Build the skills to launch, grow, and lead businesses in communities of all sizes, from small towns to global markets.
BVU’s Small Business & Rural Entrepreneurship minor, through the Donald F. and Charlene K. Lamberti Entrepreneurial Center, prepares students to think like innovators and build like founders. Students gain hands-on experience exploring business ideas, developing business models, managing ventures, and solving real-world challenges alongside faculty and experienced business leaders.
Why study Entrepreneurship (Minor Only) at BVU
A BVU entrepreneurship (minor only) degree is built on applied learning, professional preparation, and personalized mentorship.
Bring Ideas to Life
Test real business ideas from day one.
Build Your Network
Connect with strong alumni and industry leaders.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
Fully funded travel, hands-on learning, and professional networking opportunities.
Personalized Pathways
Tailored mentorship to grow your ideas and skills.
Grow your Business. Grow your Network.
Each summer, four BVU students take part in the Okoboji Entrepreneurial Institute (OEI), where they develop their original business ideas or existing businesses through coaching from business leaders, engage in a community service project, visit local companies, and network while enjoying the Iowa Lakes region.
Learn by doing, from day one
Students build entrepreneurial skills through applied, real-world experiences across business creation, strategy, and leadership.
Explore entrepreneurship, ideation, marketing, and management fundamentals with opportunities to participate in conferences, competitions, and community projects.
Develop business models and plans, financial projects, and test real venture ideas.
Launch, refine, and scale ideas through practicums, internships, pitch competitions, and entrepreneurial experiences.
No matter the industry, beavers turn big ideas into meaningful ventures.
Turn an idea into reality.
Where this degree can take you
One-of-a-Kind Experience
Get real-world experience bringing ideas to life through BVU’s annual Degen Pitch Competition, where students develop, present, and iterate business ideas. Top teams have the opportunity to advance to several other area competitions, gaining experience pitching on a larger stage and competing with other top student entrepreneurs.
Curriculum Highlights
Your coursework is designed to build the knowledge and skills needed for success in your field. Click here for complete program requirements and course descriptions in the Academic Catalog.
Turn ideas into action.
Build something real at BVU.