The main aims of this module are to provide the student with:A comprehensive understanding of the enterprise environment and factors supporting / restricting enterprise development within Ireland.An awareness of the stages of enterprise development and the range of start-up strategies that can be utilised in a variety of contexts.An opportunity to research and develop business ideas and formulate a comprehensive business plan.An opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial skills within a supportive learning environment.
Enterprise Development & Entrepreneurship in Ireland
• Entrepreneurial Activity in Ireland• Innovation in Recession• Ireland’s Enterprise Mission• The Context for Enterprise Development• Ireland’s Enterprise Objectives
Start-up Strategies
• Routes to Starting a New Business• The New Venture Creation Process• Managing a Start-up• Barriers to a Successful Launch• Market-Entry Strategies
Feasibility Analysis & Business Planning - Part One
• Principals involved in the Business• The Product / Service Offering• Target Market• Industry and Competitor Analysis (Macro and micro-Environmental Trends, Market Opportunities & Threats, Industry Structure)• Competitor Profiles
Business Planning Part Two: Preparing the Marketing Plan
• Market Size & Market Segments• Customer Profile & Behaviour• Market Research• Marketing Strategy (Positioning / Pricing / Distribution & Sales / Service & Quality Strategy)
Business Planning Part Three – Production Plan
• Location• Production Process & Facility Layout• Equipment Requirements & Costs• Sources of Raw Materials• Cost of Production & Set-up• Legal Requirements
Business Planning Part Four
HR & Organisational Structure• CV’s of Entrepreneurs & Staff Team• Responsibilities & Reporting Structures• Staffing & Skills Requirements• Employment & Labour Legislation
Business Planning Part Five - Financial Plan
• Financial Plan / Funding Sources• Cash Flow Forecast• Profit and Loss Accounts• Balance Sheets• Break-even Analysis & Return on Investment• Sources of Funding for start-up businesses
Critical Risks / Start-up Schedule
n/a
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |