BELMONT University, known for its entrepreneurial emphasis throughout the business curriculum, has a unique way of teaching students on-the-job training -- its burgeoning Campus-Based Business Program featuring several student-created and student-run business ventures.

Each of the campus businesses collaborates with other programs on campus; for example, Boulevard, the photography and graphic design studio is run with the help of the Art Department. Belmont owns each of the campus businesses but doesn’t shield them from the realities of the market. Every campus business must pass the test of financial viability to continue on campus.

"Having the opportunity to manage a store for the past two years has showed me the real day-to-day ups and downs of being an entrepreneur. I wouldn't trade this priceless experience for anything."

Campus Business Program Provides Experience

Belmont’s student-run campus businesses offer a diverse set of entrepreneurial learning experiences for students who might not have the opportunity otherwise. Three of Belmont’s campus businesses are retail operations, including a designer clothing and accessories store and a newly created candy shop, located in 3,400 square feet of prime retail space in the student life building. The other ventures provide services to residents and businesses of the Nashville community. The Campus-Based Business Program involves as many as 60 students at any one time and provides immensely important experiences to all who participate.  

Lexi Nash, a Belmont entrepreneurship major and former manager of one of the campus-based businesses shared this about the program, "Having the opportunity to manage a store for the past two years has showed me the real day-to-day ups and downs of being an entrepreneur. I wouldn't trade this priceless experience for anything."