Identify and critically evaluate the functional and managerial competencies of an entrepreneur in a new small enterprise.

Learning Outcome 1: To be able to research, identify, and critically evaluate the functional and managerial competencies of an owner/manager in a new small enterprise

Learning Outcome 2: To critically relate the position of a small enterprise within the economy and recognise modern trends in the business world that are impacting on business ventures

Learning Outcome 3: Plan, undertake and evaluate an investigation into the market potential for; a business product or service, e-business potential and produce a comprehensive business plan.

Learning Outcome 4: Critically appraise the operation of a small enterprise in marketing, finance, supply and human resource terms

Learning Outcome 5: The importance of building effective teams and relationships to support a creative culture for the new venture creation

Entrepreneurship is essential in enhancing productivity and growth in the economy and in an era of exponential technological change, there are an infinite number of opportunities for entrepreneurs to exploit. Skills to become a successful entrepreneur go far beyond technical knowhow and innovation, it is the combination of creativity, and business know how, together with a number of interpersonal skills that differentiates them from a manager or innovator.

The purpose of this coursework is to undertake a personal research project that explores the "lifeworld" of an entrepreneur, discussing and evaluating the skills, pressures and complexities associated with entrepreneurism in the 21st Century. As part of this process, you will:

Identify and critically evaluate the functional and managerial competencies of an entrepreneur in a new small enterprise.

Identify the skills and characteristics associated with entrepreneurs and understand their relevancy in a technological era

Critically relate the position of a small enterprise within the economy and recognise modern trends in the business world that are impacting on business ventures.