Taking advantage of the programs and courses available can help you:
- Gain hands-on experience through internships.
- Find investors to fund your startup venture.
- Develop relationships with mentors.
- Plan strategically.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Stay in school
College courses planning, risk management, raising capital and more. Many programs emphasize hands-on learning with internships and mentoring.I recommend: For a comprehensive directory of accredited business degree programs, visit AllBusinessSchools.com or take a look at Entrepreneur.com's recommendations for the “Top 100 Entrepreneurial Colleges”. Don't have the time or can't afford tuition for B-school? Check out what business school deans have to say at DeansTalk.net.
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.I recommend: Visit the SBA training site for a list of free online courses, a calendar of upcoming low-cost events in your area, and a resource library. 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.I recommend: 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.I recommend: VentureVoice.com offers podcasts from entrepreneurs who reveal their experiences in business ownership. Interact with top entrepreneurs and venture capitalists at their Startup Workshops.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- 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.
the Small Business Education and Training page at Business.com
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