Debunking 4 Myths about Entrepreneurship
In this special edition of Mythbusters, we’ll take a closer look at: intrapreneurship, social entrepreneurship, solo-preneurship and entrepreneurship.
First up, do entrepreneurs necessarily take lots of risks? Then, from leading change to creating a positive impact - is money the only source of motivation for entrepreneurs? Do all entrepreneurs need to obtain formal training or a business degree? And lastly, is the path to starting a business always clear?
But first, who are the Mythbusters? The team at uOttawa’s Entrepreneurship Hub. They don’t just tell the myths. They put them to the test!
Okay friends, first order of business. Being an entrepreneur doesn’t necessarily mean taking lots of risks. As an intrapreneur (no, we did not make a spelling mistake) you put forth your entrepreneurial mindset and bring all of your valuable entrepreneurial skills and qualities to the table at an existing organization. One of the main advantages of intrapreneurship is you don’t have to worry about starting a company from scratch or put any of your savings on the line.
In practical terms, intrapreneurship means being creative and innovative within your current workplace. It’s wanting to spark change in an existing organization, introduce new ideas and promote growth.
Lucky for you, the Entrepreneurship Hub (eHub) offers the Entrepreneurial Mindset Certificate (EMC) where we host a series of workshops designed to help you develop the skills and know-how to contribute to an entrepreneurial mindset! The workshops are focused on 3 different streams: skills, tools and networking. If you want to flex those intrapreneurial muscles (which let’s be real, you probably do) — enroll today!
So, no. Entrepreneurs don’t necessarily need to take lots of risks.
This myth has officially been DEBUNKED!
Being an entrepreneur and having an entrepreneurial mindset can also be combined with making a difference and creating positive impact in the world. Social entrepreneurs are known as those who strive to solve a social issue by creating a solution in the form of a social enterprise or venture. In which case, their entrepreneurial goals are not motivated by money, but rather by leading change!
Whether you’re looking to reduce waste by creating eco-responsible solutions for the mailing industry or perhaps you’d like to launch an after-school skills program for at-risk youth — social entrepreneurship is the answer! If your core mission is to spark change, making a living making a difference is possible.
Our Become a Change Maker Bootcamp, typically offered twice per year, is designed to help you discover the know-how and skills that social entrepreneurs require to launch their businesses or initiatives creating meaningful impact. The program has been shaped with social, environmental and cultural disruptors in mind. Through activities and workshops, this bootcamp will help you turn your idea into a positive impact!
Again… Myth DEBUNKED!
Whether you’re an arts, social sciences, medicine or law student, entrepreneurship can become your career path! Simply put, you don’t need to be a business student to be an entrepreneur. An entrepreneurial mindset is like a muscle and all it needs is a bit of work and effort to grow. You have the power to start your own small business and be your own boss — we can help!
As its name implies, solo-preneurship refers to those starting a small business, firm, consultancy or practice … well … on your own!
If you’ve considered starting your own business as a consultant, artist or freelancer after graduation, consider our second bootcamp designed to help you build your own career! It’s called… Wait for it… The Build Your Own Career Bootcamp. Offered twice a year, this condensed series of workshops will provide you with tips, tricks and tools presented by industry experts!
DEBUNKED!
Last but not least, entrepreneurship is about leveraging what you know and surrounding yourself with people who can help fill the gaps. Entrepreneurs don’t always know where they want to go and how to achieve their goals.
In fact, in the very beginning stages of turning your business idea into an actual business can be intimidating and a tad confusing. If you have next “big” idea, it doesn’t mean you need to know exactly how to make it come to life. Starting a business is a process full of decisions and adjustments — but the good news is, you don’t need to have all of the answers from the get-go. That’s where we come in!
Our team works diligently with students every summer to help them get their business off the ground. Startup Garage is a 4-month pre-accelerator program designed to launch your startup by providing you with funds, mentorship sessions, training in key areas in your business! Learn more about Startup Garage today!
Say it with me: DEBUNKED!
With all of that said… we believe in you! We know you can develop the entrepreneurial mindset everyone fancy’s. Don’t forget to follow us on socials to get the latest program an event updates! We’re here to support you, no matter which entrepreneurial path you decide to take!
Busted.
*This feature was published as a part of uOttawa Career Week, 2021.
