Overview & Objectives
Students learn to identify business opportunities. Outcomes:
- Develop problem-solving skills
- Recognize market gaps
- Think creatively and innovatively
Theoretical Foundations
Entrepreneurs see problems as opportunities. Successful businesses address unmet needs creatively.
Key Techniques:
Observation
Look around for unmet needs.
Example: school vending machines lacking healthy snacks.
Brainstorming
Generate many ideas, even unusual ones.
SCAMPER Method
- Substitute
- Combine
- Adapt
- Modify
- Put to another use
- Eliminate
- Reverse
Problem-Solution Mapping
List problems and possible solutions side by side.
Why it matters:
- Spotting opportunities early gives a competitive advantage
- Innovation drives growth and customer satisfaction
Practical Exercises
- Create a problem-solution map
- Innovation challenge: solve a common school problem
- Peer feedback to refine ideas
Mini Case Study: "SnackBox"
Students notice vending machines lack healthy options, so they sell fruit boxes.
Summary & Key Takeaways
- Opportunities are everywhere if you observe carefully
- Creativity and problem-solving lead to successful businesses
- Simple solutions can become profitable ventures