Project Overview
In collaboration with a client team of non-traditional entrepreneurs, I designed a modular, beginner-friendly entrepreneurship course to be used in both print and mobile formats.
The goal was to create an accessible, practical resource for first-time and early-stage entrepreneurs, especially those from non-traditional or underrepresented backgrounds. We built this course with flexibility in mind, empowering users to learn at their own pace or in group settings like classrooms or workshops, while also ensuring it was positioned as a strong candidate for private and charitable funding.
Role & Responsibilities
Product Design | UX Design for Mobile Web App | Graphic & Print Design | Proposal Writing
As the designer, I led the product and instructional design for a flexible, beginner-friendly entrepreneurship course, ensuring it worked seamlessly across both print and mobile formats. I developed the curriculum structure, created accessible and visually engaging materials, and crafted clear funding proposals to attract investors. Through user research and testing, I ensured the solution met diverse needs while maintaining an approachable, professional tone.
Project Scope
We started from scratch, developing a beginner-focused curriculum on a tight timeline and with no initial funding.
The MVP had to guide users through their first year of planning and operations, addressing their most pressing questions and challenges. We also had to ensure the solution was modular and scalable, appealing to potential funders and adaptable for future enhancements like app development, workshops, and mentorship programs.
The Challenge
We needed to create a course that was practical, beginner-friendly, and accessible to a wide range of users with little or no prior business experience.
It had to adapt seamlessly to both print and mobile formats, so it could be used in different ways—whether self-guided, in classrooms, or through mentorship programs. At the same time, we wanted the tone to feel empowering and approachable, striking a balance between thoroughness and encouragement. Finally, we designed the course to be scalable, positioning it as a strong candidate for funding and further development.
Users & Audience
Aspirational and first-time entrepreneurs: Adults and teens who might lack formal business education or feel unsure about their abilities, often balancing entrepreneurship with other obligations.
Non-traditional entrepreneurs: Individuals from underrepresented demographics, such as women, people of color, and working-class communities, who might not see themselves reflected in traditional business environments.
Teenagers and students: Young learners exploring entrepreneurship through hobbies or passions but often lacking resources or professional networks.
Repeat entrepreneurs: People looking for structured resources to refine or scale their ventures.
Partners and funders: Organizations interested in supporting accessible and scalable entrepreneurship education initiatives.
The Process
1. Research and Exploration
I began by researching market gaps and user needs, speaking with aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and even experienced business owners. It became clear that most existing resources were either too vague, overly technical, or geared toward people with formal business training. I also explored how we could position this project to attract funding, researching potential investors and looking at successful projects from similar organizations.
2. Drafting Content and Structure
Next, I drafted the curriculum’s structure and started building out worksheets, templates, and supporting materials. My focus was on creating a step-by-step guide that made business concepts feel approachable and empowering. At the same time, I developed initial branding and marketing materials to ensure everything felt cohesive.
3. Developing Mid-Fidelity Content
I refined the curriculum by adding practical exercises and templates that addressed users’ real-world needs. I aimed to make the content both comprehensive and easy to personalize, so users could feel a sense of ownership over their learning experience.
4. Visual and Print Design
We developed the course’s visual identity, including logos, graphics, and layouts, to make everything clear, engaging, and professional. I gathered feedback from users and stakeholders during this phase to ensure the visuals matched the course’s tone and purpose.
5. Collaboration and Feedback
I worked closely with the client team and potential users to test and refine the curriculum. Through several rounds of feedback and iteration, we adjusted the materials to better address users’ challenges and preferences.
6. Finalization and Delivery
Finally, I polished all the materials, including the curriculum, visuals, and supporting assets. I also prepared tailored funding proposals and investor slide decks, showcasing the course’s scalability and potential impact to different audiences.
Outcome & Insights
Key takeaways from this project include:
We secured seed funding to further develop the course, including plans to create a native app, add advanced modules, and launch mentorship programs.
This project highlighted how important it is to balance flexibility and thoroughness. By designing for diverse users and prioritizing accessibility, we created something that could truly empower first-time entrepreneurs.
In the future, I’d love to expand this work by offering modules for advanced business planning, goal tracking, and data analysis, as well as multi-language versions and in-person workshops. This project is just the beginning!