Empowering The Future
At De Smet Jesuit, entrepreneurship is about more than launching a business—it's about forming young men who can lead with integrity, think creatively, and act with purpose. Through a unique blend of classroom instruction, hands-on business creation, and real-world mentorship, students grow into capable, confident leaders ready to make a difference.
Why Entrepreneurship?
Our entrepreneurship program sets De Smet Jesuit apart by offering transformative, real-world experiences that attract ambitious, high-potential students. Rooted in our Jesuit mission, the program challenges young men to lead with conscience—combining innovation with reflection, service, and ethical decision-making. It’s a dynamic space where students can explore their passions, build tangible skills, and stand out in the college admissions process. At the same time, it fosters meaningful connections with parents and alumni, making entrepreneurship a shared journey of growth and impact across generations.
Course Options
|
COURSE |
GRADE LEVEL | FOCUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Introduction to Business |
11-12 | Explore all Business Disciplines |
| Ignatian Business Leaders (Business 2) | 12 | Launch and run real businesses |
| Introduction to Entrepreneurship | 11-12 | Develop an entrepreneurial mindset |
| Economics | 11-12 | Learn how the economy works |
| Personal Finance | 11-12 | Build lifelong money management skills |
| Accounting (AVLI) | 12 | Master the language of business |
| The Art of Influence | 10-12 |
Present yourself and your ideas effectively |
| AI: Foundation & Ethics | 11-12 | Explore AI's business and ethical applications |
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
IDEA TO IMPACT CURRICULUM
Students move from brainstorming and market research to prototyping and pitching—all while grounded in values-based leadership.
SPARTAN START-UPS
A dedicated space where students launch real ventures, receive seed funding, and get coaching from business leaders.
MENTORSHIP NETWORK
Students gain access to a dynamic network of alumni, parents, and professionals for guidance, job shadowing, and long-term career connections.
COLLEGE & CAREER DIFFERENTIATION Entrepreneurial experience sets students apart on applications and resumes—demonstrating initiative, innovation, and leadership.
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Stephen P. Holmes '81
Center for Entrepreneurship
A Hub for Ethical Innovation
In August 2025, De Smet Jesuit proudly celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the Stephen P. Holmes Center For Entrepreneurship — a purpose-built space designed to empower students to innovate, experiment, and lead with integrity
Real-World Impact
Named in honor of alumnus Steve Holmes, our center offers:
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A centralized location to support student-led ventures, club activities, and our Summer Mentorship Program.
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Opportunities to engage with entrepreneurs, alumni, and business professionals in immersive learning environments
INSPIRED LEADERSHIP
Under the direction of Evan Snively '07, our Entrepreneurship Center not only hosts business coursework and student projects, but also fosters lasting alumni mentoring relationships that encourage student innovation and career readiness.
WHY IT MATTERS
This dedicated facility creates a tangible foundation for entrepreneurial education, bridging theory with practice, building leadership rooted in Jesuit values, and equipping students to launch ventures that make a difference.
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SUMMER MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Each summer, De Smet Jesuit partners students with local professionals, alumni, and entrepreneurs for a hands-on mentorship experience. Whether shadowing a CEO, assisting with product development, or sitting in on strategy meetings, students gain real-world exposure to careers in business, tech, finance, and more. This program not only builds professional skills but also strengthens college applications and sparks lifelong connections.
The entire experience was amazing... it made me think in ways I never had before.
Brendan Wahl '242025 Summer Mentorship Program Participant
Get Involved
Parents, alumni, and local business leaders play a vital role. From mentorship and speaking engagements to sponsoring competitions or offering internships, your support helps form the next generation of ethical innovators. Looking to get involved? Contact Evan Snively, Director of Entrepreneurship.
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