Instructor Resource
Neck, Entrepreneurship, 1e
SAGE Publishing, 2018
Chapter Exercises and Projects
Chapter 14: Developing Networks
Chapter Learning Objectives:
14.2. Demonstrate the value of networks for entrepreneurs.
14.4. Illustrate the benefits of virtual networking.
14.5. Explain how networking can help to build the founding team.
Proposed Activities
Activity 1: Your network
(This can be done solo or as a team exercise; it can be used for online, face-to-face, or a
blended format)
Assess the status of your current social network. What are the strengths of your list?
What are potential areas of improvement? What type(s) of stakeholders are missing?
Learning Objectives:
14.2. Demonstrate the value of networks for entrepreneurs.
14.5. Explain how networking can help to build the founding team.
Instructor Resource
Neck, Entrepreneurship, 1e
SAGE Publishing, 2018
Activity 2: Networking
(This can be done solo or as a team exercise; it can be used for online, face–to-face, or a
blended format)
Learning Objectives:
14.2. Demonstrate the value of networks for entrepreneurs.
14.5. Explain how networking can help to build the founding team.
Activity 3: Networking Events
(This can be done solo or as a team exercise; it can be used for online, face–to-face, or a
blended format)
Research and identify a local or virtual networking event related to your field of study,
professional interests, or even hobby. Register for the event. In preparation read the
Learning Objectives:
14.1. Explain the role of networks in building social capital.
14.3. Describe several different ways of building networks.
14.5. Explain how networking can help to build the founding team.
Instructor Resource
Neck, Entrepreneurship, 1e
SAGE Publishing, 2018
Activity 4: Top Organizations for Entrepreneurs
(This can be done solo or as a team exercise; it can be used for online, face-to-face, or a
blended format)
Table 14.2
Top Organizations for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs’ Organization
(EO)
The world’s only peer–to-peer network solely for
entrepreneurs. Connects entrepreneurs with over
10,000 peers and offers opportunities to attend global
networking events.
(YEC)
part on mentorship discussions.
opportunities at events.
Young Entrepreneur Council
For entrepreneurs below the age of 40. Provides 24/7
Startup Grind
successful local founders, innovators and investors,
and has provided entrepreneurs with connections to
One of the largest organizations in the world and has
connected over 215,000 founders in 185 cities
internationally. It holds monthly events featuring
Association of Private
Enterprise Education (APEE)
An organization that provides entrepreneurship
education and information and offers annual
conferences as an opportunity to expand this
knowledge.
makers.
United States Association Small
Entrepreneurship community that focuses on:
Instructor Resource
Neck, Entrepreneurship, 1e
SAGE Publishing, 2018
Ashoka
For social entrepreneurs, Ashoka is the largest
network for entrepreneurs who want to change the
world. It provides startup financing and excellent
networking opportunities.
Learning Objectives:
14.1. Explain the role of networks in building social capital.
14.3. Describe several different ways of building networks.
14.5. Explain how networking can help to build the founding team.
Activity 5: VIRTUAL NETWORKING
(This can be done solo or as a team exercise; it can be used for online, face–to-face, or a
blended format)
What social media do you use now professionally? If you have an existing LinkedIn
Account, assess your profile–are there any gaps? What impression are you projecting?
Learning Objectives:
14.1. Explain the role of networks in building social capital.
14.3. Describe several different ways of building networks.
14.4. Illustrate the benefits of virtual networking.
Holds 10 events a year and gives entrepreneurs a
chance to network, swap ideas with peers, and listen
to influential speakers like Steve Blank and Guy
Kawasaki.
