This course builds non-mathematical models of success in the world of entrepreneurial business through intensive analyses of both archival and current cases. Students are required to analyze assigned cases carefully, develop and discuss current cases, and present a well-developed new business proposal to the class.

Emphasis is placed on creating a framework to analyze business opportunities of all sizes. The centerpiece is a set of models abstracted from the cases prepared during the course. These models allow students to categorize ideas quickly, discuss benefits, note problems, and ideally, predict performance.

The class is not a series of "nuts and bolts" lectures about running small businesses, nor is it a guest lecture series. Participants must be willing to become involved with the material and approach the topic with analytic rigor. From that effort, an organized way of thinking should evolve that will allow students to make better decisions on potential new venture proposals.

Please note that rescheduled class sessions will be required to allow for presentation of group projects to the class. See the Curriculum web page on the Chicago Booth Portal for details which vary by quarter regarding when these special sessions will be held.

Permission of instructor is required if a student has not completed one-half of the MBA program (at least 10 classes: strict).

It is mandatory to attend the first class session.

Electronic case materials posted on Canvas and current articles from the Wall Street Journal.

Based on quality of in-class participation; weekly written case work completed in study groups of three to five students (each paper limited to two pages); an individual case about a real entrepreneur (also limited to two pages); and study group presentations of original business start-up ideas.

Provisional grades will be available for those graduating.