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Module Code - Title:

EP4015 - START-UP GENERATION

Year Last Offered:

N/A

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

2

Lab

0

Tutorial

1

Other

0

Private

7

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

The creation of a new enterprise is a dynamic and complex process the demands more than just a good idea. It requires structured planning, strategic foresight, and the ability to adapt in an ever-changing business environment. Start-up generation is at the heart of economic growth, driving innovation, job creation, and competitive advantage in an ever-changing and uncertain business environment. Entrepreneurs face challenges such as rapid technological change, shifting consumer preferences, and global competition making business planning essential. This module immerses students in the entrepreneurial journey- from ideation to execution, emphasising business planning as the cornerstone of start-up success. The module will provide students with the opportunity to learn how to identify opportunities, craft compelling value propositions, and design strategies for sustainable business start-up. By combining creativity and structured strategic planning, students will learn to navigate uncertainty, seize opportunities, and transform ideas into viable enterprises. Overall, the purpose of this module is to develop future entrepreneurs/intrapreneurs with the mindset, knowledge, and tools to launch successful enterprises.

Syllabus:

The aim of this module is to provide students with an understanding of the stages involved in creating a new enterprise, including the development of skills in evaluating, preparing and presenting a business plan. It will explore the entrepreneurial mindset and a sense of entrepreneurial behaviour, which can be effectively used in diverse work environments. The module will facilitate students in the development and application of the analytical and decision-making skills necessary in formulating, implementing and controlling a business plan. The module will also establish project credibility and improve students' presentation and communication skills. The module will therefore address the following: the importance of SMEs and business planning; developing and screening business ideas; feasibility analysis; components of the business plan; financing the business; presenting the business plan with confidence

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Explain the dynamic nature of start-up generation and its role in driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth. Apply structured planning and strategic foresight to transform ideas into viable business opportunities. Develop value propositions and strategies for sustainable start-up generation. Present a comprehensive business plan that demonstrates creativity, feasibility, viability and adaptability in uncertain business environments.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset that embraces creativity, innovation, and adaptability. Discuss the adoption of ethical and sustainable business practices when developing new ventures.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

N/A

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

This module offers a blended, experiential learning approach that combines theoretical foundations with practical application, reflecting the dynamic and complex nature of start-up generation. Research in entrepreneurship education emphasises the importance of active learning, creativity development, and real-world engagement to foster entrepreneurial mindsets and skills. Accordingly, the module integrates lectures, workshops, and collaborative projects to create a dynamic learning environment. Lectures will be provided on the theoretical underpinnings of business planning ensuring students understand the strategic importance of structured planning and foresight in launching an enterprise. Workshops will focus on applying theory to practice, providing students with hands-on support for developing business ideas and plans. Overall, delivery methods will foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking to enhance ethical and responsible management skills developing the UL graduate attributes of “responsible”, “articulate”, “courageous”, and “curious”.

Prime Texts:

Burns, P. (2023) New Venture Creation: A Framework for Entrepreneurial Start-Ups , Bloomsbury Publishing.

Other Relevant Texts:

Barringer, B.R. (2021) Preparing Effective Business Plans: An Entrepreneurial Approach , Pearson Publishers

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS STUDIES

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Autumn

Module Leader:

yvonne.costin@ul.ie