Entrepreneurship Terms

Glossary of terms on Entrepreneurship and Business Incubation 2013
Glossary of terms on Entrepreneurship and Business Incubation 2013 from www.slideshare.net

Business Model

The business model is a plan for how a business will operate and make money. It outlines the products or services the business will offer, the target market they will sell to, and the resources and expenses needed to run the business. A good business model provides a framework for a business to be successful and to create value. It also helps entrepreneurs understand how their business will be profitable and sustainable.

An important part of the business model is the value proposition, which is a statement that explains why customers should buy a product or service from the business. It outlines the benefits of the product or service, how it’s different from the competition, and why customers should choose the business over others. The value proposition should be clear and concise, and should focus on the customer’s needs and wants.

Market Research

Market research is the process of gathering information about a target market. This includes the size of the market, the demographics of the customers, their needs and wants, their buying habits, and the competition. Market research helps entrepreneurs understand their target market and develop strategies to reach them. It also helps businesses make informed decisions about pricing, product development, and marketing.

There are several methods of market research, including surveys, focus groups, interviews, and competitor analysis. Market research can be conducted online or in person, and it can be done by the business itself or by a third-party research firm. It’s important to conduct market research before launching a business, as it can provide valuable insights into the target market.

Business Plan

A business plan is a detailed document outlining the goals, strategies, and tactics a business will use to reach its objectives. It includes information about the products or services the business will offer, the target market, the finances, and the resources and expenses needed to run the business. A business plan should be comprehensive and thorough, as it will serve as a roadmap for the business going forward.

The business plan should be written in a clear and concise manner, and should include detailed financial projections. It should also include an executive summary, which is a brief overview of the business and its objectives. The business plan should be reviewed and updated regularly, as the business’s goals and strategies may change over time.

Startup Funding

Startup funding is money used to launch a business. It can come from a variety of sources, including loans, angel investors, venture capitalists, crowdfunding, and government grants. Start-up funding is essential for businesses to get started, as it provides the resources and capital needed to turn ideas into reality.

It’s important to research the different sources of startup funding before launching a business. Each source has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right one for the business’s needs. It’s also important to understand the terms and conditions of the funding, as these can have a big impact on the business’s future.

Pivot

A pivot is a change in direction or strategy. It’s a way for businesses to adjust and adapt to changing markets, customer needs, and competitive pressures. Pivoting is a common practice in the startup world, as businesses often need to adjust their strategies in order to succeed. A successful pivot can help businesses stay competitive and position themselves for long-term success.

When pivoting, it’s important to understand the reasons for the change. Pivots should be based on data and research, and should be well thought out. It’s also important to communicate the pivot to customers and stakeholders, so they understand the reasons for the change and can support the business going forward.

Scalability

Scalability is the ability of a business to grow and expand without sacrificing quality or efficiency. It’s an important factor for businesses to consider, as it allows them to meet changing customer demands, expand their market reach, and increase their profits. To be scalable, businesses need to have a clear plan for growth, efficient processes, and reliable infrastructure.

Scalability also involves understanding the costs associated with growth, such as hiring new employees, investing in new technologies, and marketing to new customers. It’s important for businesses to plan for scalability in order to ensure their long-term success. By understanding the costs and benefits of scalability, businesses can make informed decisions about their growth strategies.