This module looks at the role of entrepreneurship and innovation in sustaining and growing successful businesses. Typical content will include the following or similar topics;
Contemporary Entrepreneurship and innovation:
1. Defining the nature of entrepreneurship, innovation and the entrepreneurial process in modern society
2. Identifying and exploiting the business opportunity in a modern environment dependent on rapid communication
3. Establishing success factors for the venture
Choosing a direction:
1. Entrepreneurial vision and mission, what it is and how do you shape and communicate it
2. Using the business plan as an entrepreneurial tool
Assessing the role of information systems as a driver for innovation and growth
Initiation of a new venture:
1. The strategic window, identifying and analysing the gap, scanning for opportunity, positioning the new venture and sustaining competitiveness
2. Choice And selection of appropriate financial support
Growth and development:
1. Analysing and evaluating the dimensions for growth
2. Examining strategies for growth
3. Consolidation of the venture and the changing role of the entrepreneur

The learning strategy for the module requires students to commit 150 learning hours (including assessment) or this there will be 24 hours of class support and 126 hours of independent and self directed study. Support will also be given by access to scheduled tutor office hours to support the module

Business Library
The module web site

Birley S and Muzyka D, (2003) Mastering Enterprise FT Pitman (ISBN 0273 63031 8)
Wickham P., (1998) Strategic Entrepreneurship, Pitman (ISBN 0273 62713 9)

An individual case based assignment at the end of the teaching block (2500 words) - 100% (tests all learning outcomes)