Aims
The School of entrepreneurship will include a number of activities, both of a training and social nature, that are aimed at a number of different aspects. In particular and among many other things, we want to develop:
the skills and knowledge that YOU will need to start and run successfully YOUR enterprise (start-up business);
your tapped and untapped potential, your knowledge and your expertise or interest in relation to the characteristics and requirements of YOUR business idea/project’
your ability to share experiences and ideas, challenges and successes in a positive, constructive, supportive environment;
your ability to network with other business people so that you take advantage of the best advertising method ever invented.
Training modalities
Training will take place in a number of different types of events:
weekly sessions
The sessions will be part of a course that will stretch over 8 weeks. This course will be repeated at least twice a year.
weekend course
The 8 sessions will be compacted into a crash weekend long course that will take place at least two or three times a year.
distance learning
A suitable programme to enable us to offer this option is currently being developed.
on-line training
A suitable programme to enable us to offer this option is currently being developed.
Training sessions
The training sessions will focus on the following topics:
What is an entrepreneur?
The idea of entrepreneurship. The difference between start-up and enterprise. The characteristics of a successful entrepreneur.
From idea to business
Turning your idea/dream into a real working business. The challenges and pitfalls, the costs involved (personally and financially). Setting up your business is a unique experience.
The business plan
The who, what, how, when of your business. Taking the myth/fear out of a business plan and making it work for you and your business.
Your marketing plan
Great ideas can become great businesses. But… what is your market> What about the competition? How are you going to market your product or service? Your USPs. The power of networking.
Customer service plan
The price structure. Knowing your customer needs and expectations. How to ensure that you keep them, grow them, develop them.
Financial and legal matters
You may well start your money with no money; but there is a series of financial and legal procedures that you need to abide by. Learn about accounting, taxes, vat, loans etc.
What about your team? HR plan
Even a sole trader needs a team around him/her to operate. You need to make sure that they are the right people, offering you the best service/support at the best cost for you. So, who is going to work with you or for you?
From birth to growth – Development plan
Any business that does not grow and develops stagnates and finally dies. How are you going to develop your business with new products, new services? What about changing your business model?
Networking events
Results have long shown that for many, if not all, micro and small businesses networking is not only the best form of marketing (advertising and promoting your services and products) but it is actually the only one that often works and gives the best returns.
In view of this a series of “networking events” will be organised throughout the year which will again be free to all active and past students of the school; a small charge will apply to visitors.
These events will be of different nature but all will aim at developing your networking skills as well as your list of networking contacts. Which may well lead to new business or consolidate existing business.