Camp $tart-Up

Curriculum Overview

Business Skills

Marketing, Operations and Finance:

• Learn the basic components of a business and how they fit together
• Master the language and culture of business and increase your confidence in interviews and on the job

Planning

• Work with a team to originate an idea for a business and develop a business plan to implement it
• Learn how to translate your ideas into action through research and planning

Research

• Learn to use the internet, the library, and your own network to get the information you need to build your business

Networking

• Attend a “Power Lunch” and practice your own powerful presentation
• Meet inspiring business owners who can open doors for you now and in years to come

Leadership Skills

Self-Confidence

• Gain a better understanding of your own strengths, learning style, and what motivates you.
• Learn to recognize and appreciate different styles as you work effectively in a diverse group.

Effective Team Work

• In your Business Plan Team, practice problem-solving, decision making and other skills critical for success in today's team-based work environments.

Negotiation

• Learn and practice effective techniques for resolving differences and reaching win/win solutions.

Business Etiquette

• Learn tips for dress, greetings, correspondence, and other techniques to make a positive impression in the business world.

Visiting Faculty and Field Trips

A diverse visiting faculty of outstanding business owners provide real world experience and perspective by sharing their stories and their expertise. 

Field trips to businesses relevant to the lives of Camp $tart-Up participants give a first-hand view of diverse companies and how they were established.  Past field trips have included shopping at Birkenstock, USA, North American distributor of the distinctive German footwear; lunching at Hattie’s Restaurant, known for its excellent cuisine; and scaling the climbing wall at Clif Bar, maker of natural energy bars.