Small Business Models
Essay
Objective: Distinguish types of small business models in context with local, national and global economic trends.
Introduction: A business model is an enterprise’s plan or diagram for how it competes and operates. In this lesson, you explore the different types of businesses and business models. You gain an understanding of market opportunities and how they are shaped by national and global economic trends. In the Mastery – should you choose to complete it – you have the opportunity to define your business model in the context of current market opportunities. 

The lesson first explores current business development concepts and approaches for small business startups. Different types of business models are described and the pros/cons of each model are evaluated. The lesson then broadens to an examination of the issues and trends in business across industries and the global economy. You examine business sectors, global opportunities, and niche market opportunities for new business ventures. You consider how your new business venture fits into a business sector and both local and global opportunities.
Deliverables: The essay for this lesson is required to be a minimum of 3- pages which clearly demonstrate your understanding of the activity. Essays should have a clear introduction, thesis statement and conclusion, written in APA format (APAstyle.org).

Activity Details:
Step 1: Read the following questions, and use what you have learned about Small Business Models to summarize your responses in a 3-page paper (APA formatting required):
Discuss the rise of international business and describe the major world marketplaces and trade agreements and alliances.


Explain how differences in import-export balances, exchange rates, and foreign competition determine the ways in which countries and businesses respond to the international environment.


What are the key barriers to international trade?