We take students from “zero” to revenue generation across 8, industry-specific sections
of ENTR 3180R. Over the course of 1 semester, students build their dream businesses
surrounded by like-minded peers and industry experts. Generally, one class a week
will be instructional, and the other will be dedicated time to work with teams and
mentors on business objectives. Community anchor partners provide funding for students
and participate as industry mentors.
In Fall 2025, 127 students made over $1.3 Million in just 16 weeks.
ENTR 3180R – Build a Business is a 3-credit course offered every fall, open to all majors — no business idea required. These courses are taught by industry experts, supported by generous sponsors, and designed to help you launch or grow a real venture. Students in the course are eligible to apply for seed funding to support their business. No tests. No quizzes. No busywork. Just real-world experience and results.
Topics may include finding and validating a business idea, understanding your customer, developing your product or service, pricing, branding and marketing, sales, social media, financials, and building a plan to get your business to revenue.
Business pre-requisites and holds can be waived (you may need to speak with a WSB advisor to process the override)
Special thanks to Zions Bank for providing funding that directly supports students in our program and helps them
turn their business ideas into reality.
Fall 2026 Courses
Turn skills like writing, design, or consulting into a solo business
MW 2:30-3:45 CRN 39407
In collaboration with
Create and sell physical products online
TR 10:00-11:15 CRN 39263
Build a business around art, media, or creative services
TR 2:30-3:45 CRN 42171
TR 4:00-5:15 CRN 42442
Start a service based business that can grow using automation or staff
TR 10:00-11:15 CRN 41192
In collaboration with
Launch a business in food products, restaurants, or catering
MW 2:30-3:45 CRN 39280
Partner to be announced
Start a clothing or accessory brand
MW 1:00-2:15 CRN 39281
In collaboration with
Build a company with a software or app product focused on scalability
TR 1:00-2:15 CRN 40692
In collaboration with
Build a business providing expert services to clients or companies
TR 11:30-12:45 CRN 39264
Do I need to already have a business idea?
You do not need to have a business idea before enrolling. You can come in with a fully formed business, a rough idea, or no idea at all, but you should have a direction by the first 2 weeks of school.
Do I have to be a business major?
No. The course is open to students from all majors.
I have an existing business of my own can I be in the class?
Yes, businesses at any stage can and should be in the class. If you’re just starting, the goal of the class will be to achieve revenue by the end of the semester. If you already have revenue, the goal will be to grow your business.
Can my business partner come to class too?
If they are a UVU student, yes, they can register and come to class. If they are not a UVU student, you’ll need to pass along what you’re learning after.
How does grading work?
Grading is mostly participation and attendance based. You will not be graded on the success of your business, but rather the effort you put in.
I don’t have money to start a business; can I still join?
Yes. There is funding built into this course for students who are working hard. The BEI also has pitch and funding opportunities to help you get started, and by the end of the program many companies have investors and raise capital.
I am out of town a lot or can’t make it to class regularly, is that okay?
This class has minimal assignments, and attendance is a large part of the grade. In person attendance is expected.
What does this count for on my transcript?
At minimum it counts as an elective. It also counts towards the Entrepreneurship Minor. Talk to your advisor about options.
Does UVU take ownership of my business?
No. UVU does not take ownership or equity in your business.
Can I use the course to grow a business I already have?
Absolutely. You do not have to start from scratch. If you already have a business, the course can help you improve your strategy, increase sales, test new products or services, and build a plan for growth.
Who teaches the course?
The courses are taught with support from industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs who bring real-world knowledge into the classroom.
Mentors and sponsors interested in getting involved, please email us at [email protected]
