The purpose of this course is to explore the issues attendant on small business creation and growth as a phenomenon in both independent and corporate settings. By linking theory and practice the course aims to provide students with a hands-on experience in the development and maintenance of small business ventures. This course, along with HRNM6404: Financial Data Analysis for Human Resource Development Practitioners and participation in the HRD Internship, forms a programme of study that will assist students to develop effective practice skills for helping to steer small businesses into a long-term future.