Introduction
What is an entrepreneur? Do you want to be one? In this course, we’ll discuss the entrepreneurial journey and focus on the early stages of the start-up phase prior to launch. This textbook was created specifically for MIE 310 Introduction to Entrepreneurship at NC State and will be a valuable tool as you work through the course material and the deliverables in your group project. Our course is divided into five modules:
Module 1 covers the following topics:
- Definition of entrepreneurship and its advantages and disadvantages
- Factors driving the growth of entrepreneurship
- Differentiating entrepreneurship from small business ownership
- Entrepreneurial mindset
- Social entrepreneurship
- Ethics in entrepreneurship
- How AI affects entrepreneurs
Module 2 covers the following topics:
- Creativity, innovation, and invention
- Creative Process
- Ideation techniques
- Design Thinking process
- Problem-solving models
- Research-based opportunity finding
Module 3 covers the following topics:
- Opportunity criteria
- SWOT for entrepreneurs
- PEST framework
- Business Model Canvas
- Resource planning
- Legal issues in entrepreneurship
Module 4 covers the following topics:
- Primary and Secondary Research
- Marketing Mix
- Buyer Personas
- Customer Journey Mapping
- Pitch Elements
Module 5 covers the following topics:
- Types of business structures
- Key elements of the business plan
- Accounting for entrepreneurs
- Business life cycle
- Networking for entrepreneurs
