A mini accelerator program where students will bring their existing idea to the program and our curriculum will help them to build, and test, a business model that will prepare them to launch their business. The one week program includes 5 days of instruction, mentorship and workshops. Lunch is included.
The final presentation will be held, on Saturday, July 13. Students will present their idea at an evening dinner event to a panel of judges at THE SANDBOX Goleta (69 Santa Felicia Drive). Parents and family are invited to attend.
The program will introduce the steps needed to develop a startup or entrepreneurial venture and walk students through what is needed along the way to launch, grow and manage it. The week sessions are built around project based learning, classroom sessions, visits to companies and discussions with business leaders, entrepreneurs and startup companies.
Tools and techniques introduced can also apply to future school projects, leadership opportunities at their school, or volunteer experience opportunities.
Location:
The program will be held at UC Santa Barbara’s Mosher Alumni Hall.
Students should arrive on Monday, July 8 by 8:45am and check in for our 9:00am start.
Afternoons will include visits to companies throughout the Santa Barbara area. We’ll return to Alumni Hall at the end of the day. Attendees can ride with our bus, or take their own transportation.
Saturday’s Final Presentation will take place from 4pm to 8pm at THE SANDBOX Goleta (parents and friends are welcome to attend) dinner will be included.
Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Our kickoff session focuses on entrepreneurial practices with an emphasis on learning how to solve problems, find business ideas, evaluate the potential of the ideas, and how to recognize success. Exposure to the startup business structure and the uncertainties that exist.
Learning from Failing
Entrepreneurs consider failure to be a natural stepping stone to success. They celebrate failure, because they’ve learned firsthand that mistakes can be a great source for learning.
How Prototypes and Market Validation help build a better product or company
Learn to build basic versions of an idea to help you explain the idea and make sure there are customers who are interested in using, and paying for it!
Universal & Inclusive Design
Universal and inclusive design techniques are meant to help create products with everyone in mind. Whether creating buildings or developing products universal design encourages accessibility for the widest range of people!
Introduction to Business Models
A business model describes shows how an organization creates, delivers, and captures value for its customers. The process of business model construction is part of business strategy and is a sustainable way of doing business. The business model helps businesses survive over time and create a successful, perhaps even profitable, entity in the long run.
Introduction to Impact Entrepreneurship
A look at what it means to build an impact focused business.
Students will learn how mission-driven businesses solve social, environmental, or economic problems and/or create social value while also making money.
Building and Marketing a Brand
Creating a strong brand is one of the most important parts of business. In this course students will learn the elements of branding and how they apply to company culture, marketing and business success.
How Investment Works
Learn about the basics of the traditional investment opportunities for entrepreneurs, startup companies and small businesses.
Presenting and Elevator Pitches
Learning to present ideas and pitch your business are key skills or any entrepreneur. Using business ideas as a means for practicing your presentation techniques students improve their public speaking skills and gain confidence!
Monday
- Morning – Icebreaker, Individuals Pitch Ideas, Team Building
- Visit to Local Startup or Tech Company
Tuesday
- Morning – Icebreaker, Individuals Pitch Ideas, Team Building
- Visit to Local Startup or Tech Company
Wednesday
- Morning – Icebreaker, Individuals Pitch Ideas, Team Building
- Visit to Local Startup or Tech Company
Thursday
- Morning – Icebreaker, Individuals Pitch Ideas, Team Building
- Visit to Local Startup or Tech Company
Friday
- Morning – Icebreaker, Individuals Pitch Ideas, Team Building
- Visit to Local Startup or Tech Company
Saturday
- Morning – Icebreaker, Individuals Pitch Ideas, Team Building
- Visit to Local Startup or Tech Company
Companies and Organizations We Visited
