Educational Media Reviews Online

Originally shown on the Canadian Broadcast Corporation, Dianne Buckner, the host of Canada’s most popular business program, Venture, moderates this fast-paced, 12-part series analyzing new and emerging business and marketing trends and how today’s entrepreneurs are profiting from them. Each of the first eleven short DVD’s includes three parts: 1) introduction to a current trend (Trendtracker) and a small business or entrepreneur trying to cash in on it; 2) two experts then assess the trend and chances for the success of the new venture and others like it (Hit or Miss); 3) lastly, the story of a successful entrepreneur (My First Million). The last DVD program summarizes all the business trends and pulls together a top-ten list of tips for entrepreneurs. General types of businesses covered include green businesses, online, exotic foods, “mompreneurs”, franchises, and businesses targeting the Baby Boomers.

Video techniques and effects are above good television standards and are well planned and executed. Editing of the scenes in the businesses, factories, and workplaces is striking and well-selected. The interviews and presentations are concise, interesting and clear. The businesses and trends profiles were carefully chosen and provide engaging content for students and entrepreneurs. These DVDs are suitable for high school and college students as well as adults, and libraries will want to provide them for entrepreneurs and academic business departments.