The annual business plan challenge that is a core component of RE’s AP Macroeconomics/ Microeconomics course allows students to delve into entrepreneurship, challenging them to think big, cross disciplines and tackle problems whose answers aren’t in a textbook. Calling upon their knowledge of science, math, the social sciences, arts and other disciplines, RE students work in teams to identify real problems, test hypotheses, conduct research, develop evidence-based solutions and communicate essential elements of their plans.
In recent years, students have created removable laptop covers (CamBlok!) to prevent cyber-mischief. They created HobbyBox, a pandemic-inspired subscription designed to bring fun activities to consumers’ doorsteps. They designed PetFit, heath and wellness harnesses for pets. Participants in the business challenge get invaluable feedback from RE alumni, who challenge them to improve their designs, marketing, financial projections and more.