Nicolet College Launches Third Cohort of Start Your Own Business to Move Entrepreneurs from Idea to Action

Nicolet College is launching the third cohort of its “Start Your Own Business” course — an eight-week, hands-on experience designed to move aspiring entrepreneurs from idea to action. 

Beginning Tuesday, September 15, participants will meet for eight consecutive Tuesday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Nicolet College.  

Registration is open at nicoletcollege.edu/profdev. Seats are limited to ensure personalized attention and meaningful mentorship connections. The course cost for Wisconsin residents is $299, which includes the textbook. Senior and non-Wisconsin resident fees vary, see website for more information.  

The course is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to move from idea to launch, early-stage business owners seeking structure, and side hustlers looking to formalize and scale their vision. 

“This course provided me with practical resources to finish my business plan and pitch it to a group of professionals with confidence,” said Stephanie King, a graduate of the program. 

Learning to Build Real Businesses 

This program is built around hands-on, relevant activities for participants. By the end of the eight weeks, participants leave with: 

• A launch-ready business plan 
• A clear startup roadmap and action plan 
• A completed SWOT and market analysis 
• A live pitch presentation to potential funders 
• Weekly business journaling 
• One-on-one mentorship from an experienced business leader  

"Starting a business can feel overwhelming, especially when you don't know where to begin," said Ellen Mathein, dean of the School of Business & Entrepreneurship at Nicolet College. "This course surrounds participants with experienced mentors, practical tools, and a network of fellow entrepreneurs. Our goal is simple—to help people move from thinking about starting a business to actually building one." 

For more information, contact Ellen Mathein at (715) 365-4915 or emathein@nicoletcollege.edu.