This program prepares individuals to start and successfully operate their businesses. The program focuses on the assessment of the market need, and the necessary skills for successful entry, operation and exit. It prepares individuals to develop an original business plan, a marketing plan and to evaluate their competitiveness in the market, and includes the initial analysis of a business idea to determine feasibility and start-up requirements. The program prepares individuals to perform the duties of planning, overseeing and directing business operations and employees as well as collecting, and analyzing data/information to identify potential product or service demand. Potential occupations include small business or franchise owner, economic developer, small business development specialist, or independent artist, trades worker, consultant, professional and contract outsource labor.

Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to: • Develop a working business plan. • Develop a working marketing plan. • Perform pricing calculations and determine profit margins. • Identify market niches.