Background:
The creation of new businesses, especially in a small, open economy, has significant implications for the development of the country in general and the tourism industry in particular. It is business creation/formation which will generate industry innovation, job creation and operational efficiencies that will inevitably lead to a more competitive tourism system. It is also the dynamism associated with entrepreneurial activity that lies at the root of economic vibrancy and industry competitiveness. As a service industry tourism holds many opportunities which may require relatively low initial investments as start up capital. It is therefore the aim of this course to develop the students’ understanding of the process and context of entrepreneurship as well as to provide key concepts which will enable them to take advantage of the mushroom of entrepreneurial opportunities that accompany the increased investments in the hospitality sector and the general tourism system.
More specifically the course focuses on.
ü The history and foundations of entrepreneurship
ü The concept of innovation
ü Entrepreneurship within services and in particular within tourism
ü Strategic Planning for Entrepreneurship
ü Entrepreneurship and new venture creation
ü The unique characteristics of tourism and the implications of those characteristics for entrepreneurial development