Overview

The Launchpad gets students and their ideas ready for the real world. It helps them uncover their passion and bring it to life. Students have the chance to develop and refine their own startup ideas or work on collaborative, industry-connected projects. They will develop an information memorandum and investor pitch, and present to an investment panel composed of real entrepreneurs, investors and start-up advisors. They engage with the university entrepreneurial ecosystem, including the Swinburne Innovation Studio, and forge external networks to support them once they graduate.

Requisites

Unit learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:

  1. Apply the lean start-up methodology to develop and evaluate product ideas leading to a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
  2. Develop a realistic business model incorporating a product development plan, unique value proposition, financial forecast and valuation.
  3. Prepare a comprehensive and compelling Information Memorandum and Investor Pitch.
  4. Work and communicate effectively as an individual or as part of a team across a range of activities and contexts.
  5. Work individually and collaboratively to exercise critical thinking and adaptability in the face of entrepreneurial challenges.

Teaching methods

Hawthorn

Type Hours per week Number of weeks Total (number of hours)
On-campus
Class		2.00 12 weeks 24
Online
Lecture		1.00 12 weeks 12
Unspecified Learning Activities (Phasing out)
Independent Learning		9.50 12 weeks 114
TOTAL150

Assessment

Type Task Weighting ULOs
Presentation and Report Individual  20 - 40%  2,3,4,5
Report and Presentation Individual  20 - 40%  1,4,5
Report and Presentation Individual/Group  40 - 60%  1,2,3,4,5

Content

  • Finance models and forecasting, including income statements
  • Valuation principles and methods
  • Lean start-up methodologies
  • Unique value propositions
  • Minimum viable products
  • Business model canvas
  • Value chain analysis and route to market
  • New venture launch and growth strategies
  • Customer acquisition strategies
  • Information memorandum
  • Pitching and effective business communication

Study resources