From 1997-2003, this author managed a Small Business Development Center, providing free technical assistance to new and existing small businesses. She counseled hundreds of business clients during her tenure regarding successful business management. Based on her experience, she developed a 10-step business start-up program that brings the real world into the entrepreneurial classroom. This teaching concept presents the student with an understanding of the major principles and practices necessary to start a business venture. The instructor will focus on both theoretical and practical concepts. Students will have the opportunity to perform research and analyze data in order to open up their own business. They will complete financial forms that a small business owner must complete to obtain commercial lending. They will follow the steps an actual small business start-up owner follows to lay the foundation to opening their doors. This teaching tool has been used in both independent studies and traditional classroom teaching with positive student feedback.