First and foremost, Venture is run as a business. In place of the conventional classroom, it has its own store, complete with a street front retail space for students to sell their products or offer their services, a small workshop to produce inventory, a bank of computers, a reception and office area as well as its own boardroom. In addition to the products and services students develop individually, there are a variety of small and large group initiatives as well. Students are responsible for the day to day operation of the Venture store in all its aspects, from promotion, bookkeeping and inventory management to sales projections, dealing with the public and janitorial services. Venture is also involved in international trade through Achievers International and has formed its own company, Venture Enterprises International, for this purpose.
Students assume various positions and responsibilities within the company.
Venture is also partnering with existing businesses outside the West Hants area to provide products not available here. Students should be 29 or under and have a minimum of Grade 9 education, although exceptions can be made, depending on circumstances. Yes, every course in the 10 - 12 curriculum can be achieved through this program and credits gained have the same accreditation value as any achieved in a conventional high school setting. A high percentage of Nova Scotia's jobs come from small business. The number is increasing steadily and will continue to increase as traditional employment sources shrink or disappear.