Entrepreneurship Education

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
In partnership with the SOVA Innovation Hub and RISE (Regional Investment in Start-ups and Entrepreneurs)

At the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC), we believe entrepreneurship education builds more than business skills—it builds confidence, creativity, and a future-ready mindset that benefits students on all career paths. Through our partnership with RISE, we’re bringing real-world, flexible entrepreneurship experiences to middle and high school classrooms and student clubs across Southern Virginia. At this time, there is no cost to educators or students.

If you are an adult learner interested in entrepreneurship, free assistance is available through the Longwood Small Business Development Center.

Flexible Learning, Real-World Impact

Jocelyn Forest

Led by Jocelyn Forest, Entrepreneurship Education Coordinator and experienced educator, this initiative uses the CO.STARTERS Generator curriculum, a flexible, hands-on approach to learning the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Students explore how businesses work, develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills, and engage with topics like marketing, business finance, and customer discovery.

Designed for students in grades 6–12 (public, private, or homeschooled), this module-based program fits seamlessly into existing classes–from accounting and english to culinary arts and the trades–with no business background required from educators. Clubs like FBLA, DECA, and STEM-related organizations can also integrate the modules into meetings and club activities.

What Students Gain from Entrepreneurship Education

  • A deeper understanding of how businesses operate
  • Practical skills in finance, marketing, and operations
  • Creative problem-solving and decision-making experience
  • Stronger communication, teamwork, and leadership abilities
  • Confidence to pursue big ideas—whether or not they start a business

The entrepreneurial mindset is a foundation that serves students in any career path!

Delivery Options for Educators

Jocelyn will work with you to delivery entrepreneurship education with options to accommodate your schedule and goals.

A. One-Time Workshop
Great for special events or a single class period
Topics include:
• Introduction to Entrepreneurship
• Design Thinking Challenge
• Getting Started
Delivery: In-person or virtual
Location: Online, your school, or SVHEC

B. Generator Curriculum
Flexible modules covering:
• Business models
• Marketing
• Startup costs and financing
• Customer discovery
Formats:
• Weekly sessions (4–12 weeks)
• Group or individual learning
Delivery: In-person or virtual
Location: Online, your school, or SVHEC

C. Teacher Support & Mentorship
Want to integrate entrepreneurship into your existing curriculum? Jocelyn provides support every step of the way:
• Planning and customization
• Resources like videos, worksheets, and activities
• Co-facilitation or full delivery of content
• Post-delivery debrief and support

Who Can Access Entrepreneurship Training

Entrepreneurship education is a free resource available for educators and homeschooled students in any of the localities listed below:

Counties of Amelia, Brunswick, Buckingham, Charlotte County, Cumberland, Halifax, Henry, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Nottoway, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Prince Edward and the cities of Danville and Martinsville.

Homeschooled students may complete the content independently with mentorship from the Entrepreneurship Education Coordinator.

Let’s Work Together

Want to bring entrepreneurship to your classroom or club? Speak with Entrepreneurship Education Coordinator to get started.

Jocelyn Forest, Entrepreneurship Education Coordinator
434-572-5483