Students will explore the role of entrepreneurship in rural US and Italy, specifically in downtown districts. In light of the recent economic recession impacting global economies, it is essential that students gain an understanding of the role entrepreneurial activity plays in economic development. Students will analyze the cultural, historic, and geographic implications on small business and explore the role of local and state government in startup activity. Emphasis will be placed on exploring risk tolerance and perception of failure in new venture creation. Students will use on sight observation and interviews along with research from primary sources to develop a comparative study of the downtown districts in Urbania, Italy and Decatur, Illinois. This study will be used to develop opportunities to revitalize Downtown Decatur.

Satisfies International Cultures & Structures or IN350 requirement.

Travel course as part of Summer Program: Urbania, Italy 2013. All travel fees available at www.millikin.edu/entrepreneurship. Registration with Center for Entrepreneurship required. Deposit due March 1, 2013.