BT 265 - Writing a Business Plan (Capstone)

3 Credit(s)

Prerequisite(s): BA 101, BA 131, BA 211, BA 214, BA 223

Course Description: This final capstone project allows students to integrate the four functional areas of business (accounting, finance, management, and marketing) by creating and presenting a fully developed, professional business plan and competitive strategy. The final business plan will follow the format of standard business plans, including the executive summary, company description, industry analysis, management plan, marketing plan, operational plan and financial plan. Students will also orally present their business plans to the class, using appropriate technology. Students will learn to work with other stakeholders in refining their plans through interviews with relevant local businesses, business associations and peer review.

Course Level: Career/Tech Preparatory

Course Learning Outcomes:

CLO#1: Research relevant industries and markets by using online research tools, communicating directly with companies and by analyzing available financial statements.
CLO#2: Compare and contrast the pros and cons of a sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporate forms of ownership. (ILO: Critical Thinking)
CLO#3: Explain the purpose of a professional business plan and describe the elements found in one.
CLO#4: Participate in a peer evaluation of professionally written business plans.
CLO#5: Deliver a concise and compelling presentation that “sells” the business plan.
CLO#6: Utilizing the business plan, make contacts and network with banks, investors, and potential partners.