Entrepreneurship 1

Description

Course Syllabus

This is a one-semester (half-credit) Entrepreneurship course for students in grades 9-12. Students may take the full-year Entrepreneurship 1 & 2 course by clicking the link.

Entrepreneurship 1: Small Business Foundations

Small businesses drive innovation and growth in every community—fueling nearly half of all U.S. economic activity. Behind every successful shop, app, or startup is an entrepreneur who turned an idea into something real. This course introduces students to the foundations of entrepreneurship and empowers them to think like business owners: creative problem-solvers who recognize opportunities, take informed risks, and turn ideas into action

Course Overview

Students explore the mindset and mechanics of running a small business, gaining practical experience in branding, market research, basic financial planning, and ethical decision-making. The course emphasizes real-world application, helping students understand how business ideas move from concept to launch. By the end of the semester, students will have a strong foundation in entrepreneurship and small business operations, preparing them for future coursework, certification pathways, or real-world ventures.

Course Objectives–What Students Will Learn:

• The entrepreneurial mindset and opportunity recognition
• Basics of branding, marketing, and customer identification
• Market research and competitor analysis
• Introductory financial concepts, including startup costs and pricing strategies
• Legal and ethical responsibilities of business ownership
• How to communicate and pitch a business idea effectively

Projects & Activities

This course is hands-on and project-based. Students will:

• Design a complete small business concept and a written business plan
• Create a brand identity, including logos and customer profiles
• Conduct market research through surveys and analysis
• Build a simple financial model for their business
• Develop and present a mini-pitch explaining their business idea
• Participate in simulations, case studies, and collaborative problem-solving activities

Students work independently and in small groups, strengthening collaboration, communication, and critical-thinking skills.

This course is designed for students in grades 9–12 who want to understand how real businesses operate and grow. It’s a great fit for students interested in building practical financial and business skills, exploring entrepreneurship, or learning how to turn everyday ideas into viable business opportunities. Students who enjoy leadership, planning, creativity, or hands-on problem-solving will feel right at home. Whether a student dreams of owning a business one day or simply wants real-world skills that apply to any career path, this course offers a strong and accessible foundation.

Technology Requirements

• High-speed, broadband Internet
• Headset, microphone, and webcam (for live sessions)
• Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures

Evaluation and Feedback

Communication