Discover the Fundamentals of Local Enterprise
This pathway is designed for students who want to understand how businesses operate, grow, and support a community. We guide you step-by-step through the core principles of economic development, from foundational marketing strategies and customer service to the legal and logistical steps of starting a new business.
A Day in the Student-Led Enterprise
Inside this program, you will work alongside classmates to operate genuine, student-run campus businesses. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, our students manage projects across a variety of enterprises, including campus vending routes, custom screen printing, professional embroidery, and a large-format commercial printing shop. Your daily work involves managing customer accounts, sourcing materials, balancing project budgets, and developing real marketing campaigns.
If you participate in the Kokomo CEO (Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities) program, your learning expands beyond the classroom as you tour area businesses, learn directly from local owners, and develop an original business concept to showcase at our annual community trade show.
Where This Path Leads
By collaborating on real projects and serving actual clients in a supportive learning environment, you build practical communication, critical thinking, and financial management skills. Whether you plan to step directly into the local workforce, open your own local service business, or pursue a business degree in college, you graduate with a strong portfolio of real-world experience and a network of community connections.
