Joshua Knowles / Jennifer van der Meer

Most businesses achieve success without raising millions of dollars or becoming the
media darling start-up unicorn du jour. That’s what we’ll focus on: how can you corral
the resources you have available right now to turn an idea you’re passionate about into
a functional business?
Maybe you’re looking for a “lifestyle” business — something that fits into your existing
life and interests. Or maybe you do want to drive hard and compete, but you want to
run your business on your terms and for your benefit without being steered by
investors. Even if you do find the idea of hitting the VC jackpot compelling, you still
have to take your first baby steps and prove your business first.
Many ITP alums and professors have gone down this path of the smaller, independent
business with great success. We’ll explore how these businesses (and others) have
found their niches. And we’ll adapt methods from business school and startup
accelerators that optimize for focusing on customer needs, establishing a business
model, and validating your work by getting to that first sale. Join this class to work as
an individual or with a team.