Using Web-Based Technologies in a Graduate Class to Develop an Entrepreneurship Knowledge Portal

The purpose of this article is to share the experiences and lessons learned from an experimental graduate class using Web-based technologies that resulted in the development of a statewide entrepreneurship knowledge portal. Given the demands for Web-based systems and technologies to facilitate entrepreneurship, this class experience could be used as a model to help other states build or improve upon their entrepreneurial Web-based systems. The research was driven by the results of a comprehensive Kauffman Foundation study of Maine entrepreneurs’ needs. This article also explores issues and challenges associated with teaching a complex course using complex Web-based technologies, distance delivery techniques, and working with entrepreneurs to meet their needs.