Presenter(s)

Grace Baden, Clay Craker, Isabella Howe, Andrew Regner, and Patrick Wright

Abstract

This project explores the integration of artificial intelligence in constructing a feasibility study for a proposed paddleboard guiding business in Winona, Minnesota. Conducted as a six-week applied learning experience within the Commercial Recreation course, students systematically employed AI tools to develop a feasibility analyses, covering business concept development, market research, financial forecasting, and operational planning.

A core focus of this project was AI prompt engineering—students iteratively designed, tested, and refined AI-generated responses to improve the accuracy, clarity, and applicability of feasibility study components. The project also examined AI's efficiency in generating data-driven insights, its limitations in niche market research, and the need for human critical thinking to verify and enhance AI-assisted content.

This presentation highlights the evolving role of AI in entrepreneurial planning, demonstrating how emerging technologies can be harnessed to enhance efficiency yet maintain rigor in feasibility assessments for new ventures. The project offers insights for both educators and future entrepreneurs navigating AI-integrated decision-making in experience-based enterprises, and beyond.

College

College of Nursing & Health Sciences

Department

Recreation, Tourism & Therapeutic Recreation

Campus

Winona

First Advisor/Mentor

Phileshia Dombroski

Start Date

4-24-2025 2:00 PM

End Date

4-24-2025 3:00 PM

Presentation Type

Poster Session

Format of Presentation or Performance

In-Person

Session

2b=2pm-3pm

Poster Number

10

Comments

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Apr 24th, 2:00 PM Apr 24th, 3:00 PM

Harnessing AI for Small Business Feasibility: A Paddleboard Guiding Venture in Winona, Minnesota

This project explores the integration of artificial intelligence in constructing a feasibility study for a proposed paddleboard guiding business in Winona, Minnesota. Conducted as a six-week applied learning experience within the Commercial Recreation course, students systematically employed AI tools to develop a feasibility analyses, covering business concept development, market research, financial forecasting, and operational planning.

A core focus of this project was AI prompt engineering—students iteratively designed, tested, and refined AI-generated responses to improve the accuracy, clarity, and applicability of feasibility study components. The project also examined AI's efficiency in generating data-driven insights, its limitations in niche market research, and the need for human critical thinking to verify and enhance AI-assisted content.

This presentation highlights the evolving role of AI in entrepreneurial planning, demonstrating how emerging technologies can be harnessed to enhance efficiency yet maintain rigor in feasibility assessments for new ventures. The project offers insights for both educators and future entrepreneurs navigating AI-integrated decision-making in experience-based enterprises, and beyond.

 

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