Company Programmes students gain practical experience of enterprise by setting up and running their own real company. Students 'learn by doing' through assuming directorship roles. In this way they develop a classic enterprise and financial capability as well as economic and business understanding. The programme contributes significantly towards the development of Key Skills and the Enterprise Education and Work-Related agendas.
Content and delivery:
Students set up and run their company over the course of one academic year. They elect a board of directors from amongst their peers, raise share capital, and market and finance a product or service of their own choice. At the end of the year they present a report and accounts to their shareholders. Students gain experience of the real world: taking responsibility and being accountable to their shareholders for the running of the business.
As a result of running a Young Enterprise company, students gain:
- an understanding of how a business works and how wealth and employment are created
- the ability to work in a team
- improved communication skills
- more enthusiasm and self confidence
- a willingness to take responsibility and initiative
- time management skills
- experience of key business functions such as marketing, financial management, sales, customer care and personnel management.
During their year of trading, Young Enterprise companies have the opportunity to participate in local, national, and in some cases international trade fairs where they can sell their products, market their services, and so boost their sales and experience.
International Young Enterprise company trading is also supported through International Links, a free web site service developed by Young Enterprise UK. This allows Young Enterprise companies to partner with student companies overseas and forge international links in order to share ideas and experiences, arrange trade fair exchange visits, or trade with their partner company.
