Published on Brock University (http://brocku.ca)
Entrepreneurship Concentration
In this guide:
A concentration in entrepreneurship provides you with the knowledge and skills required to start your own business or work in the small business sector. Areas related to entrepreneurship include family business, social entrepreneurship (i.e. non‐profit firms), independent entrepreneurship (i.e. starting a for‐profit firm), and corporate entrepreneurship. Career opportunities can include starting your own company or working in the development of new business opportunities within existing companies.
Canadian Entrepreneurs:
- Joseph‐Armand Bombardier, Founder of Bombardier Inc.
- Mike Lazaridis, Founder of Research In Motion (RIM)
- John Molson, Founder of Molson Coors
- Galen Weston Jr., Executive Chairman of Loblaw Companies Ltd.
Brock Business Alumni:
- Stephanie Barnes, Founder of Missing Puzzle Piece Consulting
- Chris Capredoni, Founder of Capredoni Giftware Ltd.
Starting a Business
There are many options for individuals looking to start up and manage their own business. Whether it’s starting a new venture (i.e. sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.) or purchasing a pre‐existing firm, it is important to take initiative, be flexible, and accept the risks as well as the rewards that come with starting a business. Have a business plan. A business plan generates enthusiasm for your business, establishes clear plans, timelines, and goals, and can help secure funding. It incorporates ideas, research, and financial projections. The following opportunities are available to university students who want experience in developing a business plan and starting their own business:
- Class projects in entrepreneurship courses
- Nicol Entrepreneurial Award ‐ a national program designed to generate and reward interest in entrepreneurship.
- Nitsopoulos Family Entrepreneurship Award ‐ $10,000 award grant to support a Brock University graduate entrepreneur who is committed to establishing a business in Niagara
- Summer Company – an exciting opportunity for students, 15 to 29 years old, to start and run their own summer business. Students who are accepted receive up to $1,500 to put toward start‐up costs and up to $1,500 upon successful completion of the program.
One of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs is obtaining funding for their start‐up. There are many financial resources available including investors, bank loans, government loans or grants, and equity financing programs.
Consulting
With a background in entrepreneurship, you may consider becoming a small business consultant. Small business consultants provide growing companies with services such as staffing and training, market expansion, product development, and enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. New grads looking for consulting positions usually start in entry level roles involving research and analysis.
There are a variety of courses available at Brock that will enhance your understanding and knowledge of entrepreneurship, including the following:
- ENTR 3P93‐ Managing Growth in Entrepreneurial Firms
- ENTR 3P94‐Corporate Entrepreneurship
- ENTR 3P96‐Venture Capital & the Entrepreneur
- ENTR 3P98‐Family Business
- ENTR 3P99‐Behavioural & Organizational Research Method & Designs
- ENTR 4P10‐Planning New Venture Creation
- ENTR 4P93‐International Dimensions of Entrepreneurship
Both work and volunteer experience can help you get a job in the future or gain the necessary skills to start
your own business.
Recommended Clubs on Campus:
Associations, Volunteer Organizations, and Other Resources:
- Canadian Council for Small Business and Entrepreneurship
- Entrepreneur.com
- Business Development Bank of Canada
- Canadian Youth Business Foundation
- Small Business Club Niagara
As an entrepreneur, building a network can be a critical tool in building your business. Establish and build your professional network by getting involved in the community and campus activities. Attend events that are hosted by student associations, professional associations, and on‐campus departments/services.
The BCDO provides various services and hosts different events to help prepare students for the job search process. Check out our workshops or book an appointment with our office. You are also encouraged to attend the following events hosted by the BCDO:
- How To Start Your Own Business – meet alumni and industry professionals
- Networking Breakfast – meet employers from different companies and find out about job opportunities
- Risk-taker
- Resourceful
- Goal-oriented
- Innovative
- Self-confident
- Self-motivated
- Persistent
- Extroverted and Energetic
- Hard-Working
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Ambitious
- Anticipate Trends and Developments
Important Business Skills:
- Business Strategy
- Financial Management
- Human Resources Management
- Operations Management
Goodman School of Business