What is VEI? A class with emphasis on college and career readiness In-school, live, global business simulation that offers: Students a competitive edge through project-based collaborative learning Development of 21st-century skills in entrepreneurship Global business, proble m solving, and communication Personal finance and technology. Drawing on the European tradition of apprenticeships, this multidimensional, experiential learning model, which is part of a global network of student-run businesses in over 40 countries Transforms high school students into independent-thinking business professionals and their classrooms into offices. See https://veinternational.org for more information about the VEI program.

How does it work in the classroom? Students select to work in different departments of their businesses, typically Administration, Accounting/Finance, Sales, Marketing, Human Resources and IT. The class selects a CEO and managers who oversee each department. Working in teams to make decisions about how to complete their departmental tasks in support of company goals and objectives, students learn from both their successes and mistakes. As “employees” of the virtual business, students are accountable for its performance. They conduct market research, work cooperatively to develop and write a business plan, design and implement an e-commerce website, pay wages and taxes, maintain 401(k) plans, and develop an annual report at the end of the year. Through all of these activities, VEI students learn professionalism, business acumen, corporate knowledge, presentation skills, and teamwork. Through their business and trade across industries, borders, and cultures, students develop hands-on knowledge of the expectations of both the workplace and the global economy. VEI firms engage in trade with 5,000 other Virtual Enterprise firms around the nation and across the globe. The transfer of funds is made electronically through a web-based simulated banking system that links all U.S.-based VEI firms with each other and with Virtual Enterprise firms worldwide.