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ENTR 100 and 260: Getting Started

This guide has resources for ENTR 100 and 260 classes doing company and industry research.

Research 101

As you begin your research, ask yourself:

  • What do you already know?
  • What do you NEED to know?
  • Do you need to identify companies and competitors?
  • Do you need to understand an industry?
  • Do you need background information on a product or service?
  • What specific terms and/or phrases are unique to the industry?

Think about "who cares" enough to compile, analyze and publish data on a particular business topic. Library databases contain articles from trade publications, peer-reviewed contents, analyst reports, and other value-added or vetted information. In addition, consider the following sources:
 

  • Trade associations
  • Government agencies at the Federal, State and Local levels
  • Market research firms/consulting firms
  • Local media

Why Use This Guide?

This guide includes resources for doing research in entrepreneurship classes, especially ENTR 100: Entrepreneurship & Innovation.

Use the tabs to navigate through the guide.
 

Researching Small Businesses

Small businesses are usually private companies. A private company is a company that's not traded on any stock exchange. Generally, private companies do not have to file documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC.)

Finding information on private companies can be quite challenging. If the company is very small and/or private, it may be necessary to piece the information together from many sources.

Andrea Koeppe

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Andrea Koeppe
she / her / hers


I am available for research questions and consultations via email and Zoom
Contact:
Charles J. Keffer Library | MOH 223
651-962-4647