Defying the Odds: A Crash Course in Entrepreneurship

The Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center (CIMC), has recently published a crash course in entrepreneurship called "Defying the Odds." It consists of a workbook and six VHS tapes or DVDs. A Website of supplemental resources also is provided.

Six topics are covered including becoming an entrepreneur, developing a strategy, preparing the business plan and financials, building a team, raising capital, and developing the heart of the entrepreneur.

The purpose of "Defying the Odds" is to help entrepreneurs and those thinking about becoming entrepreneurs improve their odds for success in building a business. The workbook explains the importance of each topic to business success and asks questions that guide participants to a better understanding of their readiness for launching and growing a business.

Each of the six topics includes “5 Big Questions to Ask Yourself," with reflections on each provided by the author, Scott Klososky, a successful entrepreneur. The video (VHS or DVD) captures the author as he addresses a class of entrepreneurs on each of the topics. The video also includes presentations from guest speakers on related topics, including marketing, venture capital, and the impact of entrepreneurship on the family.

"Defying the Odds" is ideal as the foundation for a facilitated course. Training providers can use the video to supplement their local expert resources and can order additional workbooks to accommodate group instruction. Individuals can also use the workbook and video as a self-study resource.

In addition to the CIMC, "Defying the Odds" involved video production from Education Technology Resources (ETR) and from Rich Baim of Francis Tuttle Technology Center. Workbook layout is from Creative Services (Kim Hale), workbook printing from the Printing Plant, and video/DVD duplication from the CIMC Warehouse.

The workbook, VHS or DVD video, and extra workbooks are now available from Curriculum Customer Service, 800-654-4502, and from the online CIMC Catalog at www.okcareertech.org/cimc.www.okcareertech.org/cimc/