Sie sind auf Seite 1von 32

FEBRUARY 2008 $2.

50 US

FUTURE CEO STARS


Be Part of
National
Entrepreneurship
Week
and Become a

Star!
©iStockphoto.com, Christopher Hudson
February 2008

In This Issue… Celebrating Future CEO Stars!


The Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education has been providing leadership for
5 Ready, Fire… then Aim over 25 years. Our primary focus has been assisting instructors, which has been
National Council on Economic Education quite successful, but we still felt something was missing…and that something was
direct communication with the students.
7 My Marketplace Adventure
Marketplace For Kids Knowing that “experience is the best teacher”, we decided that who better to com-
municate with potential young entrepreneurs than young entrepreneurs themselves!
8 IIEE Conference—Not to be Missed
IL Institute for Entrepreneurship Education Thus, Future CEO Stars was born.
Our mission is to create a monthly publication that features successful young
10 A Successful Second Chance
National Foundation for Teaching entrepreneurs from Consortium member organizations…designed to generate the
Entrepreneurship entrepreneurial mind-set!

11 Under Pressure Each issue has feature articles dedicated to stories written by students that tell
Buchholz Entrepreneurship Academy the secrets of their entrepreneurial success. Our hope is that this magazine will
motivate, educate, and stimulate young people to follow their examples and chase
12 The Landscape of Success their own dream.
Youth Entrepreneurs of Kansas

13 My Spin on Entrepreneurship Founder of National Entrepreneurship


NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation Week, the Consortium for Entrepre- To Subscribe go to
neurship Education is a non-profit
14 A Letter from the Executive Director
collaborative representing 90+ mem-
www.futureceostars.com
16 SUMMIT 2008 Broadcast ber organizations from national, state
Schedule of Events and local levels. Together we repre-
sent over 40,000 teachers and more
18 Emily’s Advice than two million students.
Published by The Consortium for
21 Make It Happen Our common bond is the philosophy Entrepreneurship Education
Home Builders Institute that “to be successful in the emer- 1601 W Fifth Ave. #199
gence of a new global marketplace, Columbus, OH 43212
22 Caught on Tape entrepreneurship education should www.entre-ed.org
Prominent Youth, Inc. mashmore@entre-ed.org
be a critical component of the overall
23 Experiencing Entrepreneurship education experience as a lifelong
Publisher: Dr. Cathy Ashmore
DECA Inc. learning process.” Editor: Michael Ashmore
We invite readers to meet the Graphic Design: MediaSpark Inc.
25 Ask GoVenture Graphic Artist: Jeff MacNeil
MediaSpark Consortium members at:

26 Micah Toll www.entre-ed.org/_contact Publishing Advisors:


National Museum of Education Soorena Salari, Young Inventors Hub
Learn about the Young Inventors Hub Al Abney, Consortium Advisory Council
28 The Big Bang Effect at:
Réseau des CJE du Québec Annual Subscription Available - $25.00
www.younginventorshub.com
Contact: mashmore@futureceostars.com
29 The Sweet Smell of Success
NY REAL
Join us!
30 Leveraging Experience Well
Beyond Your Years
Utah State Office of Education

31 Our Sponsors
Ready, Fire
…then Aim
BY KIMBERLY JIMENEZ

Kimberly
Jimenez

R eady, fire… Then aim… That is what


entrepreneurship is like. A lot of risky,
creative action can be taken by an entre-
ment of a business plan for a viable en-
trepreneurial business venture that can be
started ...now!
conducting a radio interview on WFUV
and being interviewed for a Japanese
publication featuring youth in entrepre-
preneur but with better understanding and neurship programs. All of this is great
Additionally, NCEE is responsible for
entrepreneurship education the pathway resume building, but as a sophomore in
redesigning an entrepreneurship camp
to success is easier, even for students. high school, I am still leaving my options
called EntrePrep Summer Institute. From in-
I am learning the ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of youth open to check out different industries and
ception of the redesign to the actual pilot
entrepreneurship as a student in the work opportunities for my future. This experi-
of the first camp it is an interesting process
study program through Cristo Rey High ence proves to me that being an entre-
to see in progress. It’s like seeing an en-
School located in New York City. At the preneur is not easy, takes tremendous
trepreneur be entrepreneurial teaching
National Council on Economic Educa- effort but offers great rewards. Investing
entrepreneurship (say that fast 10 times!).
tion, one day a week and for the past in your future by exploring different career
two years, I work as the assistant to the I help with projects like preparing a com- options should absolutely include entre-
Director of the Youth Entrepreneurship petitive analysis of camps, researching preneurship whether you are one your-
Program (YEP), Carrie McIndoe. A Ewing experiential based learning programs, self or work for one. It’s empowering
Marion Kauffman Foundation grant gives conducting surveys and preparing spread- and gives you confidence. I have grown
the NCEE the ability to offer youth entre- sheets. My job also includes research and from the experience and will continue to
preneurship programs through sub-grants, preparation for a contest called Gallery of aim toward my goals—that is, until that
nationwide, for teacher training work- Entrepreneurs. Students interested in entre- entrepreneur in me comes out and then its
shops. Mini-Society® is an experiential preneurship should have teachers or par- “ready… FIRE.”
based learning for students ages 8 – 12 ents help submit an entry. Details can be
and Making a Job is an awareness and found at www.galleryofentrepreneurs.com
readiness curriculum in entrepreneurship and prize money is awarded.
that takes middle school students from the
My job has afforded me the good fortune
initial stages of identifying and analyzing
to be interviewed for a local newspaper,
ideas as potential business opportunities
The New York Post (including my photo),
in their own world through the develop-

Future CEO Stars February 2008


5
Future CEO Stars February 2008
6
My
Marketplace
Adventure
BY DAVID KAHL JR. David Kahl Jr. at work.

M y love of inventing began at any


early age. One day when I was
in kindergarten, I went fishing with my
book for day care providers. These inven-
tions gave me the experience necessary
to create my most successful invention:
It’s an event designed to promote and
encourage entrepreneurs of all ages to
display and publicize their products, ex-
grandfather. The first hour was exciting, Better Letters, which led to my Market- change ideas and explore new oppor-
but I soon grew tired of just standing on place adventure. tunities. This initial showing resulted in
the riverbank. So I said, “I could make numerous orders, which led to multiple
Better Letters — A Complete Letter-Writing
a fishing pole stand that would hold sales in the following years.
Kit for Kids led to the establishment of my
my fishing rod.” When I got home,
own publishing company—Midland In- Midland Instructional Creations became
I drew out my plan and began building.
structional Creations. Better Letters was a a successful business, and I was invited
On one end of a 2 x 4 board, I cut a
kit that I created out of necessity. When to speak at various shows and to talk
V-shaped groove. On the opposite end
I was in sixth grade, I would often want to youth in the tri-state area about my
of the board, I attached a tent stake that
to write a thank you or a friendly letter, experiences as a young entrepreneur.
would hold the board in the ground.
but I would spend countless minutes I am very grateful that Marketplace for
I also attached a bell that would ring
searching for paper, pens, pencils, etc. Entrepreneurs and Marketplace for Kids
when a fish had grabbed the hook.
I thought there had to be a better way provides children and adults with the
A year later, I created “Car Find.” When and perhaps I could package all the opportunities to be creative, use their
my parents left a shopping mall, they essentials into one complete kit. talents, invent, learn about the world of
would frequently say, “Now where did work and showcase the potential in our
I made a prototype and used it in con-
we park the car?” I thought maybe a state of North Dakota. My adventure has
ducting a survey of students and parents.
small colorful device could be attached been successful because of them.
The survey did establish a need for the
to the car radio antennae so the car could David received a B.A. in Economics and Business
kit, so I contacted a manufacturer of
be more easily located. With the help of from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. He is
plastic items to construct the kit to my
my grandmother, I cut some large letter currently a doctoral student in Communications at
specifications: the inside panels would North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Da-
and animal shapes from wood about
have various vinyl pockets for the writing kota and will graduate in the summer of 2008.
four inches in length and painted them
essentials such as paper, pens, stamps,
bright colors. Then I drilled a hole on the
envelopes and addresses. While the kit
bottom of each shape so that it would fit
was being constructed, I concentrated
over the top of the car antennae. Yes, my
on writing of the instruction book, which
parents were my first customers.
would feature tips and advice on how to
In subsequent grades, I entered other write better letters.
inventions in our local Metro Inventors’
My first success with Better Letters
Fair competition. I created a mailbox sig-
came when I was invited to display it
nal, a greeting-card organizer, a Wall of
at Marketplace for Entrepreneurs, an
Fame book for parents, and a Kid Care
annual event held in North Dakota.

Future CEO Stars February 2008


7
The Illinois Institute for Entre-
preneurship Education (IIEE)
invites young entrepreneurs and
their instructors to register for the
2nd Annual IIEE Young Entrepre-
neurs Conference to be held May
1-3 of 2008 in the Chicagoland area.
Students from around the country
participate in: Business Work-
shops, Business Plan Competitions,
The Young Entrepreneur Expo,
The “E” College Tour, Networking
with adult and young entrepre-

IIEE Conference neurs, presentations from nation-


ally known Keynote Speakers and
more! For more information go

Not to be Missed! to www.iiee.org or call IIEE at


(312)587-9296.

Student I heard about the IIEE Youth En- Student What type of events do you have IIEE Absolutely! And you’ll be able to visit
trepreneurship Conference. Where is this in the evening for students? them during the expo.
conference going to be?
IIEE We have a student lounge called Student Speaking of prizes, how will I
IIEE It will be held at the Lincolnshire Mar- “The Den” where there will be comput- know if I won any of the competitions that
riott Resort in Lincolnshire, IL May 1st, ers, MyVenture.Net (a social networking I entered?
2nd, and 3rd, just North of Downtown group similar to Myspace® for young en-
IIEE The winners will be announced on the
Chicago. trepreneurs) games and movies. Also, on
very last day of the conference.
Friday evening we have the “The Business
Student How can I register for the confer-
Showcase.” Students can
ence?
advertise their businesses
IIEE Your teachers, parent or guardian has in a creative format in
to register for you unless you are at least 18 front of a live audience.
and you must be a high school student. It’s like American Idol/
So You Think You Can
Student Do I have to do something
Dance meets American
special or dress a certain way?
Inventor. The more cre-
IIEE Like any professional, you must be ative the better!
on your best behavior. You will want to
Student If I can’t come
wear business attire during the conference.
all three days, is there
However, casual attire will be accepted on
any other way to partici-
Friday evening.
pate in the conference?
Student What kind of workshops will you
IIEE Sure, you can
have? Who teaches them?
come to the conference
IIEE They are industry specific and taught on a “one day” regis-
by entrepreneurs currently working in that tration. The cost is only Teachers and students at the Conference.
field. $100, which includes
dinner and the Business
Student Are there different competitions? Showcase.
How do I sign up?
Student While I’m in my workshop will
IIEE Yes, there are four categories of com- there be something for my teachers?
petitions; Jumpstart, Start-Up, School/Group
Business and the Advanced Business Plan IIEE There are teacher tracks throughout the
Competitions. Entry forms are located on our day given by colleges and universities to as-
website and must be submitted by February sist teachers in choosing the right colleges
29, 2008. There will also be a Youth Expo for their students. We also have a special
competition for prize money. Students can workshop on finance for the teachers.
actually exhibit their own businesses and
Student Do any of these colleges and uni-
make sales during the conference.
versities have entrepreneurship majors?

Future CEO Stars February 2008


8
Does your class
need money?

Is your teacher looking for


an effective way to raise
funding for a class project?
©iStockphoto.com, Scott Hancock

Are you tired of selling cookies


or candy?

Do you want to avoid the hassle


of having to deliver what you sell?

We have your solution!


For more information have your
teacher contact The Consortium
for Entrepreneurship Education:
fundraiser@futureceostars.com

The Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education is a qualified


501(c3) non profit corporation and, therefore follows all rules,
laws, and requirements pertaining to maintaining this status.
A Successful Second Chance
BY ANDREW KUTCHES

I am a 20-year old San Franciscan and


I recently started my own business,
Kutches Construction, a small residential
remodeling company.
I was interested in operating a business at
a very young age. As a kid, my brother
and I would sell everything from candy
to water on hot summer days. We would
buy a case of 35 water bottles for five
dollars, and sell them for a dollar a piece,
making a 30 dollar profit in a half hour.
A few years later I got into some trouble
and ended up at a facility run by San
Francisco Juvenile Probation. I wound up
taking a National Foundation for Teach-
ing Entrepreneurship (NFTE) class while I
was there, and it really opened my eyes
to all of the exciting opportunities that
were out there for me if I worked hard
and focused on my dreams.
Through NFTE, I learned about the differ-
ent types of businesses, targeting custom-
ers, gross and net profits, unit cost, and Andrew Kutches
a lot of other things that have helped me
start my own business. It was all really
interesting to me, and I was at a turning
point in my life and needed something
positive to focus on. When I left the
facility I started working in the Carpen-
ters Union Local 22. During the time I
was working as a carpenter I started a
small fence-building business, and soon
added painting to the services I offered.
Eventually everything led me to where I
am now — operating a residential con-
struction business. I am also interested
in real estate, and I’m currently looking
into finding a job at a real estate firm
so I can learn about the industry while
growing my construction business.
In 2007, NFTE gave me a Young En-
trepreneur of the Year award; it was a NFTE winners. From left to right: Juliun Kinsey,Tinny Roy,
great experience to go to New York and Andrew Kutches, and Harry Jefferson.
be honored with 30 other young entre-
preneurs just like me. Although I’ve had
some trouble in the past, I can honestly
say now that I am blessed to be able to
support myself, and I have the skills and
the drive to reach whatever goals I
set for myself.

Future CEO Stars February 2008


10
Under
Pressure
BY JORDAN WEINGART AND TYLER YOHO

L ast spring after football practice one day everyone else was
talking about getting summer jobs and we both thought,
“Why work for someone else doing something you hate for
little pay over the summer? There must be a better way!” We
wanted to make some money but not work at minimum wage
jobs, and we thought it would be fun to work together since
we’re really good friends and have known each other for
years. Both of us have grown up in entrepreneurial families
and have seen first-hand the benefits of being your own boss. Tyler Yoho and Jordan Weingart
We are both students in the Academy of Entrepreneurship at
Buchholz High School where we’ve learned the skills and prin-
ciples about how to start and operate a business. We decided As we completed more jobs, we learned things
to put all these benefits to work and launch our own business. that made the jobs easier and faster:
In Florida the climate causes mold and other unwanted things
to grow on houses, driveways, pool areas, and virtually • Always wear hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and
everywhere, so we chose to start a pressure washing business
comfortable shoes.
because we felt there would be plenty of customers.
We began by making business cards and flyers and passing
• Buy supplies ahead of time rather than when you
them out to friends and family as well as local businesses. We need them.
used our own pressure washers, ladders, hoses and chemicals, • Leave everything on the trailer rather than
and we transported the equipment in our own trailer. Our first unloading individual things each night. This not only
job was a trial and error process. It was also our largest job
saves time but keeps you from forgetting things.
to date. We woke up at 6 a.m. to get an early start because
we knew it would take at least a full day. Since we were new, • Remember to do everything the customer asked
we didn’t really know where to start or what to do. It took us you to do. One customer asked us to pressure
at least an hour to actually start working. We had to leave sev- wash her driveway and clean out the gutters. We
eral times to get more chemicals or equipment that we forgot. finished the driveway and then remembered the
At the end of an 8-hour summer workday, we were exhausted
gutters. We blew everything out of the gutters and
and badly sunburned. We also didn’t finish even half of the
work, so we were back the next day to finish.
it went all over the driveway, so we had to clean
the driveway again.
During the summer, we averaged three jobs per week, and
now that school is back in session, we do about one job per • Have extra or backup equipment so you’re not
week. We made more money than we expected, and cer- slowed down when something breaks.
tainly more than if we had worked at a “regular” job. Plus we
• Always park in a secure area—one of our power
have the pride of knowing that we did it ourselves and were
successful.
washers was stolen out of Jordan’s truck and we
had to buy another one.
We are now researching and experimenting on developing a
concrete cleaner product and plan to get a patent for it. We
also want to expand our business to pressure washing roofs and
need to learn more about how to do that the correct way.
To be successful, you can’t be scared to promote your business.
Always smile, talk, and be friendly while establishing relation-
ships with customers—this is how you build repeat business
and get referrals. Our secret to success is to find something
that you love to do and figure out a way to get paid for it.
If you follow this philosophy it will never really matter what your
income is because you will ultimately be successful.

Future CEO Stars February 2008


11
The
Landscape

©iStockphoto.com, Alexandr Smulsky


of Success BY TANNER BOWMAN

Tanner Bowman

M any kids enjoy spending their summer in the pool. I enjoy


spending mine outside cutting grass. I own and operate
Tanner’s Turf Care. It’s a business that performs full service mow-
customers were referrals from people trying to help me get
started. If I had not been personable and used soft skills with
them I would not have made it. Let’s face it, people hire people
ing, minor landscaping, flower bed maintenance, and brush, they like.
leaf and snow removal in the vicinity of Wichita, Kansas.
My first year of business is coming to a close. I like to think that
Ideas for this business venture started forming in the summer it has been a success. But nothing has come easy. There were
before my senior year of high school, while I was working for many days when my luck was so bad that I could not complete
another service business in the area. Seeing things that could any of the jobs that I set out to do. Running a business is tough,
easily be improved was a great form of inspiration to me. Not but with the help of organizations like YEK I have learned to
to mention that I had always preferred working outdoors and deal with hardships.
I prefer giving orders to taking them! From the time I set my
Youth Entrepreneurs of Kansas helped me learn things that I use
goals, I knew I would go to great lengths to accomplish them.
in my business every day. I thoroughly enjoyed going to this
Staying mindful of the mental and financial dedication that
class because of its practicality. And thanks to them I entered
would be involved was very important.
college with a $5,000 scholarship. I am truly grateful for the
The financial aspect of starting a business from scratch was my people that help make YEK great. I owe them a debt of grati-
biggest challenge. At the time, I was 18 years old with ab- tude for the progress I have made in this past year.
solutely no experience in dealing with loans or large amounts
Overall, the biggest key to success for me has been taking
of money. Financing things I didn’t have the money for out-
calculated risks while staying positive. Having the opportunity
right was not comfortable to me. Nonetheless, in September
to start a business is a privilege, and I am truly grateful that
of 2006 I bought my first mower - a 60” Dixie Chopper. At
anyone in America has that chance.
this time, I was riding on faith that I could make Tanner’s Turf
Care a success because I had yet to acquire a single customer.
Indeed, the entrepreneurial spirit is one involving risks. Soon
after the purchase of my Dixie, I started landing jobs, including
my first significant commercial account. Because of the increase
in customers, I needed more equipment. Now accustomed to
incurring debt, I purchased an enclosed trailer, a 48” Walker
Mower, and other items.
Through my business endeavors, I have learned the impor-
tance of being personable to everyone. Many of my first

Future CEO Stars February 2008


12
I was a recipient of a 2005 NFIB Young Entrepreneur
Award. I have owned my company since the 6th grade
and have grown the company into a successful, well-known,
small business in the area. DJ PowerPlay Entertainment is
a mobile DJ business based out of Marengo, IL, 135 miles
from my apartment in Clinton, IA, where I am in my junior
year at Ashford University.
The last couple years have forced me to adapt to the idea of
remote operation the concepts associated with it. But I have
developed many good relationships as a result and enjoyed
the continuous challenge the situation presents. Since I was
awarded a scholarship two years ago, quite a bit has changed
in the organization. DJ PowerPlay Entertainment has grown
considerably. We now cover three states across the Midwest
(Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin) and are rapidly expanding.
We have doubled our gross profit in 2007 and I am projecting
to double that number this coming year. I’m also planning
to take the website (www.djpowerplayentertainment.com)
to the next level. I want to have a special login page for
my clients and allow them to plan their entire event online.
It will also provide them complete access to our music library.
In theory, the company would be more convenient, accessible Michael
24/7/365, and entirely paperless. This is a very exciting Reddersdorf
goal for me.
In 2007, DJ PowerPlay Entertainment performed at over 40
events across the three state region with a concentration in
wedding receptions and ceremonies. To expand my business
I purchased a complete second system, upgraded the current
My Spin on
audio system and hired another professional disc jockey in
hopes of having performances happening simultaneously in
separate locations to double our profit margin in 2008 and
Entrepreneurship
BY MICHAEL REDDERSDORF
increase our popularity around the area.
Over the last several years, I have gained a significant
amount of business knowledge and management skills asso-
ciated with operating a successful company. The information
I’ve learned in college paired with the experience of being
an owner/manager has greatly improved my chances of
“surviving and thriving” in the business world upon gradua-
tion. I’ve become proficient in basic accounting, advertising,
marketing, product positioning, positive employee motiva-
tion techniques and public relations. But no matter what new
ideas I learn, I’m staying with the practice I’ve held since
starting the company: we focus our attention on providing
the client with the best service possible in the industry for an
affordable price. That will never change.
I would like to thank NFIB and my NFIB sponsor, Sharon
Barth, for the award in 2005 and for helping me continue
my education and take my business to the next level.

Future CEO Stars February 2008


13
A Letter from the
Executive Director
Dear Reader,

F irst of all I want to thank you for reading Future CEO Stars Magazine.
It was created so young people like yourself can share your entrepreneurial
experiences and help each other on your way to success.
You are part of my “dream” that started over 25 years ago when I created
the Consortium for Entrepreneurship Education. Back then most people could
not even spell “entrepreneur”. I saw my dad’s business go bankrupt because
he was a great salesman but didn’t have all of the entrepreneurial skills
he needed to succeed. This motivated me on the path to entrepreneurship
education.
The Consortium started small with a few educational groups joining together
to help the field of Entrepreneurship Education grow. Back then, we were just
becoming aware that Entrepreneurs made this country the economic power
that it is. Very few schools offered any form of entrepreneurship educa-
tion or training. Thanks to the dedication and commitment of our member
organizations, the Consortium has grown to over 100 strong (representing
over 40,000 teachers), and the field has changed dramatically. Schools now
are offering all forms of alternative education programs to support students
with the Entrepreneurial spirit.
I really want to encourage all of you to take part in National Entrepreneurship
Week. It is a celebration of Entrepreneurship Education that we created,
and we supported establishment by the US Congress. The Week is specially
designed to encourage, motivate and inform students that being your own
boss and pursuing your passion is very achievable and a great way to live.
This nationwide movement toward giving students the tools they need to de-
termine their own destiny, along with the week that recognizes it, is proof that
you can make your dream a reality. The growth of Entrepreneurship Education
and National Entrepreneurship Week are my Dreams come true!
Take this opportunity… Create Your Future!

Dr. Cathy Ashmore


Executive Director

Future CEO Stars February 2008


14
109TH CONGRESS

2D SESSION H. RES. 699


Supporting the goals and ideals of National Entrepreneurship Week and encouraging the implementation of entre-
preneurship education programs in elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher education through
the United States.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES


FEBRUARY 28, 2006
Mr. PRICE of North Carolina (for himself, Mr. MOLLOHAN, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. OSBORNE, Mr. LANGEVIN, Mr. KENNEDY
of Rhode Island, Mr. BROWN of Ohio, Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. ETHERIDGE, Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. GRIJALVA,
Mr. HIGGINS, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. HOLT, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. OTTER, Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota, Mr. MCINTYRE,
and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Education and
the Workforce

RESOLUTION
Supporting the goals and ideals of National Entrepreneurship Week and encouraging the implementation of entre-
preneurship education programs in elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher education through
the United States.
Whereas, according to the Department of Labor, most of the new jobs created throughout the United States in the
past decade have come from the creative efforts of entrepreneurs and small businesses, which have been expanding
and advancing technology and fueling the recent growth in the economy;
Whereas economically independent entrepreneurs are engaged citizens who work to improve the economic environ-
ment in their local communities, providing better opportunities for businesses to operate and a better environment for
the human resources they need to advance their business dreams;
Whereas 70% of high school students want to become entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurial skills will assist students in
the future regardless of whether they work in a business owned by others or run their own business;
Whereas the high interest of students in becoming entrepreneurs and the critical role entrepreneurs have played in
advancing the national economy make it vital for the Nation’s schools to provide students with training in the skills
which will enable them to become the entrepreneurs of the future;
Whereas, through the initiative to annually observe National Entrepreneurship Week, entrepreneurial organizations
promote awareness of the contributions of entrepreneurs as innovators, positive forces in the economy, and important
resources for improving communities as places to live and work; and
Whereas National Entrepreneurship Week will focus on the innovative ways in which entrepreneurship education
can bring together the core academic, technical, and problem solving skills essential for future entrepreneurs and
successful workers in future workplaces:

Now, therefore, be it Resolved, that the House of Representatives—


(1) encourages the implementation of entrepreneurship education throughout the United States;
(2) supports the goals and ideals of National Entrepreneurship Week so that the people of the
United States are reminded of the contributions of entrepreneurs and so that educators are encouraged to reflect
©iStockphoto.com, Peter Zelei

on how entrepreneurship education can improve the performance of their students; and
(3) requests that the President issue a proclamation calling on the Federal Government, State
and Local governments, schools, nonprofit organization, and others to observe National Entrepreneurship Week
annually with special events in support of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship education programs.

Future CEO Stars February 2008


15
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY
LIVE from Washington DC LIVE from Rural New York LIVE from California
Eastern Howard University Eastern NY Rural Entrepreneur- Eastern OH Tagging the Whales—
Time Students — LIVE Time ship through Action Time National Museum of Education
Successful Young Entre-
10:00 AM 10:30 AM Learning—Continues 10:00 AM
preneurs Sharing with through 2 PM at the Wells-
the Next Generation of ville Creative Arts Center, 10:30 AM OH OUT TO SEA—Competi-
Entrepreneurs Wellsville, NY tion in Applying the Technology
10:00 AM –12:00 AM - NMOE
NY Critical Thinking and
Extreme Entrepreneurship 11:00 AM VT Young Entrepreneurs in the
Problem Solving Skills—
Provided by Michael Sim- Displays of student artwork Green Mountain State—#2
mons and discussion with artists 11:30 AM GA Preparing Teachers for
12:00 PM GA Entrepreneurship and entrepreneurs a Global Economy—Global
Leadership Development 11:00 AM BREAK Achievers & Georgia Department
Seminar—North Gwinnett of Education
11:30 AM NY Creativity and
DECA 12:00 PM IL The Illinois Entrepreneurship
Innovation Skills—Displays
12:30 PM MD Entrepreneurs Go To of student artwork and Career Day—Illinois Institute for
School Tour Series (EYE for discussion with artists and Entrepreneurship Education
Change - Baltimore) entrepreneurs 1:00 PM EntrePrep Summer Institute—
1:00 PM George Washington 12:00 PM BREAK National Council on Economic
University Students— Education
12:30 PM NY Communication and
LIVE Successful Young 1:30 PM PA The Diverse Face of Erie
Collaboration Skills—
Entrepreneurs Sharing with Entrepreneurship Education,
Displays of student artwork
the Next Generation of Advocates, and
and discussion with artists
Entrepreneurs 1 – 3 PM Transformational Projects.
and entrepreneurs
Extreme Entrepreneurship 1:00 PM 2:00 PM PA We Challenge You to
DE Delawareans Save!
Provided by Michael First State Community Loan Educate Yourself and Others on
Simmons Fund Features IDAs the value of Entrepreneurship in
the future of Pennsylvania.
3:00 PM VT Entrepreneurship in 1:30 PM NY Information, Media,
Economic Development. 2:30 PM CA Ivy Academia K-12
and Technology Skills—
(Barre VT Community Displays of student artwork Charter School, Woodland
Economic Development) and discussion with artists Hills, CA Tatyana Berkovich,
3:30 PM These Kids Mean and entrepreneurs President
Business Excerpts from 3:00 PM NE Focus on a Virtual * Car of the Future
the PBS Special Incubator—Central Competition: 4th–9th
4:00 PM BREAK Community College Graders present an essay or
press release and their actual
5:00 PM LAUNCHING NATIONAL 3:30 PM OH The Birth of An model to the judges.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP Entrepreneurship Coalition
WEEK 2008 at the US * E-Competition for the Ivy Top
4:00 PM VT Young Entrepreneurs Entrepreneur Award: 6th–9th
Congress. Elected officials, in the Green Mountain
government leaders & graders will give a 3–5
State—#1 minute presentation of their
entrepreneurs of all ages
come together at the US 4:30 PM ND Experiences of Entre- business plan
Congress to CELEBRATE preneurs—Marketplace of 4:00 PM CA Ivy Students will exhibit
National Entrepreneurship Ideas/Marketplace for Kids their businesses
Week—LIVE 5:00 PM These Kids Mean Business— 5:00 PM These Kids Mean Business
7:00 PM [OFF AIR] Excerpts from the PBS Special
6:00 PM [OFF AIR]
6:00 PM [OFF AIR]

Future CEO Stars February 2008


16
THURSDAY FRIDAY
LIVE from Lincoln, Nebraska LIVE from Charleston, WV
Eastern NE Imagine the Possibilities— Eastern Time Thanks to our NEW Sponsors
Time * Energizing, Engaging, and Empowering
10:00 AM
Entrepreneurs Through Statewide
10:00 AM 10:30 AM WV Entrepreneurship Day at the Capitol Launch
Collaboration (Gregg Christensen)
WV Governor Joe Manchin
* Honoring Commitment to Youth
Entrepreneurship (Gregg Christensen/ 11:00 AM SWEET Success: Lemonade Stand Lessons
Tom Osborne) Learned from WV’s Youngest Entrepreneurs WV
Elementary School Children and Teachers
* Building Communities Through Youth
Entrepreneurship (Tom Osborne) 12:00 AM BREAK

11:00 AM Imagine a Collaboration 12:30 AM LUNCHEON KEYNOTE:


* Creating Opportunities for Youth Attracting and Developing Entrepreneurs in
Entrepreneurs (Patricia Fairchild & ESI Your Town [Session 1of 3] Dave Ivans,
Collaborative Partners) Michigan State University

12:00 PM Imagine Experiential Learning 1:00 AM How the New Economy Provides New
* Using the 4-H learning model and the ESI Opportunities for Entrepreneurs [Session 2 of 3]
Curriculum in clubs, camps and after Jeff James, Create WV Initiative
school programs to ignite the spark of 1:30 AM Entrepreneurs Come in All Shapes and Sizes
entrepreneurship in youth. (Patricia Fairchild, [Session 3 of 3] Jeff James, Create WV Initiative
Nancy Eberle)
2:00 AM The Entrepreneurial Spirit in West Virginia
1:00 PM Imagine Communities M.E. Yancosek Gamble, West Virginia
* Embracing Youth as the Source of Future Development Office, Small Business Division
Economic Development (Craig Schroeder,
2:30 AM Introduction to the Entrepreneurial League
Hometown Competitiveness Partners)
System® (ELS) Mark Burdette, Advantage Valley
2:00 PM Imagine Camps (WV, OH, KY) ELS
* Where Fun, Entrepreneurship, Community
3:00 AM BREAK
Mentors, and Youth Come Together
(Dennis Kahl, Dorix Lux and Camp 3:30 AM A Look at West Virginia’s Three Statewide
Leaders/Coordinators) Business Plan Competitions
Sharon Wagoner, WV Community and Technical
3:00 PM Imagine Schools
College Program Coordinator (Moderator), Former
* Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
WV Dreamquest Winner (Panelist) and Andrew
(Shelly Mowinkel-Milford, Derry Trampe-Ord,
White, Former WV Collegiate Winner (Panelist)
Curriculum Writing Team Members)
4:00 AM BREAK
4:00 PM Imagine a New Kind of Entrepreneur
(Diane Vigna, Junior League Project SEW- 4:30 AM The Underdog’s Trip to the Top: WV Business
Sudanese Women Entrepreneurship Program, Lifecycle Case Studies
Youth, Adults, Home Schools) Andrew White, Young Entrepreneur Support
(YES) Network West Virginia
5:00 PM Imagine the Possibilities for Collaboration
(Patricia Fairchild, Gregg Christensen, Career 5:00 AM These Kids Mean Business
Student Organization Members/Advisors) 5:30 AM These Kids Mean Business
6:00 PM [OFF AIR] 6:00 AM [OFF AIR]

Thanks to the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute


for Sponsoring SUMMIT 2008

Future CEO Stars February 2008


17
Emily’s Advice
E
Q&A
mily actually represents a group of entrepreneurs and educators who are willing to answer
your business related questions. What do you want to know? What haven’t you been able to
discover on your own? Emily is up to the challenge and wants to share her experience with you.
Put Emily to the test. She is here for you!
Submit your questions to AskEmily@entre-ed.org

Q Dear Emily:
Unfortunately there are no National Entrepreneurship Week
events going on anywhere near where I live. I want to somehow
get involved, what can I do?
Sincerely,
Hope N. Forfortune

A Dear Hope,
First of all there are many events you can watch throughout the whole week on
www.nationalEweek.com. Some will actually be live and others will be available
through an archive of recordings. I suggest you check it out early because it does
require that you have Microsoft® Media Player to view.
If you want to get really active though, maybe this would be a good time to get
involved with the current Entrepreneurs in your town. Is there a local business that
you really think is being run well in a field that interests you? Use National Entrepre-
neurship Week as a reason to go meet the Entrepreneur who is running it. Tell them
about the week, let them know that you admire what they have created, and ask
if they could find some time to talk with you and teach you some of their tricks that
make them so special.
Entrepreneurs are usually very busy but they also are proud of their business and ap-
preciate it when people appreciate what they have created. If you do get a chance
to talk with them, be prepared. Have some specific questions ready, dress profession-
ally and show them the respect they deserve for donating their valuable time to you.
I think if you do this you may be amazed at the results you could end up with. You
may get turned down, because like I said, Entrepreneurs are usually very busy people.
But you might also end up with a mentor that could create a fantastic future for you.
It takes some courage to do this but if you are serious and professional about how you
go about it this could change your whole life. Be brave, prepared, professional, and
respectful and your future will be in your own hands. Don’t put all your eggs in one
basket though, if one turns you down, try another. If you keep trying you will find the
person who was meant to help you become a Future CEO Star.

Good Luck,
Emily the Entrepreneur

Future CEO Stars February 2008


18
Future CEO Stars February 2008
19
Make It Happen
Business Ventures
in the Residential
Construction Industry

ll
rro
Ca
I did/made/built that! Do you enjoy

ie
Jam
the satisfaction of looking at a

m,
Free Game!

co
project and uttering these words?

to.
ho
Do you want to find a career path

ckp
Experieennccee each
step of the home

Sto
that is uniquely designed to fit your with Buuiild building process

©i
lding Hom o es off Our O
needs, distinctively shaped to fit your learning experienc w n, an interactive
e from the Natio
personality and has opportunities of Home Builders. nal Association
It’s a fun and chall
in locations throughout the United tional computer ga enging educa-
me that is FREE up
States? Opportunities are waiting classroom educator on request to
s. Ask your teache
for you in residential construction! It’s easy – just log r to get a copy.
on to www.homes
and make the requ ofourown.com
With the right tools you can build a est. Test your hom
as a developer, bu ebuilding skills
career path that will open the door to ilder, general cont
sub-contractor an ractor, contractor,
owning your own business. Now is the d supplier. It’s als
way to learn math, o an electrifying
time to develop realistic career plans science and much
more.
and make decisions about following
an entrepreneurial path in residential
construction. Like much of today’s job
market, individuals entering the indus-
ize s ! P r ize s ! Prizes!
try are required to have more analytical Pr questions about
en-
g your
reasoning ability and a broader skill by simply sendin Services.
You’re a winner Bu ild er s In stitute’s Career
base. Are you FRAMING your resume Hom e bject
trepreneurship to ne ur sh ip Q ue stion in the su
to BUILD a career in residential con- Entrepre a email to
Be sure to put d su bm it your entry vi
struction? Just a sample: knowledge of l or fa x an
line of the emai fax to 202-266-89
99.
construction practices, strong verbal ee r@ hb i.o rg or
buildacar
and written communication skills,
scheduling, management skills, skilled
craft training and computer skills.
Do you have the right stuff? For additional information contact:

Capture the entrepreneur spirit. Join C. Deanna Lewis


Manager for Career Services Toll Free: 1-800-795-7955, ext. 8927
an exciting industry that is also finan- Home Builders Institute Email: buildacareer@hbi.org
cially rewarding! 1201 15th Street, NW Web: www.buildingcareers.org
Washington, DC 20005

Future CEO Stars February 2008


21
Caught on Tape
BY BLAKE HOUSTON

M y name is Blake Houston and I started Caught on Tape, a


videography business that specializes in video taping spe-
cial events. I started back at Prominent Youth, Inc. (PY) in November
of 2006. PY is a nonprofit organization that pays students like
me to build their own businesses based on their passions.
I had about six years of previous video camera experience
making my own short films and filming events for my family.
My partner, Mychael Washam, and I started the business with
just the video equipment we already owned. But our goal has
always been to expand, and by investing profits back into
the company we have managed to set up our own office and
purchase a new high definition camera and a professional G5
computer. Our office has now taken on the look of a small studio.
Caught on Tape has made corporate videos, weddings, slide-
shows and more.
Actually running Caught on Tape has probably been more
difficult and frustrating than I had expected when I was going
into the business development process. It has truly been
a learning experience. I go to college at the University of
Missouri – Kansas City and yes, it can be very difficult to balance
the business and school. Regardless, I think it has given me a
discipline that ties in with my studies.
My major in college is in film, so my studies are definitely an
influence on Caught on Tape. For me, every shot counts and
it’s very personal because I know that my client is basically
seeing through my eyes. It’s also tricky, because there’s little
margin for error. If I were to make a drastic mistake while work-
ing a client’s wedding, there’d be no easy way to fix it. And
needless to say, my customer wouldn’t be very happy.
What has helped me most in building my business is having a
mentor. His name is Mr. Robert Dunn. I learn so much just from
sitting with him and asking him questions. He’s very patient
and he’s able to answer any technical question I can throw at
him. I am extremely grateful for the time and the knowledge he
has shared with me.
Another influence has been
my father, Cy Houston.
My motto is one that he
taught me and it goes like
this: “You put your signa-
ture on whatever you do.”
I consider Caught On
Tape a representation of
Blake Houston at work. my integrity and me.

Future CEO Stars February 2008


22
Experiencing Entrepreneurship
BY MICHELLE WALKER

There are many their personal experience, develop their


benefits/rewards to entrepreneurship skills and connect
being an entrepre- with successful entrepreneurs. It can
neur – contribution be the first step to making your dream
to our national and come true as an entrepreneur. Why not
global economies, [X]perience the Difference with DECA
applying what you as an entrepreneur!
learn in class in fun
For more information about the entre-
and creative ways,
preneurship competitive events, visit
and independent
www.DECA.org
financial success.
Virtual Business Challenge Winners A personal
reward is own-
ership. The self
W hy all the excitement about entre-
preneurship? Should I participate
in the development of entrepreneurial
confidence generated from under-
taking a project of interest and
assuming the risks to be successful
skills? How can I develop knowledge
is indescribable.
and skills for success as an owner of
a business? Perhaps these are ques- DECA Inc understands the excite-
tions you want answered but have not ment of entrepreneurship and the
asked. importance of developing entre-
preneurial skills in a student. Most
There are many reasons for the growing
importantly DECA provides unique
interest in entrepreneurship. Many of the
ways for you to apply the knowledge
new jobs created are by entrepreneurs
and skills needed to be successful
employing others to work in their small
and innovative business owners.
business. Plus, the skills that help some-
Many DECA sponsored activities
one become a successful entrepreneur
allow future entrepreneurs to partici-
are important to anyone who wishes to Entrepreneurship Promotion Project
pate in online business challenges,
have a successful career—organizing,
run a real business venture in your
prioritizing, performing their responsibil-
local community, develop a proposal
ities, and coordinating the tasks of em-
for a new business and present it to
ployees. Skills for effective employees
entrepreneurs, design a plan to start
and entrepreneurs include communica-
an Internet marketing business, and
tion, financial management, creativity
communicate the benefits of entrepre-
and innovation, problem solving, risk
neurship to others.
taking, and vision. Your innovativeness
and creativity will be the foundation for Participation in DECA’s entrepreneur-
tomorrow’s businesses. ship activities allows students to see
what other students do and learn from

Future CEO Stars February 2008


23
The GoVenture Entrepreneur board game
combines the best of your favorite board
games into a business context where you run
your own business and compete, collaborate,
and negotiate with other players.

Game play is expertly designed to recreate


the real-life thrills and challenges of
entrepreneurship in a fun and educational
social learning experience.

Ages 12 to adult. For 2-6 players each with


their own business, or up to 12 players in teams.

Activities include
• Buying, Pricing, and Selling Products • Interacting with other players through Home Version
(called “Gwidgets”) question and answer, drawing, charades, $49
trivia, word puzzles, and more!
• Managing Employees
• Evaluating success by calculating Equity
• Paying Expenses Education Version
• Preparation of Balance Sheet and Profit
• Managing Cash Flow with teacher
and Loss statements (optional) resources
• Investing in Product Quality and Marketing
• Accounting General Journal and General
• Negotiating with other players Ledger (optional)
$129
• Balancing work and life • and much more!

Award-Winning GoVenture Educational Games and Simulations Call toll-free 1-800-331-2282


Software, mobile, board games, card games, and more! www.goventure.net
Ask GoVenture FAST FACTS
Common mistakes young


people make with money
How can I improve
my presentation skills?
Everyone can improve their presenta-
tion skills with practice and a few simple
techniques:

your audience, so avoid standing
behind a lectern.
• Buying items you don’t need…
And paying for them with interest
• Getting too deeply in debt
• Paying bills late or otherwise tarnishing
your reputation
• Stand to the left of your slides and • Having too many credit cards
• Know what is of most interest to your point using your left hand. This posi- • Not watching expenses
audience and structure your presenta- tion naturally draws attention to the • Not saving for the future
tion accordingly. information.
• Paying too much in fees
• Organize your slides well, use a small • When delivering your key message, • Not taking responsibility for personal
amount of text and all in large font. do it in three steps: tell them what you finances
are about to tell them; tell them; then Source: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
• Visit the presentation room to famil- tell them what you just told them. (FDIC Consumer News)
iarize yourself with the environment.
Try out all equipment in advance. • Make eye contact with your audi-

Free
ence as you speak.
• If you are one of many presenters,
never go first, and avoid presenting • Try to appear spontaneous and
toward the end. natural — this is best accomplished
by knowing what you are going to
• Properly align the projector so that say ahead of time.
the light does not leak off the screen. Business Simulation
• Start your presentation with an amusing
• It’s okay to use your slides for reference,
but avoid reading them directly.
for National
anecdote related to your audience, Entrepreneurship Week!
if you can. • Don’t be nervous – remember that the
audience wants you to succeed! MediaSpark is donating the
• Your body language is a crucial part
of how well you will connect with GoVenture Lemonade
Stand simulation software
GoVenture Activity to any school or non-profit
Marketing a New Product organization wishing to
Directions: host a GoVenture Business
Circle these words in the puzzle below. Words may
be in any direction and backwards or forwards. Simulation Competition
ADVERTISING
during National
PACKAGING Entrepreneurship Week.
COMPETITION
PRICE
CUSTOMER Visit
PRODUCT
DIFFERENTIATE
www.goventure.net/eweek
PROMOTION for details!
DISTRIBUTION
PROSPECTS
INNOVATION
SLOGAN
MARKETPLACE
www.goventure.net
STRATEGY

Future CEO Stars February 2008


25
Future CEO Stars February 2008
26
Future CEO Stars February 2008
27
The Big Bang Effect
Entrepreneurship Promotion in Québec
BY JOSÉE-ANN CLOUTIER

“S imple Ideas Fuel Big Successes!”


was the theme for National Entre-
preneurship Day (NED) celebrated across
and a week to entrepreneurship,
Quebec is providing the freedom nec-
essary for young people to try out their
and steps in starting a business. They also
learned more about the experiences and
challenges entrepreneurs face.
Québec on November 16th. 2007 ideas - since there is en-
marked the second annual celebration. couragement to just do
The purpose of the day is to highlight how it! The first leap may be
our ideas, interests and dreams are the making that first phone
seed from which our actions evolve. Since call, writing the idea
Québec’s priority is to develop an entrepre- on paper, organizing a
neurial culture starting as young as 6 years meeting with those who
of age, they have invested in sensitizing can help move the pro-
young people through various measures in cess forward.
developing entrepreneurial skills.
You may be wondering
NED is a day to galvanize our energy how the EAPOs are
and celebrate those who have taken the promoting the entrepre-
entrepreneurial plunge while empowering neurial spirit for NED.
and encouraging others to begin turning The following are some
their dreams into reality. With the support concrete examples of
of teachers, community organizations, events and activities that A humorous play about a business adjusting
entrepreneurs, parents, Entrepreneur- were organized during the the height of chair legs in Rimouski, Québec.
ship Awareness and Promotion Officers week leading up to NED.
(EAPOs) and other youth, young people Because there are 94 EAPOs, this is just Other highlights of the week included con-
are encouraged to recognize their the tip of the iceberg of what took place tests, theatrical performances presented
entrepreneurial qualities that are already on NED. For more details on more events by professional thespians on entrepre-
innate but that may need some igniting. that were sponsored, see the December neurial qualities, young entrepreneurs
2007 issue. sharing their experiences at forums and
conferences as panelists, young entrepre-
Rally races are an excellent activity
neurs pairing with students for the day,
that engages students to be out in
gala celebrations, awards and activities
their community to learn firsthand
in the format of “speed dating” with an
about entrepreneurship. An im-
entrepreneurial twist (of course!).
portant aspect is the partnerships
created in the community. High For more information on NED
school students from both French or on the Youth Entrepreneurship
and English sectors gathered Challenge contact Josée-Ann Cloutier,
together to learn about entrepre- Provincial Coordinator for Youth
neurs in their communities and Entrepreneurship (Anglophone sector) at
how they contribute to the social josee-ann@cjereseau.org
and economic fabric.
A panel of four entrepreneurs share their An organized outing with high
experiences in Charlevoix, Québec.
school students where they met with
young entrepreneurs, the business
Entrepreneurial skills such as cre- centre, and organizations that help
ativity, leadership and self-confi- finance business start-ups along with other
dence are sharpened by prac- small businesses in the community. The stu-
tice. By designating a day dents discovered the necessary elements

Future CEO Stars February 2008


28
S ome might find it unique to learn that a college freshman
like Michelle Canfield operates her own business. Perhaps
even more unique is the type of business she runs. Ms. Canfield
is entering her second year of making “Pet-Pourri”, a functional
craft product she makes by dipping stuffed animals into scented
The Sweet
paraffin.
In 2006, while attending Bolivar-Richburg Central School, Bolivar,
NY, Ms. Canfield said she discovered the “Pet-Pourri” concept
Smell of Success
while attending a local craft fair. She met a woman who sold a
BY KIP DOYLE
similar product. The woman told Ms. Canfield that she was get-
ting out of the craft business for personal reasons. Ms. Canfield
decided that she would pick up where others left off.
Ms. Canfield began going to lawn sales and putting ads in
the newspaper - doing anything she could do to find small
stuffed animals to use as a base for her products. Each
Pet-Pourri product is created by taking stuffed ani-
mals and dipping them in a slow cooker filled with
melted paraffin. Excess paraffin is then removed
and the product then cools and hardens.
The stuffed animals will be firm from the par-
affin but will retain their original shape and
look, making them appropriate for a shelf or
mantle.
The “Pet-Pourri”, as Ms. Canfield has
dubbed them, can take the place of
burning candles because of the strength
of their scent. Simply place your favorite
“Pet-Pourri” stuffed animal in a room and the
fragrance takes over. “People really seem
to like them. They really capture people’s
attention,” she said.
Ms. Canfield uses holiday scents like mistletoe
and pine over the Christmas season, and scents
like lilac and spring rain for Easter. The popularity
of “Pet-Pourri” has grown as Ms. Canfield has
attended more craft fairs with her product. “I have a
lot of repeat customers come to the craft shows looking
Michelle Canfield’s
for me,” she said. Ms. Canfield often forwards her cus- Pet-Pourri
tomers to her company website, where her offers include
customized “Pet-Pourri”.
Ms. Canfield runs a small “Pet-Pourri” department in a store within
her parent’s Canfield’s Lawn Equipment Sales and Service shop in
Shinglehouse, PA and also provides the product on-line.
As a senior at Bolivar-Richburg, Ms. Canfield was awarded the
$2000 NFIB/Jim and Mim Herr Young Entrepreneur Award
because of her business concept. She now attends college at
St. Bonaventure University.
“Pet-Pourri” will be featured locally through publications and
programs taking place at area schools and the Wellsville Cre-
ative Arts Center during National Entrepreneurship Week. The
future of “Pet-Pourri” appears bright as Ms. Canfield’s customer
base continues to grow. To order “Pet-Pourri” online, go to
www.canfieldslawn.com/Pet-Pourri/products.html

Future CEO Stars February 2008


29
Leveraging Experience
Well Beyond Your Years
BY BRIAN ACORD

Y oung entrepreneurs face a set of


problems caused by inexperience,
lack of contacts, and limited exposure to
get you started. The truth is there is never a
bad time to start a good business so con-
sider your strengths and get going.
provide. They pay themselves minimum
wage and don’t expect to do much more
than break even. You must recognize that
business of any kind. Unfortunately, too you are providing a valuable service and/or
Find a Supportive Mentor Look
many would-be teen entrepreneurs listen to a needed product. You must do a good
around your community and identify suc-
the wrong advice, become overwhelmed job for your customers and they should pay
cessful, local entrepreneurs. Do a little
and frustrated and give up well short of you a fair market price. Don’t discount your
research on their backgrounds and their
their dream of starting their own business. price because you are a teenager.
companies and make a list of those who
Since 1996 Young Entrepreneurs of Amer- you would like to get to know. Then call Put Yourself In Your Business
ica (www.yeabiz.com) has been helping them up, introduce yourself and ask for 15 Regardless of what type of business you
teenage entrepreneurs leverage their minutes of their time to get their feedback decide to start, your company is a reflection
strengths and overcome the unique hurdles on your idea. Go to their office on time of who you are. Don’t be afraid to give your
of starting a teen business. Here are a and dressed for success and give them business a little personality. Your creativity
few tips that YEA offers to “educate and your best pitch. Try this with a few entre- and energy should show through your logo,
motivate the next generation of entrepre- preneurs and see which ones were the your name, your marketing materials, and
neurs.”™ most eager to help and which ones you your daily operations. Show gratitude to your
got along with the best. mentors, your employees, your customers
Start Early Don’t wait until you have
and everyone who helps your business
all the money and all the experience you Work On Your Business Every
grow and you will realize a stronger desire
need to ensure success…by then it will be Day Make sure you take your business
for others to help you as well.
too late to take the risk. Take a chance seriously. Keep good financial records,
now with a good idea and learn from set goals and track your success towards This Article Sponsored by the Utah State
the experience. Previous winners of YEA’s those goals. Develop a weekly or monthly Office of Education
Young Entrepreneur Award started their first reporting system that you can share with
business as early as 6th grade. your mentors and other key business
associates and make sure you schedule
Recognize Your Strengths As a teen-
time each day to focus on your top priori-
age entrepreneur you have a number of
ties. Running your own business requires
strengths that work in your favor. You have
a lot of work; starting a new business
a tremendous amount of energy, are very
requires even more effort. The key is to
close to the key teenage demographic,
generate traction and move forward in a
aren’t afraid to try new things, have a fresh
substantial manner every day.
perspective, can work nights and week-
ends, have very little to lose over a failed Don’t Be Afraid to Make Money
startup, and most adults would generally Too many young entrepreneurs tend to dis-
like to provide a helping hand to count the value of the goods or services they

Future CEO Stars February 2008


30
Our Sponsors
W e would like to thank the sponsors of Future CEO Stars whose forward thinking, support, and
generous contributions made this publication possible. It is organizations like these that keep your
education focused, moving forward, challenging, and potentially profitable. To learn more about what they
have to offer please feel free to visit their websites listed below.

When an organization really cares,


it shows!!!
Appalachian Regional Commission www.arc.gov
Buchholz High School www.bhs.sbac.edu
The Coleman Foundation www.colemanfoundation.org
DECA Inc. www.deca.org
E*TRADE Financial www.etrade.com
Home Builders Institute www.hbi.org
Illinois Institute for Entrepreneurship Education www.iiee.org
Marketplace for Kids www.marketplaceforkids.org
MediaSpark www.mediaspark.com
National Council on Economic Education www.ncee.net
National Museum of Education www.nmoe.org
NFIB Young Entrepreneur Foundation www.nfib.com/yef
National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship www.nfte.com
NY REAL www.nyreal.org
Prominent Youth, Inc. www.prominentyouth.com
Réseau des CJE du Quebec www.cjereseau.org
University of Florida www.cei.ufl.edu
Utah State Office of Education www.schools.utah.gov
Youth Entrepreneurs of Kansas www.yeks.org
Yourhomework.com www.yourhomework.com

Future CEO Stars February 2008


31

Das könnte Ihnen auch gefallen