Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Potential with Moraine Park’s Small Business Entrepreneurship Program
Did you know that at some point, you’ve likely been an entrepreneur? Many don’t realize it, but chances are you’ve embraced entrepreneurship in some form during your life – and you may still be doing so! Whether it was hosting a lemonade stand, selling Girl Scout cookies, participating in a car wash, or fundraising for school, we’ve all had experiences selling products or services.
Moraine Park’s Small Business Entrepreneurship associate degree program is designed to turn your ideas into reality. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to take your side hustle to the next level, this program provides the tools and knowledge needed to succeed.
Students in the program develop a business mindset while honing essential skills in innovation, creativity, leadership, and critical thinking. They also gain hands-on experience through real-world training, preparing them for success in a variety of entrepreneurial paths.
For those not ready to dive into the full two-year Small Business Entrepreneurship program just yet, our one-year Entrepreneur program is the perfect steppingstone, offering a flexible pathway straight into the two-year degree. High school students can apply for the Entrepreneur Academy through dual enrollment at no cost, earning the technical diploma after completing just 11 credits.
One standout course, Small Business Management, is a favorite among faculty member Jeffrey Stueber. Over the course of 16 weeks, students participate in a business simulation, where they “own” and operate a coffee shop. This immersive experience includes creating a business name and logo, hiring employees, setting product prices, and managing daily operations—providing invaluable insights into the day-to-day challenges of running a small business.
Upon completing the program, Moraine Park graduates typically pursue one of three career paths:
- Launching a side hustle while maintaining a full-time career.
- Running a full-time small business as an independent entrepreneur.
- Becoming an intrapreneur within an established organization, driving innovation and business development from within.
We’re proud to share that several of our students have successfully opened businesses in the Moraine Park district after completing the program or taking program courses. These include:
Whether you’re looking to start a new venture or expand your current business, Moraine Park’s Small Business Entrepreneurship program can help you turn your passion into a profession. Are you ready to take the next step?