Earlier this fall, our CEO students launched their first micro-business venture of the year: the Badge Business. Working in pairs, students were responsible for securing sponsors, designing identification badges featuring the CEO logo, and ensuring the project stayed within the established parameters. Each student contacted multiple businesses to sell advertising space on the badges or lanyards, engaging in thoughtful discussions about return on investment and the value offered to sponsors.

This venture required students to research costs, navigate real constraints, and manage details such as minimum orders, setup charges, and shipping.

Craig Lindvahl, architect of the CEO program, describes this project as a fundamental exercise in understanding revenue, expenses, and the realities of acquiring inventory.

Students were challenged to work independently, adapt when plans changed, and collaborate to meet deadlines. The Badge Business gives them practical insight into entrepreneurship and prepares them for the larger ventures ahead.

Big thanks to the following businesses for investing in our students: Embrace Consignment, Scanlon Excavating & Concrete, Inc., and Milner Media Partners WFAV 95.1, WVLI 92.7.