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What Type of Entrepreneur Are You? Asset Fox, Bootstrap Tortoise or MBA Hare?

Discover the business archetype you tend to follow. Learning more about you will help you in your entrepreneurial journey.

    So . . . You Want to Be an Entrepreneur?

    Discover what it takes to successfully start a business and grow it to the point of harvest in our exclusive Acton article.

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      Acton Blog

      Make the right investment for your future with Acton MBA

      Acton Answers: Make the Right Investment for Your Future

      This blog post emphasizes the importance of return on investment (ROI) when deciding to pursue an MBA. It discusses the significant time and financial commitment involved, highlighting that the right MBA program should offer substantial long-term benefits. The post critiques traditional MBA programs for focusing too much on theoretical knowledge and not enough on real-world challenges. It advocates for Acton's hands-on approach, where successful entrepreneurs teach practical skills essential for navigating the business world. Acton’s immersive environment aims to develop entrepreneurial traits like courage and perseverance, preparing graduates to innovate and succeed in business. The post invites prospective students to consider Acton for a practical, time-efficient MBA experience and encourages them to reach out for more information.

      Acton Answers: Why Running Partners?

      This blog post highlights the unique running partner relationship at Acton MBA, which distinguishes it from other programs. Every Acton student is paired with a running partner, a classmate who provides support and accountability. This partnership is crucial for pushing through challenges, both during the program and in real-world business scenarios. Running partners hold each other accountable, offer honest feedback, and provide emotional support through successes and failures. The blog emphasizes that entrepreneurship is a team effort and encourages prospective students to reach out for more information about Acton.

      Acton Answers: Why the Socratic Method?

      The Acton School employs the Socratic Method, utilizing case discussions to prepare students for real-world business challenges. This dynamic teaching approach fosters critical thinking, decision-making under pressure, and practical application of entrepreneurial skills.

      Acton in Action: Jon Gray’s Entrepreneurial Journey With HomeAway

      Jon Gray ('04), an Acton alumnus, exemplifies how entrepreneurial skills can thrive within a startup. From supporting HomeAway’s initial analysis to leading its North American division post-IPO, Gray's journey highlights strategic growth and continuous learning as key drivers of success.

      Can Entrepreneurship Be Taught?

      In “Can Entrepreneurship Be Taught?,” the author explores the age-old question of whether entrepreneurship is an innate trait or a skill that can be cultivated. Drawing from the unique approach of Acton's programs, the blog argues that while some traits may be inherent, the habits and skills crucial for entrepreneurial success can indeed be nurtured over time. Through the convergence of engaged students, experienced entrepreneur-teachers, and a hands-on learning approach, Acton offers a distinctive classroom experience aimed at empowering aspiring entrepreneurs to thrive in the dynamic world of business.

      Hugo Díaz, Director of Acton MBA in Harvest

      The Entrepreneur’s Solo Journey

      In “The Entrepreneur’s Solo Journey,” the author reflects on the solitary nature of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the isolation and challenges faced during the launch of a new venture. Despite the support of friends and mentors, the entrepreneur grapples with the unique burden of bringing their vision to life alone, navigating the demands of clients, time management, and maintaining personal relationships amidst the intensity of start-up life.

      Three men talking

      The Three Types of Entrepreneur: Which Are You?

      Acton categorizes entrepreneurs into three distinct archetypes: Bootstrap Tortoises, Asset Foxes, and MBA Hares. Each archetype represents a unique approach to entrepreneurship, tailored to different temperaments and preferences. Bootstrap Tortoises, for instance, build their businesses gradually, focusing on customer satisfaction and minimizing risks until demand is proven. Asset Foxes, on the other hand, prefer tangible assets like property, gradually acquiring, improving, and trading them. MBA Hares, influenced by traditional business education, prioritize rapid growth through venture capital, often overlooking the foundational stages of business development. The blog encourages readers to reflect on their entrepreneurial instincts and consider which archetype resonates with their strengths and ambitions. Through introspection and understanding of these archetypes, individuals can align their business strategies with their natural inclinations for greater success and fulfillment.

      Do You Know what You’re Working for as an Entrepreneur?

      In his blog post, José Javier Muñoz discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of intentionality, financial planning, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. Drawing from the Life of Meaning course, Muñoz outlines the process of determining one’s financial “number” and setting a timeline for achieving it, while also involving family members in the planning process. By reflecting on personal experiences and insights from John Warrillow's book Built to Sell, Muñoz illustrates the power of clarity in decision-making, particularly in the context of exiting a business. Ultimately, Muñoz invites readers to engage with these concepts, urging them to align their entrepreneurial goals with their deepest values and aspirations for a more fulfilling life.

      How To Fix Business Schools

      Master Teacher Jeff Sandefer critiques traditional MBA programs for prioritizing theoretical knowledge over student development. He advocates for a shift towards a pedagogy of humility, emphasizing the importance of asking questions, experiential learning, and finding a meaningful “calling” in business. Sandefer contrasts this approach with the perceived decline of many business schools, highlighting Acton as an exemplar of this philosophy.

      The Entrepreneurial Journey,
      a Podcast by Acton MBA at UFM

      In this podcast you’ll go on fascinating exploration of the entire business cycle - from identifying opportunities to launching, growing, and ultimately reaping the rewards of a successful enterprise. Tune in and gain invaluable insights from a diverse range of accomplished entrepreneurs for various industries who share practical tips and lesions to help you chart your own path, whether you’re starting out or looking to scale your business. Don’t miss out on this engaging and informative podcast that is guaranteed to leave you inspired and ready to pursue your entrepreneurial calling.

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episodio 20, Edgar Soto”

      En este episodio de The Entrepreneurial Journey de Acton MBA, Edgar Soto, graduado de Acton y fundador de Tía Ofilia, nos comunica cómo su transformación personal lo llevó a crear una empresa de alimentos orgánicos.

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episodio 19, Fernando Castillo, Silvia Mansilla, Marco Micheo y Luis Castillo”

      En este episodio de The Entrepreneurial Journey, Hugo Díaz, director del Acton MBA en la Universidad Francisco Marroquín, modera un panel de alumni del programa que han enfrentado el reto de emprender dentro de empresas familiares.

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episodio 17, Gustavo Pivaral y Eduardo Cruz”

      En este episodio, Eduardo Cruz y Gustavo Pivaral, ambos graduados del MBA de Acton, comparten cómo el programa transformó sus trayectorias empresariales, ayudándolos a enfrentar desafíos comerciales reales y hacer crecer sus emprendimientos.

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episodio 18, Luis Pedro López”

      En este episodio del pódcast de Acton MBA, Hugo, el anfitrión, entrevista a Luis Pedro López, un graduado del Acton MBA, quien comparte su trayectoria como emprendedor en la industria de la energía. Luis Pedro explica cómo, tras finalizar el programa, decidió desarrollar la generación de energía renovable dentro de la empresa familiar, para después lanzar su propia compañía en el sector solar.

       

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episode 16, Fintech con Tito Ibargüen y Juan Mini”

      En este episodio del pódcast hablamos sobre la revolución tecnofinanciera con dos invitados clave: Tito Ibargüen y Juan Mini, emprendedores e inversores que están transformando el ecosistema financiero en Guatemala. Descubre cómo la tecnología financiera…

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episode 15, Jimena Benítez, Marcel Roehrs & María José Jiménez”

      This Acton MBA podcast episode features a discussion with Jimena Benitez, Marcel Roehrs, and María José Jiménez about the unique challenges and opportunities in the entrepreneurial landscape of Guatemala. The conversation delves into the essential…

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episode 14, Pablo Galindo & Alejandro Zelaya”

      In this episode of the Acton MBA Open House podcast, Hugo Díaz, the director of the Acton MBA at Universidad Francisco Marroquín, hosts a discussion on what investors in Guatemala look for in start-ups. The…

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episode 13, Tony Koenigsknecht”

      In this Acton MBA podcast episode, Tony Koenigsknecht shares insights from his journey as an entrepreneur, highlighting the significance of resilience and adaptability in building a successful business. He discusses the challenges and rewards of…

      The Entrepreneurial Journey Podcast

      “T2 Episode 12, Alejandro Quinteros”

      In this engaging podcast episode, Alejandro Quinteros shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his career post-Acton MBA. From managing major marketing roles to founding ventures, Alejandro discusses the lessons learned and…

      Alumni Stories

      Speaker Series with Jon Gray

      Jon Gray’s career is a testament to entrepreneurial excellence. As one of the founding employees of HomeAway, he played a crucial role in the company’s growth from 2004 to 2017, leading it to a US$3.9…

      An Architect’s Journey into Real Estate Tech Entrepreneurship by Gabriela Mena.

      The Acton’s Speaker Series connects you with extraordinary entrepreneurs in a conversation about work and life. Learn about the entrepreneurial journey of Gabriela Mena, an Acton MBA alumnus! Gabriela is an accomplished entrepreneur, mom, and marathon runner who…