Welcome to the Entrepreneur Career Community!
As a graduate with a degree in entrepreneurship, you are well-equipped to embark on a variety of exciting career paths!
What Can I Do With My Degree As An Entrepreneur?
You may choose to become an entrepreneur & find there are lots of career options! You could start by founding and managing your own startup or business venture. Alternatively, you can pursue roles in business development, working for established companies to identify growth opportunities, develop strategic partnerships, and drive innovation. You may also explore careers in venture capital or angel investing, where you assess and invest in promising startup ventures.
Another avenue is consulting, offering entrepreneurial expertise to help businesses enhance their strategies, operations, and overall success. You might also consider roles in corporate innovation, where you work within large organizations to foster a culture of creativity and drive initiatives that lead to new business opportunities.
Lastly, as an entrepreneur graduate, you may become an educator, sharing your knowledge and experiences by teaching entrepreneurship or business-related courses at academic institutions. Some of the career paths below may require you to possess additional experience, skills, degrees, certifications, or micro-credentials contingent on your chosen area of expertise.
Explore Career Paths
Business Development Associate: Entry-level business development associates support the growth of a company by identifying new business opportunities, building relationships, and contributing to strategic initiatives.
Startup Coordinator: Startup coordinators assist in the day-to-day operations of a startup, handling administrative tasks, coordinating events, and supporting various aspects of business development.
Entrepreneurial Intern: Entrepreneurial interns gain hands-on experience in a startup or entrepreneurial environment, contributing to various projects and learning key aspects of business development and management.
Sales Representative (Entry Level): Entry-level sales representatives focus on promoting and selling products or services. In an entrepreneurial context, they may work for startups, helping to establish and grow the customer base.
Marketing Assistant for Startups: Marketing assistants for startups provide support in implementing marketing strategies, managing social media, and contributing to promotional efforts to increase brand visibility.
Customer Success Associate: Entry-level customer success associates work to ensure customer satisfaction and retention. In a startup setting, they may play a crucial role in building and maintaining relationships with early customers.
Operations Assistant for Small Business: Operations assistants support the day-to-day operations of small businesses or startups, handling logistics, organization, and contributing to the efficient functioning of the entrepreneurial venture.
Entrepreneurial Research Analyst: Research analysts in entrepreneurship focus on market research, competitive analysis, and gathering insights to inform business strategies and decision-making for startups.
Startup Finance Assistant: Finance assistants in startups contribute to financial management, handling tasks such as budgeting, expense tracking, and financial analysis to support the financial health of the entrepreneurial venture.
Small Business Consultant Assistant: Assistant small business consultants work with experienced consultants to provide support in advising entrepreneurs on various aspects of business development, strategy, and operational efficiency.
Small Business Consultant Assistant: Assistant small business consultants work with experienced consultants to provide support in advising entrepreneurs on various aspects of business development, strategy, and operational efficiency.
Business Development Manager: Mid-career business development managers lead the expansion and growth of a company by identifying new opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and overseeing the execution of business development initiatives.
Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR): Entrepreneurs in residence typically have previous startup experience and work within organizations or venture capital firms to provide strategic guidance, mentorship, and hands-on support to startups.
Product Manager – Entrepreneurial Ventures: Mid-career product managers in entrepreneurial ventures oversee the development and management of products, ensuring they align with market needs, contribute to business growth, and meet strategic goals.
Innovation Manager: Innovation managers lead initiatives within organizations to drive creativity, implement new ideas, and foster a culture of innovation. They work to identify opportunities for entrepreneurial initiatives that can lead to business growth.
Venture Capital Associate: Mid-career venture capital associates work with venture capital firms to assess investment opportunities, conduct due diligence on startups, and contribute to the decision-making process for investments.
Corporate Entrepreneurship Manager: Managers of corporate entrepreneurship programs work within established companies to encourage and support internal innovation, helping to incubate and develop new business initiatives.
Entrepreneurial Educator: Mid-career entrepreneurial educators teach and mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing their knowledge and experiences to guide students or professionals in developing their entrepreneurial skills and mindset.
Small Business Owner/Operator: Mid-career professionals may choose to become small business owners, either by starting their own venture or acquiring an existing business. They are responsible for the overall management and success of the business.
Startup Operations Manager: Operations managers in startups oversee the day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency and coordination across various functions. They play a critical role in scaling operations as the entrepreneurial venture grows.
Social Entrepreneur: Mid-career social entrepreneurs establish ventures with a mission to address social or environmental issues. They combine business principles with a commitment to positive societal impact in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Senior-level CEOs are the top executives responsible for the overall leadership and strategic direction of a company. They make critical decisions, set organizational goals, and ensure the success and growth of the entrepreneurial venture.
Chief Innovation Officer (CINO): Chief Innovation Officers lead the innovation strategy within an organization, identifying opportunities for growth, overseeing new product development, and fostering a culture of continuous innovation.
Entrepreneurial Advisor: Senior entrepreneurial advisors provide strategic guidance and mentorship to startups and entrepreneurs. They leverage their extensive experience to offer insights on business strategy, growth, and overcoming challenges.
Angel Investor: Senior angel investors use their wealth and expertise to invest in early-stage startups, providing funding, mentorship, and strategic support to help these ventures succeed.
Chief Growth Officer (CGO): Chief Growth Officers focus on driving overall business growth through strategic initiatives, including new market entries, partnerships, and innovative business development strategies.
Venture Capital Partner: Senior venture capital partners play a key role in investment decision-making within venture capital firms. They provide leadership, contribute to investment strategies, and help guide portfolio companies to success.
Serial Entrepreneur: Serial entrepreneurs are individuals who have founded and led multiple successful ventures over their career. They leverage their experience to identify and launch new entrepreneurial initiatives.
Corporate Development Executive: Senior corporate development executives lead initiatives related to mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships within established companies, driving growth through strategic business expansions.
Board Member/Advisor for Startups: Senior professionals may serve as board members or advisors for startups, offering strategic insights, industry knowledge, and mentorship to guide the entrepreneurial venture.
Founder and Chairman: Founders who transition to the role of chairman continue to provide leadership and strategic oversight to the company, leveraging their vision and experience to contribute to the long-term success of the business.
Entrepreneurs can benefit from joining professional associations that provide networking opportunities, resources, and support for business development. These professional associations offer valuable opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with peers, access resources, and stay informed about industry trends and policy developments. Joining such associations can contribute to the growth and success of entrepreneurial ventures. Here are ten prominent professional associations for entrepreneurs:
- Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO):
- Website: EO
- Description: EO is a global network of entrepreneurs offering peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and networking.
- Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC):
- Website: YEC
- Description: YEC is an invitation-only community for young entrepreneurs, providing mentorship and resources.
- National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO):
- Website: NAWBO
- Description: NAWBO supports women entrepreneurs by providing networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources.
- Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO):
- Website: AEO
- Description: AEO focuses on microbusiness development, providing resources and support for small business owners.
- National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB):
- Website: NFIB
- Description: NFIB advocates for small and independent businesses, offering resources and representation.
- Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council):
- Website: SBE Council
- Description: SBE Council advocates for policies that support entrepreneurship and provides resources for small businesses.
- United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE):
- Website: USASBE
- Description: USASBE is dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship education and research.
- National Venture Capital Association (NVCA):
- Website: NVCA
- Description: NVCA represents venture capital firms and provides resources for entrepreneurs seeking funding.
- Startup Grind:
- Website: Startup Grind
- Description: Startup Grind is a global community that connects entrepreneurs through events, networking, and resources.
- Small Business Majority:
- Website: Small Business Majority
- Description: Small Business Majority advocates for policies supporting small businesses and provides educational resources.
Entrepreneurs often seek certifications and micro-credentials to enhance their skills, knowledge, and credibility in the business world. When choosing certifications or micro-credentials, consider your specific entrepreneurial goals, industry focus, and areas where you want to enhance your skills. These programs can provide valuable insights, frameworks, and connections to support your entrepreneurial journey. Here are some top recommended certifications and micro-credentials for entrepreneurs:
Certifications:
- Certified Small Business Owner (CSBO):
- Offered by the National Institute of Small Business Owners, this certification validates the skills and knowledge essential for small business success.
- Entrepreneurship and Business Planning Certification (SCORE):
- SCORE provides a certification program focused on entrepreneurship, business planning, and strategic management.
- Certified Franchise Executive (CFE):
- Offered by the International Franchise Association (IFA), this certification is for entrepreneurs in the franchising industry.
- Certified Professional Innovator (CPI):
- Offered by the Disruptive Strategy Company, this certification focuses on teaching entrepreneurial innovation and strategy.
- Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP):
- Provided by the Digital Marketing Institute, this certification is valuable for entrepreneurs looking to enhance their digital marketing skills.
- Certified Professional in Entrepreneurship (CPE):
- Offered by the Society of Business Practitioners, this certification covers various aspects of entrepreneurship and business management.
Micro-Credentials:
- Google for Startups Campus Residency Program:
- Google for Startups offers a residency program providing mentorship and resources for early-stage entrepreneurs.
- LinkedIn Learning Entrepreneurship Courses:
- LinkedIn Learning offers various courses covering entrepreneurship, business strategy, and leadership skills.
- Coursera Specialization in Entrepreneurship (University of Pennsylvania):
- This specialization covers key entrepreneurship concepts and strategies.
- edX MicroMasters Program in Entrepreneurship (MIT):
- The program from MIT covers entrepreneurship, innovation, and business strategy.
- Startup Leadership Program (SLP) Fellowship:
- SLP offers a fellowship program for entrepreneurs to develop leadership skills and scale their businesses.
- Y Combinator Startup School:
- Y Combinator’s Startup School provides online resources and advice for entrepreneurs, covering various aspects of startup development.
- Stanford Ignite:
- Stanford Ignite offers an innovation and entrepreneurship program for professionals looking to develop entrepreneurial skills.
- Kauffman FastTrac NewVenture Program:
- FastTrac offers a NewVenture program to guide entrepreneurs through the process of starting and growing a business.
- Babson College’s Women Innovating Now (WIN) Lab:
- WIN Lab is an accelerator program designed to support and empower women entrepreneurs.
- IDEO U Entrepreneurship Courses:
- IDEO U offers courses on design thinking and entrepreneurship, providing practical insights for innovative ventures.
Entrepreneurs need a diverse set of skills and tools to successfully navigate the complexities of starting and running a business. Entrepreneurs often wear multiple hats and need a versatile skill set to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. The software tools and skills mentioned above can help streamline operations, enhance productivity, and contribute to the overall success of an entrepreneurial venture. Here are some recommended software tools and skills for entrepreneurs:
Software Tools:
- Communication and Collaboration:
- Slack: For team communication and collaboration.
- Zoom or Microsoft Teams: Video conferencing tools for virtual meetings.
- Project Management:
- Trello or Asana: For organizing tasks and managing projects.
- Monday.com: A versatile project management tool.
- Productivity and Time Management:
- Todoist or Any.do: Task management tools for personal and team productivity.
- RescueTime: Monitors time spent on different applications and websites.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM):
- HubSpot CRM or Salesforce: For managing customer relationships and sales processes.
- Financial Management:
- QuickBooks or Xero: Accounting software for financial management.
- Expensify: Expense tracking and reporting tool.
- Social Media Management:
- Hootsuite or Buffer: For scheduling and managing social media posts.
- Canva: Design tool for creating social media graphics.
- Email Marketing:
- Mailchimp or Constant Contact: Platforms for email marketing campaigns.
- SendGrid: Email delivery and management service.
- Website Development:
- WordPress or Wix: Platforms for building and managing websites.
- Shopify: E-commerce platform for online businesses.
- Data Analytics:
- Google Analytics: Analyzes website traffic and user behavior.
- Tableau or Power BI: Data visualization tools for business analytics.
- Cybersecurity:
- LastPass or 1Password: Password management tools for security.
- Norton or McAfee: Antivirus software for digital protection.
Skills:
- Adaptability:
- The ability to pivot and adapt to changing circumstances.
- Leadership:
- Inspiring and guiding a team toward achieving business goals.
- Financial Literacy:
- Understanding financial statements, budgeting, and financial planning.
- Marketing and Sales:
- Knowledge of effective marketing strategies and sales techniques.
- Negotiation:
- The ability to negotiate deals, partnerships, and contracts.
- Networking:
- Building and maintaining relationships with other professionals and potential partners.
- Problem-Solving:
- Analyzing challenges and finding effective solutions.
- Decision-Making:
- Making sound decisions based on analysis and intuition.
- Customer Focus:
- Understanding and meeting customer needs and expectations.
- Risk Management:
- Assessing and managing risks associated with business decisions.
- Time Management:
- Prioritizing tasks and managing time efficiently.
- Communication Skills:
- Effective communication with team members, customers, and stakeholders.
- Digital Marketing:
- Understanding online marketing channels and strategies.
- Tech Savvy:
- Basic proficiency in using digital tools and platforms.
- Continuous Learning:
- Staying updated on industry trends and acquiring new skills.
Freelance Considerations & Resources
Freelancers can obtain medical, dental, and vision care through a variety of options tailored to their needs and budgets. Here are several strategies:
- Health Insurance Marketplaces
Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplaces: Freelancers can purchase health insurance through state or federal marketplaces. Open enrollment typically occurs annually, but freelancers may qualify for special enrollment periods due to life events (e.g., moving, getting married).
Subsidies: Depending on income, freelancers may qualify for subsidies to reduce premium costs. - Freelancer-Specific Organizations
Groups like Freelancers Union or Local Chambers of Commerce offer access to group insurance plans, which may be more affordable than individual plans.
Some professional associations in specific industries also offer discounted health plans. - Short-Term or Catastrophic Insurance
These plans offer limited coverage for unexpected emergencies and can be an affordable option for those who are primarily concerned about major medical expenses. - Health Sharing Ministries or Cooperatives
These organizations pool resources among members to cover medical costs. While not insurance, they can be a lower-cost alternative. Note that these plans may have restrictions based on religious or lifestyle criteria. - State-Sponsored Programs
Depending on the state, there may be health programs specifically for low-income individuals or families, such as Medicaid or CHIP (for children). - Direct Primary Care (DPC) Memberships
DPC practices charge a flat monthly fee for basic medical services like check-ups, labs, and minor treatments. This model doesn’t include hospitalization or specialist care but can complement catastrophic insurance. - Dental and Vision Insurance
Freelancers can purchase stand-alone dental and vision insurance plans through private insurers or the ACA marketplaces.
Discount plans or in-network savings programs can reduce the cost of routine dental and vision care. - Telemedicine Services
Services like Teladoc or MDLIVE provide remote consultations at affordable rates, which can reduce the need for in-person visits for minor issues. - Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
If enrolled in a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), freelancers can contribute pre-tax dollars to an HSA to save for medical expenses. - Community Health Clinics
Many cities offer low-cost or sliding-scale medical, dental, and vision services through community health centers. - Additional Tips:
Comparison Shopping: Use websites like Healthcare.gov, eHealthInsurance, or Policygenius to compare plans.
Bundling Services: Some insurers offer discounts when bundling medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Tax Deductions: Freelancers can deduct health insurance premiums on their taxes, reducing the financial burden.
Freelancers can prepare for retirement by taking proactive steps to save and invest strategically, given that they don’t have access to employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s. Here are some key strategies for freelancers to secure their retirement:
1. Set Up a Retirement Account
Freelancers have access to various tax-advantaged retirement accounts designed for self-employed individuals:
- SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension IRA):
- Allows contributions of up to 25% of net earnings or $66,000 (for 2023), whichever is less.
- Contributions are tax-deductible, and funds grow tax-deferred.
- Solo 401(k):
- Available for self-employed individuals with no employees (other than a spouse).
- Allows contributions as both employer and employee, with a combined limit of $66,000 (for 2023) or $73,500 if age 50+.
- Can choose traditional (pre-tax) or Roth (post-tax) contributions.
- Traditional or Roth IRA:
- Annual contribution limit of $6,500 (for 2023), or $7,500 if age 50+.
- Roth IRA contributions grow tax-free and are tax-free upon withdrawal in retirement.
2. Automate Savings
- Set up automatic transfers to retirement accounts monthly or quarterly to ensure consistency.
- Aim to save at least 15-20% of your income, adjusting based on your financial situation and retirement goals.
3. Diversify Investments
- Invest in a mix of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or ETFs to balance risk and growth potential.
- Consider target-date funds, which automatically adjust the asset allocation as you approach retirement.
4. Build a Health Savings Account (HSA)
- If you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), contribute to an HSA.
- Contributions are tax-deductible, grow tax-free, and can be withdrawn tax-free for medical expenses. After age 65, funds can be used for non-medical expenses without penalty (though taxes apply).
5. Create a Budget and Track Expenses
- Understand your income and expenses to determine how much you can realistically save for retirement.
- Adjust spending habits to prioritize retirement savings.
6. Establish an Emergency Fund
- Save 3-6 months’ worth of expenses to protect against unexpected income gaps, reducing the need to dip into retirement savings early.
7. Plan for Social Security
- Freelancers pay both the employer and employee portions of Social Security taxes (15.3%).
- Ensure accurate tax reporting to maximize Social Security benefits during retirement.
8. Work with a Financial Advisor
- A financial planner specializing in self-employment can help you create a tailored retirement strategy and navigate tax implications.
9. Consider Alternative Income Streams
- Invest in rental properties, dividend-paying stocks, or other passive income sources to supplement retirement savings.
- Continue freelancing part-time during retirement, if desired, to ease the transition.
10. Take Advantage of Tax Deductions
- Deduct business-related expenses to reduce taxable income, freeing up more funds for retirement contributions.
11. Revisit Your Plan Annually
- Reassess savings goals, investment performance, and retirement account contributions each year to ensure you’re on track.
Take Your Career Assessment Now
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If you have questions regarding your AWATO career assessment results, contact our SNHU Career Services team for help.
