Entrepreneurship

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain 

Welcome to Entrepreneurship
Our Entrepreneurship course gives students the knowledge and skills needed to own and operate their own businesses. Students will explore topics from multiple fields, including economics, marketing, human relations, psychology, business and labor law, and the legal rights and responsibilities of business ownership. The course also covers business and financial planning, finance and accounting, and effective communication. Through hands-on learning and real-world applications, students gain a foundation to turn ideas into successful business ventures and understand the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

Our Entrepreneurship class had an inspiring field trip to the Peoria NEXT Innovation Center!  Students got to see where ideas grow into real businesses, explore creative co-working spaces, and hear from local entrepreneurs about what it takes to launch a startup. 

Our Entrepreneurship class recently had the pleasure of welcoming Diana Natale, owner of Voilà Macarons. She shared her journey of turning her idea into a successful business and offered valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Students were able to ask questions and learn firsthand what it takes to build and operate a small business.

As a special treat, Diana brought macarons for the students to try, introducing some to this sweet delicacy for the first time. We are grateful she took time during her busy pre-holiday season to inspire our future entrepreneurs.

Our students recently had the opportunity to visit the Cinnamon Tree Farm in Brimfield, Illinois, for an in-depth business tour. The experience offered valuable insight into the operations of a family-owned Christmas tree farm and the many components that contribute to running a successful agricultural business.

During the tour, students learned about daily management practices, the importance of diversifying different branches of the business, and the farm’s strategies for standing out in a competitive market. They also heard about the owners’ plans for future expansion and how they continue to grow and adapt their business.

This field trip provided a meaningful connection between classroom instruction and real-world entrepreneurship. Students were able to see business concepts come to life and gain a deeper understanding of how innovation and strategic planning play a role in running a thriving small business.

Current Status - December 5, 2025