program will start again.

Therefore, the next step is to establish youth in a small embroidery business in 2001. The objective is to build self-esteem, create enlarged views of possible careers and educational training, and develop problem solving, team-building and technical skills and knowledge of operating a business enterprise. Bridgette Sloan has served as Quality Assurance Supervisor for Distribution Fulfillment Services for the Spiegel/Eddie Bauer organization for three years. There she addressed product quality issues related to hard and soft lines and was liaison for Corporate Headquarters in Chicago and Seattle. She was an Adjunct Professor at the Ohio Dominican College, Columbus, Ohio for one year where she taught textiles and apparel courses. Since 1997 she has served as Program Manager for The Ohio State University Extension where she developed and coordinates the 4-H Master Clothing Volunteer Program as well as other projects in Consumer and Textile Sciences.

Ohio State University Extension
Beyond a Dream: Starting Your Own Small or Home-based Business

Cynthia (Cindy) R. Hoove, Assistant Professor
Ohio State University Extension Agent
Family and Consumer Sciences/Community Development
104 S. Columbus Street
P.O. Box 279
Somerset, Ohio 43783
740-743-1602 or 740-743-1406
Fax: 740-743-1215

Focus: Extension–dissemination of research-based information to community-based adult clientele

Geographic Area: Ohio

Products and Services: Workshops

Age Level: Adults

Abstract: Starting a small or home-based business might be rewarding, both personally and financially. In fact, there are more than 15 million home-based businesses in the United States. Over the past few years, businesses with fewer than 50 employees have accounted for almost two-thirds of new jobs, according to Dun and Bradstreet surveys (Small Business Success, Volume VII, 1994).

Although small-business development can be a successful economic development strategy because of the potential positive ramifications, research has documented that close to 60 percent of new businesses fail in the first five years of existence. First-time entrepreneurs seldom know every aspect about business management techniques, marketing, government regulations, and/or business plans.

Ohio State University Extension has developed the Beyond a Dream: Starting Your Own Small or Home-Based Business series. This series of specialized workshops—ranging from "Food Creations from the Home" to "Marketing Crafts" to "Food Concession Trailers"—help individuals develop their business "dreams into realities" by providing them with practical information on the fundamentals of starting their own business, including practical information on licenses, permits, regulations, record keeping, pricing, legal organization, marketing, the development of a business plan, and the effects of the business on the family.

The program addresses ways for families to strengthen their financial stability through small or home-based business development.

Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington Jr./Sr. High School

Winner of ARC Springboard Award - 2003

Douglas E Bahnsen, Instructor
FFA/Agriculture Education
Ripley-Union-Lewis-Huntington Jr./Sr. High School
1317 S. Second Street
Ripley OH 45167
937-392-4384
Fax: 937-392-7017
Email: bahnsend@ripley.k12.oh.us

Focus: Vocational agriculture program for high school students

Geographic Area: Ripley area

Age Level: Grades 9 - 12

Key Partners: Local businesses

Abstract: One of the primary focuses on entrepreneurship specific to the RUHL community over the past four years is the ability to find new opportunities to utilize the resources once used in tobacco production. The Ripley community is currently in the middle of an economic crisis in regard to income generated from the production and sale of tobacco. It is estimated that the loss of income from tobacco is over twenty million dollars a year, not counting the number of times that money circulates in the community.

The Ripley Union Lewis Huntington (RUHL) agriculture education program exposes all high school students to the entrepreneurship opportunities through the teaching of the competencies found in the curricula of both the AgriBusiness and the AgriScience programs. Over the past eight years it is estimated that over 500 students have had exposure to the production and marketing of hydroponically grown crops using locally available resources. The same information was also presented to over seventy-five adults in the community and over 150 agriculture education instructors throughout Ohio.

As with any change in a community that is deeply rooted and concentrated in a specific type of agriculture production, they feel it is going to take years to see appreciable differences. Concentrating the education to youth of the agriculture program will allow for more subtle changes that are beginning to be accepted as current agricultural practices.

The Small Business Development Centers of Ohio

Holly I. Schick, State Director
The Small Business Development Centers of Ohio
77 South High Street - 28th Floor
Columbus, OH 43216
800-848-1300/ 614-466-2711
Fax: 614-466-0829
Email: hschick@odod.ohio.gov
Web site: www.ohiosbdc.org

Focus: Assistance for small businesses in Ohio

Abstract: The Small Business Development Centers of Ohio (SBDC) Program was established in 1985 in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration's national program initiative. The program's mission is to identify a local organization which can, through this state and federal partnership build a local community's capacity to provide in-depth small business counseling and training and to foster a strong climate for small business growth.

To date, more than 50 community partnerships have been established creating a statewide-integrated system of small business service, advocacy and awareness. Today, these 50 partnerships contribute cash and in-kind resources (both public and private) which, when combined with the state and federal funding, create an annual investment of over $10 million in support of Ohio's small businesses.

Vision: The SBDC Program is a well-established, respected, diverse and capable statewide small business assistance network. To that end, the SBDC is positioned as the preeminent small business service provider in the State of Ohio that provides confidential, high-quality business counseling, education and information to its customers.

Mission: The mission of the SBDC is to lead, teach and serve Ohio small businesses in order to contribute to the growth and stability of Ohio's economy.

Key Initiatives of SBDC

• SBDC services: business and strategic planning, needs and risk analysis, business management practices, access to capital, pre-venture, start up and existing business clients. Delivered through one-on-one counseling, training, and mentoring.
  
• 1st Stop Business Connection: comprehensive start-up information, licensing and permits; more than 260 customized kits available.
  
• International Trade Assistance Centers: partnership with U.S. Dept. of Commerce and ODOD's International Trade Division; first point of contact for new to export small business, export readiness assessment, international marketing plans, and market research.
• Manufacturing, Defense and Technology Manufacturing Centers: The Ohio Manufacturing, Defense and Technology (OBDT-MSBDC) Program operates specialized centers that provide business management and marketing assistance to Ohio's small manufacturers, technology companies, and those firms being impacted by the defense industry downsizing. Operated in partnership with the Ohio Edison Technology Centers and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
• Procurement Technical Assistance Centers: helps businesses sell goods and services to local, state and federal government; specialized counseling on marketing, contract administration, technical and quality assurance assistance. In partnership with the Division of Minority Business Affairs.

Student Enterprise Program (StEP), University of Cincinnati

Val Krugh, PhD, Student Enterprise Program Director
Economics Center for Education & Research
Student Enterprise Program (StEP)
90 West Daniels
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0223
Telephone: 513-556-2949
Fax: 513-556-2953
Email: krughv@ucmail.uc.edu
Web site: www.economicscenter.org

Focus: Providing elementary grade students with practical skills and personal finance lessons that enhance students' decision-making abilities.

Geographic Area: Southwestern Ohio, Greater Cincinnati Metro Area

Age Level: Students in grades 3-6

Key Partners: University of Cincinnati, National Council on Economic Education, Ohio Council on Economic Education,

Abstract: Student Enterprise Program (StEP) engages students and teachers in the design and operation of a functioning market economy in their schools. In StEP, students create a miniature society that mirrors the "real world;" they form their own government, develop student-run businesses, earn, spend, save and invest school currency. StEP provides students with financial education, all while engaging them in the core academic curriculum. Over the years, the program has increased student attendance rates and raised achievement scores in over 25 schools.

StEP changes schooling from what is often a passive experience to one that gives the student responsibility and opportunity to make choices. The core academic curriculum in StEP schools is taught through practical experiences. In StEP, students are given a sense of purpose in school, a job and a feeling of accomplishment.

To date, StEP has been implemented in schools across Southwestern Ohio engaging every ethnic and socio-economic group. StEP is an investment in our future citizens. StEP emulates a world with a real possibility of success and empowers students to strive and achieve.

University of Cincinnati

Dr. Charles H. Matthews, Executive Director
Center for Entrepreneurship Education & Research
Carl H. Lindner Hall,
College of Business Administration,
University of Cincinnati,
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0165.
513-556-7123
Fax: 513-556-4891
Email: ecenter@uc.edu
Web site: www.cba.uc.edu/cbainfo/ecenter

Focus: University-based entrepreneurship program

Abstract: The U.C. Center for Entrepreneurship Education and Research, established in 1997, seeks to create a world-class center for entrepreneurship education, research, and service. The center's vision and mission is to provide a state-of-the-art entrepreneurship curriculum not only for potential entrepreneurs, but also for people in the many organizations that interact with small, entrepreneurial and family owned businesses on a daily basis. Located in the Department of Management in the CBA, the Entrepreneurship Center seeks collaborative efforts between students from across the University. The CBA offered its first entrepreneurship course in 1972, and founded the Goering Center for Family Business in 1987. In 2001, Success Magazine named U.C. one of the top 50 Entrepreneurship programs in the U.S.

Center research focuses on enhancing our understanding of entrepreneurial career choice, inclinations to launch new ventures, and practical suggestions to enhance firm survivability once launched. In addition, past research focuses on increasing international opportunities in emerging markets and U.C. is one of the founding members of the Entrepreneurship Research Consortium (ERC) dedicated to a longitudinal examination of new venture creation from nascency.

The Center's activities include:

1. a faculty-guided, student-based field case study program which provides consulting services for local businesses (Small Business Institute Program),
2. the Young Entrepreneurs Seminar (YES), a day-long event for high school seniors to meet and exchange ideas with local entrepreneurs,
3. the CBA MBA New Venture Business Plan Competition,
4. CEO Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization, and
5. the Cecil Boatright Business Plan Case Competition for undergraduate students (with a new competition in planning which will be open to students from four area universities).

In addition to the Center's activities, The U.C. Small Business Development Center offers six entrepreneurship and small business courses in the Communiversity Program. The College of Evening and Continuing Education offers a Small Business Management Certificate. The University is also affiliated with two local incubators, The Hamilton County Business Development Center and BioStart Technology Incubator.

The University of Cincinnati Center for Entrepreneurship Education and Research is actively engaged in developing a collaborative effort with other colleges of the University, such as Engineering, Medicine, Law, and Design, Art, Architecture, and Planning in order to advance the role of technology and entrepreneurship. Other future activities: development of high-tech commercialization with undergraduate student teams and courses for executive education.

Wright State University

Roger Sylvester, Director,
Center for Economic Education
Wright State University
3640 Colonel Glenn Hwy.
Dayton, OH 45435.
937-775-2115 or toll-free 1-877-978-3266.
Email: roger.sylvester@wright.edu
Web site: http://www.wright.edu/cee

Focus: Graduate Level Entrepreneurship Education for High School Teachers. The title of the course is ECO 516-07 Entrepreneurship: Starting a Business. Four credit hours of graduate credit will be awarded by Wright State University upon completion.

Geographic Area: Ohio

Age Level: High School Teachers

Abstract: This program is for high school teachers to discover an existing course developed with them in mind. It is an online course that is taught entirely using the Internet and email, and it was especially designed for high school teachers with busy schedules. The course consists of ten assignments to be completed over a ten-week quarter. Each lesson has one or more student-centered activities that reinforce the topic covered. The student activities are designed to be completed in 50-60 minutes. Answer keys are provided for teachers.

The high school teacher participant is directed to several websites per assignment covering the topic "Entrepreneurship: Starting a Business." The participant will then evaluate the material covered and the student related activities. The expected evaluation is generally 2-3 typed pages. A major plus for teachers is that they can work at their leisure since the Internet is available twenty-four hours per day. This course has been field tested by high school teachers in Ohio and Michigan and resulted in several important improvements. The field test was extremely valuable since the teachers provided critical evaluations from the professional user's point of view.

Youngstown State University
Revitalization of a Rustbelt Community

William G. Vendemia, Associate Professor of Management
Williamson College of Business Administration
Youngstown State University
One University Plaza
Youngstown, OH 44555
Phone: 330-742-3149 or 330-742-1785
Fax: 330-742-1459

Focus: Four-year colleges and universities establishing entrepreneurship centers

Abstract: The purpose of this program is to aid those colleges that are exploring the option of introducing a entrepreneurship center within a region that has faced economic hardship. While all university entrepreneurship centers serve as a heart of curriculum development efforts, and most serve as a resource to the local business community, it is the aim of our center to aid the revitalization of the regional economy.

Youngstown State University (YSU), a state university of approximately 12,500 students, is located in the Mahoning Valley in northeastern Ohio. Until the 1970s, the economy of the region was heavily dependent upon the steel industry. Then, in October 1977, the area's largest steel producer shut down. It has taken nearly 20 years for the economy to recover from this impact. The valley has rebuilt its economy through diversification in both the service and manufacturing sectors.

The valley is home to major international corporations such as GM-Lordstown, Delphi Packard Electric Systems, and Commercial Intertech, but the majority of the area's employment is in small and medium-sized companies in industries such as steel, metal fabrication, and aluminum extrusion. In the tri-county area that comprises the Mahoning Valley, there are over 16,000 businesses with fewer than 200 employees, and 15,446 businesses with less than $25 million in sales. A major goal of our center is aid this continuing revitalization.

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma State University

Glenn A Muske, Assistant Professor
Oklahoma State University
135 HES
Stillwater OK 74075
405-744-5776
Email: muske@okstate.edu

Focus: College or Technical/Community College

Abstract: The primary audience for this curriculum is students in their late teens and early 20s or in college or technical/community college. The curriculum focuses on the non-business student who either does not have time, cannot get into already full classes, or simply wants to explore what is involved in starting a business. The curriculum could be used in senior high schools or in adult education. Although developed for a one-hour credit course, it can easily be used in a non-credit manner also.

Today's college student, like the rest of society, has a desire to participate in the American dream of being his or her own boss. Entrepreneurship programs in business schools are seeing rapid and continued growth as students prepare for business ownership (Vesper & Gartner, 1997).

Yet the desire to own a business is not limited to only students in business schools. Stanforth and Muske (1999) found 83% of students in family and consumer sciences programs anticipated owning a business. These students have the skills and abilities that can be developed into a thriving business. Yet they also indicated a need for entrepreneurship training in order to increase their chances of success.

The purpose of the material is to help and encourage educators to introduce entrepreneurship concepts to students through a two-part series. Education has been linked to successful business development (Danco, 1994). This series of courses will provide a formal start in how to develop one's own business. Most small business owners start a business for reasons such as: independence/control; increased income opportunities; additional family or personal time; quality of life; or disillusionment with corporate America (Brabec, 1994; Buck, 1997). Students in non-business degrees are also motivated by such desires (Stanforth & Muske, 1999). Education can increase the likelihood of success. Yet often the non-business students often cannot get into entrepreneurship classes, even with their rapid expansion, because of space limitations and already full class schedules. It is important that students be given the chance to explore themselves as a business owner as part of their career development efforts.

With the significant expressed need for entrepreneurship education among non-business students, a Coleman grant proposal was funded to develop the two 1-credit course series, "An Exploration of Entrepreneurship." The first course, "Turning Your Passion Into a Career," explores the process of understanding the market, getting the business idea, honing that idea into a workable business, targeting a market, and then promoting the business.

The second course, "Making a Living from Your Passion," deals with the management and financial aspects of operating a business. It includes developing a business plan, business financing, pricing and record keeping.

The series is intended as an introduction to entrepreneurship. The two courses will introduce the student to crucial business concepts in a successful business. The courses have been geared towards the non-business student who may have not had accounting, marketing or management courses. Each course is a complete unit and includes lecture notes, PowerPoint slides, student workbooks, and activities.

OREGON

Lane Community College
Lane Microbusiness - The Comprehensive Program

Jane Scheidecker, Director
Business Development Center
Lane Community College
1059 Willamette St.
Eugene, OR 97401
541-747-4501, Ext. 2929
Fax: 541-686-0096
Email: scheideckerj@lanecc.edu

Focus: Community college, local market, and community development credit union in not-for-profit community collaboration.

Abstract: Lane's MicroBusiness program blends the strength of a community development credit union (OUR Credit Union), a mature year-around crafter's, food, and music market (Saturday Market), and the learn-and-earn capacity of the Lane Community College Business Development Center. In our first year, we have 60 participating businesses from urban and rural Lane County; funding from the City of Eugene, Oregon Economic Development, the Wells Fargo Foundation, Lane Community College, and Saturday Market; a VISTA volunteer; and enthusiastic support from Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

The program welcomes existing businesses and helps them become credit-ready and market-ready for significant growth. The program involves a case management system, peer group meetings, individual business counseling and follow-up, access to a variety of business workshops, and access to capital.

Coordinator Elaine Phillips provides most of the recruitment, case management, and training coordination. A VISTA volunteer from the credit union provides focused connectivity with the loan program. And Saturday Market provides a market window to Lane County and other gift and trade shows for our participants. Other instructors and counselors from the Business Development Center support the program participants as needed.

The goals for participants the program are to increase sales by 50 percent in 12 months and to prepare or revise a business plan for better business focus or credit.

Help Needed from the Entrepreneurship Forum Group

We've done well in meeting many of our goals. A primary goal of revising the current Business Development Center curriculum for anytime/anywhere delivery has eluded us. We are looking for collaborators on modularizing existing curriculum into bite-size pieces that can go to Web, to self-study, to digital video with equal ease.

University of Oregon,
The Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship

Randy Swangard, Director
The Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship
University of Oregon
Charles H. Lundquist College of Business
1208 University of Oregon
Eugene, Oregon 97403-1208
541-346-3312
Fax: 541-346-3359
Email: Ice@lcb.uoregon.edu

Focus: University-based services

Abstract: The LCE offers a wide variety of activities, programs, speakers, entrepreneurs on campus, competitions, and clubs that are designed to assist our "entrepreneurially-spirited" students develop their strategic game. We harness the wisdom, experience and perspective of the business community and alumni through face-to-face engagement opportunities. We place our students in "real world" environments such as internships, E-Venture road trips, internal and external business plan competitions, "shadowing" entrepreneurs; all designed to place our students in the "heat of the game action." Sounds like fun, doesn't it?

The Lundquist College of Business continues to be recognized as one of the top centers for entrepreneurship by SUCCESS magazine. Since 1995 we have been named one of the top 40 schools for innovative entrepreneurship. This ranking has been maintained in an environment of exploding growth of entrepreneurship education. In a tribute to the LCE's mission, SUCCESS identifies our New Venture Championship as one of the top three external business plan competitions in the nation.

The New Venture Championship is a national/international business plan competition created and sponsored by the University of Oregon's Lundquist Center for Entrepreneurship. The Lundquist Center held its first New Venture Championship in 1991, when only a handful of educational institutions were embracing entrepreneurship as a legitimate area of study. In fact, prior to 1991 there were few university-based entrepreneurship centers, and even fewer national business plan competitions. As a pioneer in this area of entrepreneurship education, the Lundquist Center continues its tradition of leadership and innovation with a bigger and better New Venture Championship in the future.

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