Shirtsleeve Startup
Learn Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship with NAU
Northern Arizona University understands what it takes to begin a business. Enhance your professional development today by registering for NAU’s Shirtsleeve Startup—an affordable, self-paced, micro-credential program from a proven name in online education.
We meet you where you’re at. When you’re preparing to launch a small business, Shirtsleeve Startup will provide you with tools and skills to give you a strong foundation to successfully meet the challenges ahead.
After you complete this module, you’ll receive a digital badge to display on your electronic resume and online professional profiles for instant recognition of your entrepreneurial knowledge.
Course content
The first module, Shirtsleeve Startup, uses discussions, research, and assignments that build on one another and culminate in a pitch to investors. This structured approach will give you a better understanding of vital functions and topics regarding entrepreneurship:
- Read expense and revenue reports.
- Grasp legal issues.
- Define your target audience.
- Develop a competitive analysis.
- Determine strategies for marketing, operations, and distribution.
- Create a basic business plan.
- Consider your family in your venture.
Module developed by NAU faculty
Our accomplished faculty have extensive real-world experience that will help guide you to build a competitive edge.
Dr. Joy D’Angelo Accordion Closed
Dr. Joy D’Angelo is an Assistant Professor for Northern Arizona University’s Online & Innovative Educational Initiatives Department, teaching in the Master’s in Organizational Leadership, Bachelor’s in Industrial Leadership and Entrepreneurship Certificate programs. She is also the Program Director for NAU’s Industrial Leadership Bachelor’s Degree program. She has been a faculty member and Department Chair for over 15 years and holds both MBA and doctorate degrees. Prior to academia, she worked in corporate America while also running 3 small businesses. In addition, she has served as a Regional Economic Development Director and run operations serving the needs of small business owners. When not working, you may find her enjoying Arizona lakes kayaking and crayfishing. You can best contact her by email at joy.dangelo@nau.edu. She looks forward to coaching you on your small business venture.
Donna Bell Accordion Closed
Donna Bell is an Adjunct Professor for Northern Arizona University’s Online & Innovative Educational Initiatives Department, teaching in both the Industrial Leadership and Entrepreneurship programs. She has been teaching at the college level in entrepreneurship, management, marketing, team leadership, human resource management and creative problem solving for the past seven years. She holds Master’s Degrees in both Business and Education. Prior to teaching at the college level, for the past 30 years Professor Bell has held management positions in large corporations and also ran a consulting firm for Business Management and Employee Development. With her dual background in both business and education she is able to help students & entrepreneurs understand what it takes to be successful in today’s changing business world. When she is not teaching, Professor Bell likes to hike in the Sedona Red Rocks with her husband and friends. You can best contact her by email at donna.bell@nau.edu. She looks forward to coaching you on your small business venture.
Coursework is designed to provide products of value that students can put to use immediately in getting a startup moving. Access multimedia content in the way that best suits you—listen to podcasts, download files, or use our convenient online learning platform. Then complete the module within three months, working flexibly on your schedule.
Get started now
Put your big business idea on track to succeed today. This non-credit module is open to everyone.
Cost: $50
Once registered, you’ll receive immediate three-month access to course materials.