The INCubatorEDU program offers students an authentic entrepreneurship experience. In this program, students have the opportunity to create and fully develop their own product or service with guidance from real business professionals who serve as coaches and mentors.
Lean Startup processes of developing hypotheses about a business concept, testing those hypotheses, adapting, and further iteration are emphasized. This approach is used by a multitude of local businesses throughout Sheboygan County. The program also includes foundational business topics such as marketing and finance.
INCubatorEDU’s Points of Distinction:
- Blend of Lean Startup process with foundational business topics
- Authentic, real-world learning
- Hands-on problem solving
- Team teaching with classroom teacher, coaches, and mentors
- Ongoing professional development for classroom teachers and volunteers
Collaboration – Learn by Doing
Over two semesters, students work in teams and learn by doing. They develop a business model canvas, gain market input on a minimum viable product, and iterate all elements to improve their business plan.
Students are taught by a team: volunteer coaches, mentors, and the classroom teacher. Coaches provide authentic business expertise in a specific area. They come into the classroom for a short period of time (2-4 days) to provide all students with a real-world context for a specific curricular area. The coach and classroom teacher plan and present together. The coach’s focus is on curricular content, not war stories. Mentors are assigned to one team and follow them through the entire process providing students with feedback and encouragement. The classroom teacher is a certified teacher that manages the class and volunteers as well as provides continuity.
A charitable group, such as an educational foundation, may consider providing small grants (<$1,000/team) to the students so that business concepts may be introduced at the “Minimum Viable Product” stage (midyear) and students may gain in-market experience. The program culminates with a “Pitch” to investors. Student teams pitch their ideas to actual investors for funding to turn their business plans into reality during the summer and following school year.