Dr. Kathleen R. Allen is the coordinator of the Undergraduate Entrepreneur Program at the Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies at the University of Southern California, Marshall School of Business, which was ranked by Success as the #1 Entrepreneur Program for Curriculum. She is a founding member of a commercial development firm, as well as a brokerage and a new high-technology manufacturing venture. Her expertise in new and emerging ventures, coupled with her experience in feasibility analysis and market research, has made her a valuable resource for many government agencies and businesses. In 1997, Dr. Allen was chosen as the National Spokesperson for the Microsoft Office Small Business Edition Campaign. The author of five books, she has also published numerous articles in prominent journals and magazines.

In Launching New Ventures, Allen prepares students to spearhead new initiatives--paying special attention to the process and activities required before a start-up can open for business. A conversational approach engages and encourages students to rely on this text as more than just a reference book. Real-world case studies, new venture checklists, plus Allen's own firsthand experience guide students through the logical process of recognizing an opportunity, testing a business concept, and implementing a formal business plan. Updated Case Studies and Entrepreneur Profiles showcase a range of high-profile start-ups and their founders, while accompanying discussion questions allow students to apply their analytical skills. The enhanced ancillary package--with new testing, video, and online resources--makes course management more efficient and learning more dynamic.