If small businesses are the engines of our economy, then entrepreneurs are the sparks that ignite those engines. This research report will explain how entrepreneurship education programs can help students create and establish their own business. The paper defines entrepreneurship education, outlines the major components of entrepreneurship programs, and highlights exemplary programs across the country and in Illinois. The dual purpose of this paper is to provide information to those interested in developing an entrepreneurship program and to suggest additional print and electronic resources that provide information and technical assistance for development of an entrepreneurship program. Noting that many rural youth will not attend college to learn a profession or skill that is in demand locally, the author advocates that entrepreneurship programs are especially important in rural areas because without new business opportunities, the long-term outmigration of residents will continue. Because rural areas often lack the resources, capital, and personnel to attract large businesses, the main employment growth must come from small business startups. Entrepreneurial education efforts, writes Williams, can make all the difference in creating these businesses.