Methodology

Curriculum

The Carlson Ventures Enterprise (CVE) curriculum incorporates best practices from the Lean Entrepreneurship methodology and is heavily influenced by other frameworks, including Design Thinking, traditional corporate innovation, and risk investor analysis.

Our curriculum is delivered in traditional fashion and augmented by field trips, guest lectures, panel discussions, and in-class activities. Our goal is to enhance critical and creative thinking by providing analytical tools and a diverse set of perspectives from across the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Real World, Real Time

Experiential learning is at the core of what we do in this truly “teach then apply” environment.  We accomplish this through engagement in a diverse set of projects with real clients, addressing real problems and opportunities, all in real time.

CVE students typically work on two student-led, client-based projects during their time in the program and have the opportunity to work with start-ups, social ventures, and big company innovation initiatives.  

Professional Mentoring

One of the hallmarks of the Enterprise program is that students and student teams regularly interact with their Enterprise Director, discussing anything from client project progress, nuances in the curriculum, and career options.

Additional project support is available through the CVE Academic Director and other Carlson/U of M faculty.