Purchasing Resources for Small Business Education And Training

Entrepreneurship Programs and Courses

Get smart about taking the entrepreneurial path
By Frances Sharpe, freelance writer/editor Can entrepreneurship really be taught? Yes! Approximately 2,000 colleges and universities offer at least one course in entrepreneurship, and many private and government-sponsored programs teach the skills you need to be a successful business owner. Taking advantage of the programs and courses available can help you:

1. Gain hands-on experience through internships.
2. Find investors to fund your start up venture.
3. Develop relationships with mentors.
4. Plan strategically.

Get more free tips and ideas for your small business at BizBest.
 

Stay in school

College courses planning, risk management, raising capital and more. Many programs emphasize hands-on learning with internships and mentoring.
Try: Take a look at Entrepreneur recommendations for the “Top 50 Entrepreneurial Colleges”. Don't have the time or can't afford tuition for B-school? Check out free, online videos and podcasts on entrepreneurship at Stanford University's Entrepreneurship Corner.

Learn the ABCs of the SBA

The Small Business Administration offers a host of national training events and online classes, and its Small Business Development Centers provide a variety of training programs and courses. Whether you want to learn more about writing a business plan, strategic planning, starting a business, or being a young entrepreneur, there's a course for you.
Try: Visit the Small Business Adminstration's training site for a list of free online courses. For courses in your area, find a Small Business Development Center.

Study up on economic development councils

Many state and local economic development councils offer entrepreneurial training programs. Some provide intensive programs lasting several weeks; others offer weekend courses or one-time seminars.
Try: Get a list of state and local economic development councils from the Economic Development Administration.

Get an education in street smarts

Learn from entrepreneurs who've already made it big in business. Discovering the real-life challenges entrepreneurs faced as they built their businesses can provide insight you may not find in a classroom.
Try: VentureVoice.com offers podcasts from entrepreneurs who reveal their experiences in business ownership. 

• Nothing beats hands-on experience so take advantage of opportunities for internships with entrepreneurial companies.
• Network with fellow students. The business connections you make in school can develop into business partnerships down the road.
• Get to know your professors. They are usually very well-connected and can introduce you to venture capitalists if they believe in you and your business.