In this two quarter program, students will consider how to earn a living in a way that aligns with their values, develops their talents, and brings satisfaction through creative business endeavors.

We will explore the role played by business from an economic and societal perspective.  We will study major global trends in business, identifying opportunities for business that capitalize on those trends. We will study the social and environmental responsibility of business, and models of governance and operations in light of corporate responsibility, and we will look at a variety of entrepreneurial endeavors that inspire our imaginations and illuminate the qualities possessed by those who innovate and create, considering individuals' strengths and deepest longings in light of the economic demands made on our lives.

In fall quarter, students will be introduced to the creation and management of business, and essential functions including strategic planning, operations, marketing, human resources, finance and accounting. Students will develop business plans for their ideas for new business ventures. In the process, they will conduct market research and feasibility studies, and create start-up budgets and projections for operational revenue and expenses for the first few years of their proposed business. We will explore different ways of raising capital and the costs related to each option. Students will consult and advise with colleagues; and those wishing to do so may submit their projects for the Business Plan Competitions sponsored by the University of Washington.

In winter quarter, continuing students may further their work on their business plans or mentor incoming students for a business venture. We will follow the state legislative process to gain an understanding of the issues related to creating a healthy business environment in Washington state. We will study the state's incentives for community and economic development including public infrastructure, research, and economic concessions. We will learn a framework called ecological economics (Daly, et al) that values the assets in our bioregion for consideration in public policy and business decisions.

Throughout the program, students will learn key concepts of systems theory and develop skills in group process and collaboration.

Resources will include Osterwalder, Wheatley, Meadows, Ries, Blank, Thiel, Friedman, Diamandis, and others.