A School-Based Enterprise isn’t just a school store or a service; it’s a living, breathing business. Once your SBE is up and running, the real challenge begins: growing it. Expanding your customer base, increasing sales and elevating your chapter’s presence takes strategy, creativity and a team ready to level up.
Focus on Customer Experience
Growth starts with your customers. Look for ways to turn casual buyers into loyal fans. Add small touches that make every interaction memorable, like personalized thank-you notes, seasonal packaging or a limited-time promotion that keeps people returning. Encourage your team to greet everyone with energy and professionalism.
Expand Your Product and Service Offerings
If you’ve been selling the same products for months, it might be time to freshen things up. Ask your peers and chapter members what they want to see next through polls, suggestion boxes or social media questions. Try rotating seasonal items or launching special “limited-edition” products that create excitement. Small changes, like new flavors, colors or bundles, can increase sales and re-engage your audience.
Here are some ideas for inspiration:
- Valentine’s Day: Offer “sweetheart bundles” with candy and a handwritten note. Offer a small “delivery service” where students can send treats to friends during lunch.
- Winter Holidays: Sell seasonal favorites like hot chocolate kits, peppermint popcorn or festive cookie decorating packs. Even simple red-and-green packaging can make classic products feel brand new.
- Exam Season: Focus on grab-and-go “study fuel” bundles: trail mix, bottled drinks or energy bars with a motivational note. Tie these into a “Finals Week Survival Pack” promotion to boost sales during slower months.
Maximize Your Marketing Reach
The bigger your SBE’s presence, the more growth potential you have. Step up your marketing by creating an online presence through your school’s social media pages or your chapter’s accounts. Share behind-the-scenes photos, highlight new products and celebrate team milestones. Pair this with in-school promotion; eye-catching displays, themed days or even pop-up carts in high-traffic areas can grab attention and boost sales.
Participate in #DECASBEWeek
Once you’ve worked to grow your SBE, don’t keep it a secret — show it off! From September 29 to October 3, 2025, DECA’s School-Based Enterprise Week will spotlight chapters like yours. Each day will feature a unique social media theme to celebrate the creativity, dedication and entrepreneurship behind SBEs.
Document your growth and share it with the world. Post photos or videos of your team in action, showcase new products, or give a peek at what makes your SBE special. Don’t forget to use #DECASBEWeek and tag @decainc for a chance to gain recognition, inspire other chapter, and highlight how your enterprise is thriving.
