The Entrepreneurship Certificate is designed for aspiring business owners, independent contractors, creators, makers, and professionals seeking to launch or expand a business venture. Students learn how to evaluate opportunities, develop products and services, manage operations, build sales channels, and create sustainable business systems. 

 

Using AFI's Education-to-Employment (E2E) model, students develop a real-world business concept and move it through the complete process from concept to consumer.

 

Note:  This non-credit certificate program is appropriate for both apparel and non-apparel industries.

 

Course 1: Foundations of Entrepreneurship

Topics

• Introduction to Entrepreneurship

• Business Structures and Ownership

• Customer Discovery

• Business Ethics

• Introduction to Business Operations

Project

Develop a business concept and define target customer.

Course 2: Product Development and Merchandising

Topics

• Principles of Product Merchandising

• Product Selection and Development

• Pricing Strategies

• Branding Fundamentals

• Using AI for Market Research

• Product Life Cycle

Project

Create a product or service offering.

 

E2E Connection:
Students begin developing a marketable product, service, workshop, consulting business, or retail concept.

Course 3: Operations Management

Topics

• Project Management Fundamentals

• Creating Project Plans

• Workflow Development

• Time Management

• Managing Day-to-Day Operations

• Using AI Technology in Operations

• Microsoft Office Applications

Project

Develop an operational plan and implementation schedule.

 

E2E Connection:
Students build the systems required to deliver their product or service.

Course 4: Financial Management 

Topics

• Accounting Basics

• Cash Flow Fundamentals

• Budgeting

• Cost Analysis

• Sales Forecasting

• Inventory Concepts

• Funding Sources

Project

Develop a first-year business budget and revenue forecast.

 

E2E Connection:
Students learn whether the business can realistically support itself.

Course 5: Entrepreneurship Launch Lab Practicum

Final Project

Students complete and present an Entrepreneurship Portfolio containing:

• Business Concept

• Business Model

• Product or Service Plan

• Operational Plan

• Marketing Plan

• Financial Plan

• Launch Strategy

Students present their project to AFI staff, industry affiliates, or invited guests.