OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS PROJECT

INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS
OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL
You will develop a plan to create your own sole-proprietorship business in Owatonna. You will
present the following in a paper (Part A) and in a PowerPoint presentation (Part C). You will
also develop two (2) forms of advertisement for your company (Part B).
Part A You will type a paper in unbound report format. Do not forget to document your
sources for the References page at the end of the paper.
1. Company Description
Describe the business that will succeed in our area and your motivations for starting it
How will the ownership structure benefit your business? Sole Proprietorship
What is the name of your business? Why have you chosen it?
What resources will you need to start your business?
Describe your top three products and/or services.
What are some of your short- and long-term goals?
2. Business Characteristics
Pricing of products/services
Hours of operation
Location in town for your business.
1. Describe the location including other businesses in the area.
2. Include a map of the location.
3. Defend your reasons (at least 4) for choosing this location.
3. Evaluate your ability to compete in this industry
What is the condition of the industry and the economy as a whole?
What is the NEED for this product/service in Owatonna?
Name at least three competitors (direct and indirect).
1. Give two strengths of each.
2. Give two weaknesses of each.
Your businesss strengths
1. What special features of your business provide benefit to your customers?
2. How will you capitalize on your competitors weaknesses and overcome their
strengths?
How will you fulfill your social responsibilities?
4. Customer Analysis
Who is your target market? (location, number and resources)
Describe your customers. Where do they live, work, and play?
Based on the research of the target market, what is your sales forecast?

5. Develop specific marketing strategies to reach your target market

Describe your major marketing activities. (Page 199+)
How will you project a professional image?
What type of advertising will you use?
How will you network with other businesses, professionals and customers?
6. Describe your organization and human resources management (Chapter 15)
How many employees FTP, FTT, PTP, PTT.
List employee skills and education needed for each position.
How will you recruit employees?
What benefits will you offer?
Include an organizational chart.
7. Describe other aspects of your business as they apply.
e.g. technology, diversity, corporate culture, etc.
8. Defend your belief that the business will be successful in Owatonna
Consider the environment (future trends, economic, technological, social, and
political).
Consider all the aspects of your plan.
9. Include a reference page listing the resources that you used for this project
Part B
Create two (2) advertisements for your business from the choices below
1. Magazine, newspaper, flyer, webpage or brochure pick 1
2. Create a commercial or a radio advertisement and record on iPad pick 1
Part C
Your PowerPoint presentation will include:

the information in your paper in condensed format

from 10 to 12 slides in your presentation including your map and

organizational chart

When complete:
Save your presentation in your Google Drive folder
Check with Mr. Olson before printing
Print a handout for Mr. Olson with 6 slides per page