ABSTRACT

Summary: Starting and growing an entrepreneurship program is an arduous and rewarding task that requires process development, communication skills, real-world experiences and business planning; empowering students, faculty and administrators; networking and partnerships; leveraging current institutional programs; growth to other academic, local and international arenas; and financial and top management support. The successful program which emphasizes creativity, innovation, interpersonal skills and entrepreneurial leadership, aligns learning goals with curricular activities, and embedded experiences within – and outside – the program. The integrated curriculum provides students with a broad and necessary business background while developing entrepreneurial skills and insights. Students discover their innate entrepreneurial potential; develop processes, tools and perspectives to capitalize on that potential; learn to identify and evaluate business opportunities, acquire capital and other resources, and to start, develop, grow, operate and harvest a business. The thriving program continues to grow to other college academic areas, locally and internationally.