Course

Module 1: Introduction to Design Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship in the creative economy: opportunities in interior design; business models: sole proprietorship, partnerships, start-ups, and design collectives; understanding intellectual property rights and legal aspects for designers.

Module 2: Financial and Operational Strategies

Basics of financial planning, budgeting, and pricing for design services/products; funding options: self-funding, investors, grants, and design incubators; operations management: project workflows, human resources and procurement

Module 3: Branding and Digital Marketing

Personal and business branding: building a unique identity in the design market; digital marketing strategies: social media campaigns, SEO, content marketing, portfolio websites, influencer collaborations and paid advertising; case studies of successful design brands using digital platforms.

Module 4: Capstone – Business Plan Development

Researching market needs and identifying opportunities; preparing a business plan: vision, mission, objectives, financial projections and growth strategy; pitching the business plan: communication, storytelling and presentation skills

Course Objectives

•  Develop an understanding of entrepreneurship in design, exploring business models, markets, and opportunities in the design industry.
•  Learn strategic, financial, and operational aspects of setting up and managing a design practice or creative enterprise.
• Acquire skills in branding and digital marketing for design services and products.
•  Build a comprehensive business plan or entrepreneurial project proposal as a capstone outcome to prepare for independent practice.

Course Outcomes

After completing this course, students will be able to:

CO1 : Demonstrate knowledge of entrepreneurial concepts, business models and legal frameworks for design enterprises.

CO2 : Apply financial planning, resource management, and operational strategies for design practice or creative start-ups.

CO3 : Develop and implement a branding and digital marketing strategy for a design enterprise.

CO4 : Create a comprehensive business plan or entrepreneurial project proposal aligned with industry opportunities.

1. Brown, T. (2009). Change by Design: How Design Thinking Creates New Alternatives for Business and Society. Harper Business.
2. Osterwalder, A., & Pigneur, Y. (2010). Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers. John Wiley & Sons.
3. Ryan, D. (2016). Understanding Digital Marketing: Marketing Strategies for Engaging the Digital Generation. Kogan Page.
4. Kelley, T., & Littman, J. (2005). The Ten Faces of Innovation: IDEO’s Strategies for Defeating the Devil’s Advocate and Driving Creativity Throughout Your Organization. Currency/Doubleday.
5. Kuratko, D. F. (2016). Entrepreneurship: Theory, Process, and Practice. Cengage Learning.