Understanding Entrepreneurship Basics
Understanding Entrepreneurship Basics
Kuratko & Hodgetts: Defined the entrepreneur as a person who organizes, manages,
and takes risks in business.
So, in simple terms, an entrepreneur is someone who combines resources (like money
and labor) to create and sell products or services, while taking on risks in the process.
What is Entrepreneurship?
The word entrepreneur comes from the French term "entreprendre," which means "to
undertake".
Histrich and Peter: Defined entrepreneurship as a dynamic process of creating
wealth by taking risks with time, effort, and resources to offer value through products
or services.
Evolution of Entrepreneurship
Early Times: Marco Polo, a famous explorer, can be seen as an early entrepreneur.
He set up trade routes, taking risks and sharing profits with financiers (capitalists).
16th Century: Entrepreneurs were seen as individuals who undertook military
expeditions in France.
17th Century: Entrepreneurship was tied to risk. Entrepreneurs signed contracts with
governments to supply products or services, and they took on both the profit and loss.
18th Century: Richard Cantillon, a French economist, used the term "entrepreneur"
for the first time in a business sense. He said entrepreneurs buy resources at fixed
prices and sell the resulting products at uncertain future prices.
19th Century: Entrepreneurs were seen as risk-takers, who also played the role of
planners, organizers, and leaders.
Early 20th Century: Entrepreneurs were viewed as promoters who turned ideas into
profitable businesses. Joseph Schumpeter saw them as innovators who developed new
technologies or business models.
21st Century: Entrepreneurs are now also seen as individuals who add incremental
value to existing products or services, not necessarily coming up with entirely new
ideas. The growth of technology and the internet has made entrepreneurship more
accessible, allowing people to launch businesses with just a click.
John Kao's 1989 article Entrepreneurship, Creativity, and Organization presents a model that
identifies four key factors influencing entrepreneurial success. These factors are:
1. The Person (The Entrepreneur): The success of any new business largely depends on the
entrepreneur—the person behind the venture. Entrepreneurs are driven, creative, and
determined individuals with a unique mix of skills, traits, and experiences. They have the
ability to think outside the box, solve problems, and act decisively. The entrepreneur’s
personality, motivation, and abilities such as intuition and analytical thinking are key to the
venture’s success.
2. The Task: This focuses on what the entrepreneur does. They need to spot opportunities in
the market, often before anyone else does, and take action to make things happen.
Entrepreneurs must also manage people, gather resources, and lead the business forward.
4. The Organization: The organization refers to the structure and culture of the business
itself. Entrepreneurs need to create a workplace where innovation and growth are possible.
This means setting up the right systems, rules, and communication channels, and fostering a
positive, productive environment.
First Major Section : This section explains the product or service idea. It looks at
competing products and companies and shows what makes your idea unique, focusing on
what sets it apart in the market (its Unique Selling Proposition).
Second Major Section: This part focuses on the market for your idea. It covers the
market size, trends, characteristics, and growth rate, helping you understand if there’s enough
potential for success.
First Minor Section: This section is about you (the entrepreneur) and your team. It looks
at your background, education, skills, and experience to see if you have what it takes to make
the business work.
Second Minor Section: This section creates a timeline of the steps needed to launch the
business. It shows what must happen to turn the idea into a successful business.
When evaluating an idea, it’s essential to set clear goals. The criteria should be SMART:
II Concept Stage: In the Concept Stage, the entrepreneur refines the idea and tests it with
potential customers to see how well it will be accepted. One common method is the
conversational interview, where customers react to the product’s features, price, and
promotion. Compare the new idea with competitors to see what’s better or worse.
III Product Development Stage: In the Product Development Stage, the idea is tested
with a consumer panel. The panel tries the product and compares it with similar products on
the market. The goal is to see how consumers feel about the product’s strengths and
weaknesses. Feedback: Participants record their opinions and preferences.
IV Test Marketing Stage: The Test Marketing Stage is the final test before a full
product launch. It involves selling the product in a limited area to see how well it sells and
how consumers respond. Why it matters: If the test marketing results are positive, it
suggests the product is likely to succeed when launched on a larger scale.
What is team building? Team building helps a group of people work together as a
cohesive unit. It's not just about getting tasks done, but also about fostering trust,
respect, and support between team members, even though they may have different
strengths and opinions.
The entrepreneur’s role as a team leader: As an entrepreneur, you need to guide
your team towards working smoothly together and achieving their goals. A team is
like a living organism that needs regular care and attention to thrive.
Why is team building important? With strong team-building skills, the entrepreneur
can unite employees around a shared vision, boosting overall productivity. Without
these skills, the team may struggle, and everyone will only do what they can
individually.
What is strategic planning? Strategic planning is the process of figuring out where
your business is right now and where you want it to go. It helps you document your
mission, vision, values, long-term goals, and the action steps to achieve them.
Why is a strategic plan important? A solid plan guides your business’s growth and
success. It tells you and your employees how to handle opportunities and challenges
that come your way.
The problem with short-term focus: Many small business owners focus only on the
short-term (often planning only a year ahead). In a survey, 63% of small business
owners said they plan for just one year or less. But focusing on long-term goals is key
to future success.
What does strategic planning involve? It’s all about analyzing your current business
situation and setting realistic, achievable goals for the future. This process will help
your business navigate challenges and seize new opportunities as they come.
The company looks at where it stands now—what’s working and what’s not, and the
environment around it (market trends, competitors).
Identify Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats to understand what could
help or hurt the company.
Based on this, top managers decide things like which markets to enter, which to leave,
and how to grow—whether that’s through partnerships or other means.
This is where things get done! The company puts the plan into motion—allocating
resources, building teams, and making sure everyone is on board.
Managers must motivate teams and create a positive work environment for the plan to
succeed.
After some time, the company reviews how well the plan is working by looking at
both internal performance (how well the company is doing) and external factors
(market conditions, competitors).
If things aren’t going as planned, adjustments are made to keep things on track.
What is it?
The "form of ownership" refers to how a business is legally structured. It determines
the owner’s rights, responsibilities, and how much control they have. Choosing the
right form is important because it affects the success of the business, its financial
setup, and legal obligations.
What is it?
A sole proprietorship is one of the simplest and oldest forms of business ownership.
In this structure, a single person owns, manages, and controls the business. Examples
include small local businesses like kirana stores, restaurants, or home-based
businesses.
It’s easy to set up and operate, and it’s very common in India. It’s a popular choice
because the owner has full control over the business and all profits.
There's minimal paperwork and only a few legal formalities (like a license for certain
businesses).
Since the owner runs everything, decisions can be made quickly without waiting for
approval.
The owner can change the business at any time, as they’re in full control.
The owner keeps all business details (like profits and losses) private.
Since the owner gets all the profits and bears all the risks, they are highly motivated.
The owner can build close relationships with customers, understanding their needs
better.
Running a sole proprietorship gives valuable experience for managing bigger
businesses.
It can be started with a small amount of money.
The owner is personally responsible for the business’s debts, meaning their personal
property could be used to pay off business debts.
Since it’s owned by one person, there are fewer resources available for expansion or
growth.
One person can’t do everything, so there may be a lack of skills needed to manage all
areas of the business.
The business can be unstable. If the owner decides to close it or if the owner passes
away, the business will likely end.
Sometimes, hasty or personal decisions by the owner can lead to business losses.
This structure works best for small, simple businesses like shops or small restaurants.
1.3.2 Partnership
A partnership is a type of business where two or more people come together to run a
business with the aim of making a profit. It's a way to overcome some of the challenges faced
by sole proprietorships, like lack of capital or limited skills.
Benefits of Partnership:
1. More Financial Resources: Since there are multiple partners, the business has access
to more capital. This makes it easier to expand and grow the business. If the business
needs more money, new partners can join.
2. Sharing Management Tasks: Partners bring different skills to the table. For
example, one might handle production, another handles marketing, and someone else
deals with legal or HR issues. This division of labor makes the business more
efficient.
3. Better Decision Making: In a partnership, decisions are made together, considering
everyone’s opinions. This helps ensure decisions are well-balanced and helps avoid
mistakes in implementation.
4. Sharing Risks: Unlike a sole proprietor, the partners share the risks of the business. If
the business faces challenges, the partners split the responsibility. This encourages
them to take calculated risks for bigger rewards.
5. Easy to Set Up: A partnership is simple to start. The main requirement is an
agreement between the partners. There aren't high costs or complex registration
processes involved.
Limitations of Partnership:
1.3.3 Company
A company is a group of people who come together to run a business. It has its own legal
identity, meaning it can own property, enter into contracts, and be sued, just like a person. It
continues to exist even if its members change. The company has a seal that is used on official
documents, and its capital comes from shares that can be bought and sold by its members.
The members' responsibility is limited to what they've invested in the shares.
Merits of a Company:
1. Ability to Raise Funds: Companies can raise large amounts of money by selling
shares to the public. This allows them to fund big projects and expansions.
2. Limited Liability: If the company faces losses or debts, the shareholders are only
responsible for the amount they invested. This makes it safer for people to invest in
companies.
3. Easy Transfer of Shares: Shareholders can sell or transfer their shares easily, which
gives them flexibility if they need cash or want to exit the business.
4. Stability and Longevity: A company keeps running even if a shareholder leaves or
passes away. This makes it more stable than other types of businesses.
5. Growth and Expansion: With more financial resources, a company can grow
quickly and scale its operations. This growth often leads to higher profits and more
opportunities.
6. Professional Management: Companies can hire skilled managers to handle their
large-scale operations, ensuring that the business is run efficiently.
7. Public Trust: Companies are required to share their financial information publicly,
which helps build trust. Investors can make decisions based on annual reports and
other disclosures.
8. Social Benefits:
o Democratic Management: Companies are usually run by a board of directors
chosen by shareholders, ensuring decisions reflect the interests of the majority.
o Shared Ownership: Many people can own parts of the company through
shares, so the profits and benefits are spread among a large number of people.
Limitations of a Company:
An LLP is a modern business structure that blends the best features of both partnerships and
companies. Introduced in India through the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008, it
allows entrepreneurs to combine their professional knowledge and business skills, while
offering limited liability protection to its members.
Advantages of an LLP:
Disadvantages of an LLP:
1. The structure of an LLP may be restricted by state laws, which can limit how it
operates.
2. The legal agreements for an LLP are often complex and require detailed terms.
3. Setting up an LLP can involve high legal and filing fees.
4. Unlike companies, LLPs can’t raise money from the public by issuing shares.
5. Financial institutions may be hesitant to lend large sums to an LLP.
1.4 Franchising
Franchising is a business model where a company (the franchisor) allows others (the
franchisees) to sell its products or services under the company’s brand name. The franchisee
pays the franchisor for this right, often in the form of royalties or profit-sharing.
1. Starting a franchise is safer than starting a business from scratch, as the business
model is already tested and successful.
2. Less than 10% of franchises fail, compared to a much higher failure rate for
independent businesses.
3. Franchisees benefit from the brand's existing recognition, making it easier to attract
customers.
1. Franchisees have to follow a strict business format and can’t make their own changes.
For example, a McDonald’s franchisee must follow detailed guidelines for every
aspect of the operation.
2. Franchisees are usually limited to a certain product line or a specific location for their
business.
1. Product Franchising: This is the oldest type, where a dealer is given the right to sell
goods made by a manufacturer (e.g., car dealerships, oil companies).
2. Manufacturing Franchising: In this type, the franchisor allows the franchisee to
produce and sell the product in a specific region (e.g., Coca-Cola bottlers).
3. Business-Format Franchising: The most popular type today, where the franchisor
provides a full business package, including marketing, operations, training, and
support (e.g., McDonald's, Subway).
1. Master Franchise: A master franchise gives the franchisee the right to not only open
and run multiple units in a specific area but also to sell franchises to other people (called sub-
franchisees) within that area.
The master franchisee takes on many of the franchisor’s tasks like providing training
and support. They also collect fees and royalties from sub-franchisees.
2. Area Development Franchise: This agreement allows the franchisee to open several
units (more than one) in a specific area over a set period of time. For example, a franchisee
might agree to open 5 units in 5 years.
The franchisee gets exclusive rights to develop that area with multiple units, meaning
no other franchisee can open in that same territory.
4. Single-Unit Franchise: This is the most basic type of franchise agreement. The
franchisee gets the right to open one [Link] franchisee focuses on managing just one unit
but may buy more later if the first one does well.
1. Business Format Franchises: This type is based on a specific system for how to run the
business. It usually applies to retail and service businesses (like fast food or gyms).
2. Area Franchises: The franchisee gets the right to run multiple locations within a certain
region—like a city, state, or even a whole area.
3. Single Unit Franchises: The franchisee has the right to run just one location.
4. Multi-Unit Franchises: The franchisee has the right to open and run multiple locations at
once.
6. Sub Franchises: These are franchises sold by an area franchisee to other business owners
in their territory. The original franchisee acts like a "master" and sells smaller units to others.
7. Piggyback Franchises: Two or more franchise businesses share space in one location.
This way, they offer more products or services to attract more customers.
8. Convention Franchises: These are independent businesses that join an existing franchise
and become part of that larger brand.
When considering a franchise, it's crucial to assess the opportunity carefully to ensure that it's
a good fit for your goals. Here’s a checklist to guide you in evaluating a franchise:
I. Did your lawyer approve the franchise agreement after reviewing it?
II. Does the franchise ask you to do anything that your lawyer thinks is risky or illegal in
your area?
III. Under what conditions and what costs can you cancel your franchise contract?
IV. If you sell your franchise, will you get paid for the business value you’ve built (goodwill),
or will you lose that?
V. Does the franchise give you an exclusive area to operate in for the entire length of your
contract?
VI. Is the franchisor involved with any other franchise companies that offer similar products
or services?
VII. If yes, what protection do you have against competing franchises in the same market?
1.5.1 Introduction
Finance is the backbone of any enterprise. It’s needed at every stage of the business lifecycle,
from setting up the initial infrastructure to maintaining operations, expanding, and improving.
A business needs capital for fixed assets (like machinery and buildings) and working capital
(for day-to-day expenses like wages, inventory, and marketing). Managing finances carefully
is key to business success.
When starting a new business, entrepreneurs must secure two types of capital:
Working Capital: This covers short-term expenses, such as buying raw materials,
paying wages, rent, utilities, and marketing. It is referred to as revolving or
circulating capital, as it gets used and replenished regularly.
Fixed Capital: Fixed capital is used to buy long-term assets, such as land, machinery,
and equipment. The amount needed depends on the nature and size of the business.
Manufacturing businesses generally require larger investments than trading
businesses.
To successfully raise funds, a business must first estimate its financial needs. These needs can
be categorized based on how long the capital is required:
Long-Term Capital: Needed for investments in fixed assets and long-term projects
(like expansion). It’s raised through debentures, shares, and loans from banks or
financial institutions. This capital is typically used for more than five years.
Medium-Term Capital: This is for activities like upgrading machinery, building
renovations, and advertising. It can be raised for periods of two to five years and is
often obtained through debentures, shares, or reinvesting profits.
Short-Term Capital: Used to finance current assets and cover everyday expenses
(e.g., raw materials, wages). It’s typically raised for periods under one year and can
come from banks, trade credit, or installment credit.
When a business needs funds, the sources of finance depend on the type of project and how
long the funds will be needed for. Enterprises may require short, medium, or long-term
funding based on the nature of their needs. Below, we explain the main sources of funding:
Internal funding comes from within the entrepreneur's own resources, rather than borrowing
from external sources. Here are the common types:
1. Founder, Family, and Friends (3F): Entrepreneurs often start a business using their
own savings or funds from family and friends. The longer the entrepreneur relies on
internal funds, the lower the cost of external funding. It also gives the entrepreneur
more control over the business. Family and friends can provide seed capital, either as
loans or by purchasing equity (ownership shares).
2. Bootstrapping: This is when the entrepreneur funds the business using their own
resources without borrowing from banks or external investors. Bootstrapping uses
methods like:
Retained earnings (profits reinvested in the business)
Credit cards
Mortgages
Customer advances
o This approach helps the entrepreneur retain control over the business and
avoid taking on financial risks. However, it may limit the business’s growth
due to insufficient funds, especially when competing with better-funded
companies.
3. Business Alliances: Forming alliances with other businesses can provide financial
support and reduce costs. These alliances can help businesses with things like:
Expanding market reach
Developing products
Reducing operational costs
Sharing customer lists and sales channels
o Business alliances are particularly helpful for early-stage businesses with
limited resources, but they may not always be beneficial once the business
becomes more established.
Businesses raise funds through various sources, depending on the time frame and purpose of
the finance. Below are the main options for raising capital:
Equity Financing: This involves selling shares (equity or preference shares) to
investors in exchange for ownership stakes. Shareholders benefit from dividends and
have voting rights, but the business doesn’t have to repay the funds.
Debt Financing: In this model, businesses raise funds by issuing debentures or
loans. The company borrows money from investors (debenture holders) and agrees to
repay them with interest at regular intervals.
Term Loans: Long-term loans (usually for 3 to 10 years) from financial institutions
or banks, used to fund capital expenditures or projects that require a long time to pay
back. Examples include loans from ICICI, IDBI, or commercial banks.
Business Angels Business angels are wealthy individuals who invest in start-ups and
small businesses, often in exchange for equity. They can provide valuable mentorship
and industry expertise to help the business grow. Business angels usually invest in
high-growth potential businesses and are willing to provide capital for a long period
(5-10 years).
Private Placements In a private placement, a business raises funds by offering shares
or bonds directly to a small group of investors, typically institutional investors. This
method is faster and has fewer regulatory requirements than a public offering. It
allows businesses to raise capital without going through a lengthy public offering
process.
Mezzanine Finance Mezzanine finance is a hybrid of debt and equity financing. It
allows businesses to raise capital without immediate repayment, but it can be
converted into equity if not repaid on time. It is typically used by companies with a
proven track record that are looking to expand. Mezzanine finance has a high-risk,
high-reward nature, and it is paid back after bank loans and venture capital
investments.
1. Retained Earnings: This is when a business uses the profits it has earned (but hasn't
paid out) to fund future investments. These profits are saved each year and called
retained earnings.
2. Lease Finance: In a lease agreement, the business rents an asset (like machinery or
property) without actually owning it. The lessee (the business) makes payments over
time to the lessor (the owner).
3. Hire Purchase: Similar to leasing, but here the business pays in installments to buy
an asset. The seller still owns the asset until the business has made all the payments.
4. Public Deposits: These are funds raised by asking the general public to invest or
deposit money with the company. Public deposits can be a quick and easy way to
raise medium-term funds, especially in tough times when people are looking to invest
in profitable ventures.
5. Venture Capital Financing: A venture capital company is one that partners with an
entrepreneur, sharing the risks and rewards of a business venture. They usually
provide funding in exchange for ownership in the company.
1. Trade Credit: This is when a supplier allows a business to buy now and pay later.
It's based on mutual trust and depends on the business's creditworthiness.
2. Installment Credit: the business borrows money and repays it in equal monthly
payments. It’s like a hire-purchase plan but for other expenses, like machinery.
3. Cash Credit: This is an agreement with a bank that allows a business to withdraw
more money than it has in its account. The bank provides a limit, and the business can
borrow up to that amount for short-term needs.
4. Commercial Papers: Large companies with a good credit rating can issue
commercial papers (short-term promissory notes) to raise money from investors.
These are usually unsecured and are sold directly to buyers.
5. Bank Loan: A traditional bank loan is money lent by the bank for a set period. The
business repays it with interest. The process is simple, but it requires basic documents
like income proof and a guarantor.
6. Certificates of Deposit: These are fixed-term deposits where the business deposits
money in a bank for a set period (usually 3 months to 1 year). The business gets a
fixed return at the end of the term.
7. Bills of Exchange: A bill of exchange is a written order where one party demands
payment from another at a future date. It's common in international trade but can also
be used for local transactions.
8. Customer Advances: Sometimes customers pay in advance for goods or services
before they’re delivered. This gives the business immediate cash and doesn’t require
interest payments unless the customer cancels.
9. Factoring: Factoring is when a business sells its accounts receivable (money owed
by customers) to a third party (called a factor) at a discount. It helps the business get
quick cash.
10. Bank Overdraft: A bank overdraft allows the business to borrow money by
overdrawing on its current account. The bank allows the business to spend more than
it has, up to an agreed limit, often secured by collateral like goods or assets.
In addition to traditional sources, there are several other ways businesses can get money.
Here are some of them:
1. Microfinance: Microfinance means small loans for people who don’t have much money
or a credit history. These loans are usually offered by NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial
Companies).The loans are for short periods and can help people start small businesses. But
not all NBFCs give loans to businesses, and some may charge higher interest rates than
banks.
2. Accelerators and Incubators: These are groups that help new businesses grow by giving
them money, advice, and support.
Accelerators:: Help businesses that have already started and want to grow faster.
They offer small investments and connect you with experienced mentors.
Incubators:: Help at the idea stage, when you’re just starting out. They offer office
space, mentorship, and help to turn your idea into a real business.
Note: Both may ask for a small share (equity) in your company. Getting into these programs
is competitive—only a few are accepted.
3. Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding means raising small amounts of money from many people
online. You share your business idea on platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or Ketto.
People give money in exchange for things like early access to your product or a small share
of your business. This works best if your idea is exciting and easy to promote.
4. Government Funding: The Indian government supports startups with money and
benefits. Startup India gives tax breaks, easier rules, and funding support (₹10,000 crore
fund). MUDRA Yojana offers loans up to ₹10 lakhs for small businesses. Many states also
have their own startup programs.
Introduction: Growth is essential for any business, big or small. Without growth, a business
will struggle to survive. Many businesses start small and grow over time through continuous
expansion. This process is known as the Enterprise Life Cycle, which has five key stages.
1. Start-Up Stage: This is when the business is just beginning. The company operates
on a small scale, and there is little or no competition. During this stage, businesses
often don't make profits yet.
2. Growth Stage: In this stage, the business gains recognition and acceptance from
customers. Sales and production increase, but the supply still doesn’t meet demand.
As competition starts to grow, businesses shift from just selling their product to
making customers try their product.
3. Expansion Stage: This is when the business starts to grow more rapidly. It might
open new branches or introduce new products. The business diversifies to take
advantage of more opportunities.
4. Maturity Stage: In this stage, competition becomes fierce. Sales still increase, but at
a slower rate, and profits start to decline. Some smaller businesses may exit the
market. Larger businesses may use strategies to stay afloat, like trading in old
products for new ones.
5. Decline Stage: This is the final stage. Sales drop sharply, often due to new
technologies, changing customer preferences, or outdated products. Businesses in this
stage often struggle to survive and may eventually shut down.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Horizontal Diversification
Vertical Diversification
Concentric Diversification
Conglomerate Diversification
3. Joint Venture: A joint venture is when two or more companies come together for
a specific project. They share the risks, costs, and profits. It’s usually a temporary
partnership that ends once the project is completed.
4. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are
ways for businesses to grow by combining with or buying other companies. A merger
happens when two companies combine to form one, while an acquisition happens
when one company buys another.
After economic reforms in 1991, M&A became a common way for businesses to quickly
grow. Examples include:
Introduction:
When an investor is thinking about putting money into a startup, they want to figure out how
much the company is worth and whether it will be a good investment. Since startups don’t
have a long track record or predictable performance like established businesses, investors use
different methods to estimate their value. These methods help even though the numbers might
be based on predictions and guesses.
1. Venture Capital Method: The Venture Capital Method (VC Method) is often
used for startups that haven’t made any revenue yet. It looks at what the startup could
potentially sell for in the future, called the terminal value, and how much the investor
expects to earn back (the ROI or return on investment). Here's how it works:
Terminal Value is the expected future price when the business is sold.
Post-money valuation is what the startup is worth after the investment.
Pre-money valuation is the value before the investment.
For example:
If a startup has a terminal value of $4 million and the investor wants a 20x return, the
calculations would be:
o Post-money Valuation = $4 million ÷ 20 = $200,000
o Pre-money Valuation = $200,000 - $100,000 (investment) = $100,000
You assign a score to each factor and use it to adjust the valuation of the startup.
4. Cost-to-Duplicate Method:
This method calculates how much it would cost to recreate the startup’s assets, like
equipment or technology. It doesn’t consider things like growth or brand value, so it gives a
lower estimate of the startup's worth. For example, you might add up the cost of hiring
developers and creating software.
6. Valuation by Stage Method: This method is used to value a startup based on how far
along it is in development. The more developed the startup, the higher its value. For example:
Idea or business plan: $250,000 - $500,000
Strong management team: $500,000 - $1 million
Product prototype: $2 million - $5 million
Strong customer base: $5 million and up
7. Comparables Method: This method compares the startup to similar businesses that have
been sold or valued recently. For example, if a startup with 250,000 users sold for $7.5
million, you could value a similar startup with 125,000 users by using the same per-user
value.
8. Book Value Method: This method values a startup based on its physical assets, like
buildings and equipment, without considering future growth or intangible things like brand
value. It’s usually used when a business is closing down.
1.6.4 Harvesting & Exit: An exit strategy is simply a plan for what happens when you're
ready to leave your business. It’s not about failure—it’s about having a clear plan for your
future. Some entrepreneurs even start businesses with the goal of exiting after a certain
number of years. Having a plan doesn’t mean you’re less committed; it just means you’re
prepared for the next step.
What is an Exit Strategy?: Exiting, or "harvesting," refers to the process of getting value
out of your business when you're ready to step away. Whether you're the owner or an
investor, having a viable exit strategy helps you walk away with what you want.
Common Exit Options:
Pros:
Cons:
Finding a family member who wants to or is capable of running the business can be
tough.
It could bring emotional and financial stress.
Employees or investors might not support your choice.
Pros:
The people who buy know the business and can keep the legacy intact.
They may want you to stay on as a mentor or advisor.
Cons:
3. Merger & Acquisition: In this exit strategy, your company either merges with another
business or is bought by another company. This can be a good way to get a clean break from
the business.
Pros:
Cons:
4. Sell Your Stake to a Partner/Investor: If you’re not the sole owner, you can sell
your share of the business to a partner or an investor. This can be a straightforward way to
exit, depending on the buyer.
Pros:
Cons:
5. Initial Public Offering (IPO): Some entrepreneurs dream of taking their company
public and selling shares to the public. This can result in a big payout, but it’s not an easy
process and doesn’t work for every business.
Pros: This is the most likely exit strategy to give you a significant profit.
Cons:
6. Liquidation: Liquidating means shutting down the business and selling off its assets.
This is the simplest but most final exit strategy.
Pros:
Cons:
7. Filing for Bankruptcy: Bankruptcy is often the last resort if your business is struggling
and you can’t find another way out. It’s an official process that relieves you of debt but
comes with its own challenges.
Pros:
Cons:
Definition
Corporate entrepreneurship is all about creating new business ventures within an established
company to boost profitability and strengthen the company's position in the market. It's a way
of staying competitive by developing innovations that can disrupt an industry or even create
entirely new industries.
Several factors within a company influence its ability to innovate and encourage
entrepreneurial behavior:
Resistance to change
The Inherent nature of large organizations
Lack of Entrepreneurial talent
Inappropriate compensation methods
Unit -2
What is Creativity?
Creativity is the ability to come up with something new and valuable. It can be an idea, a
theory, a song, or even a new product. Essentially, creativity is about finding new ways to
look at a problem Key points about creativity:
Types of Creativity
1. Technical Creativity:
o Also called "pure creativity."
o This involves creating new technologies or products.
2. Non-Technical Creativity:
o Known as "progress creativity."
o It focuses on creating new ideas for things like business strategies,
management styles, and organizational structures.
1. Creating Innovative Ideas: Entrepreneurship is all about coming up with new ideas.
Creativity is the skill that helps entrepreneurs find these fresh, innovative concepts.
It’s the process of thinking outside the box to solve problems or discover
opportunities.
2. Improving Products and Services:Creativity helps improve existing products or
services. It’s about finding new ways to make them better or different. With creative
thinking, entrepreneurs can spot what’s missing or how to improve what already
exists.
3. Finding New Business Opportunities: Creativity can help discover new business
niches. This could involve changing how things are made, how they’re delivered, or
even how services are provided. It’s about looking at the traditional business model
and changing it to meet new needs.
4. Driving Success: Success isn’t just about intelligence—creativity plays a key role.
Creative employees or entrepreneurs can bring fresh ideas that transform a
business. When creativity is nurtured, it can be a major factor in a company’s
success.
we can stimulate creativity within ourselves and our teams. This can help a business become
more innovative and competitive. Here are some techniques to help boost creativity:
1. Mind Mapping: This technique helps you brainstorm ideas by starting with a central idea
and branching out into related thoughts.
1. Encourage quantity of ideas first—don’t worry about whether they are "good"
or "bad".
2. Focus on thinking unconventionally and not limiting ideas based on
judgments.
3. Over time, refine the best ideas into more quality solutions.
Goal: Brainstorming helps build an environment where everyone can think
creatively without fear of judgment, leading to unique and unconventional ideas.
As a manager, one of your key responsibilities is to build and maintain a creative team that
is efficient, productive, and innovative. This involves several key actions and strategies
1. Having the Right People: Make sure your team members have the necessary technical
skills (like software or other tools) and the experience to perform their jobs well. Beyond
technical abilities, it's important that team members fit into the company culture. They should
have the right personality and soft skills to work well with the team. Ensure the team is
neither too small nor too large. Having the right number of people helps keep things efficient
and manageable.
2. Having the Right Process: A successful team isn't just creative, it's also productive. To
achieve this, managers need to Set clear expectations like deadlines and schedules so
everyone knows what’s expected. Ensure the team is working towards specific goals with a
well-organized approach.
3. Providing the Right Leadership: A good team leader must have the technical skills to
understand the work but also be able to inspire and motivate the team. They need to
communicate openly, encourage problem-solving together, and create an atmosphere where
failure and risk-taking are allowed.
4. Creating the Right Environment: The physical space where the team works matters too.
A creative team needs a collaborative and inspiring workspace. using spaces where people
can freely collaborate and share ideas, such as an a conference room for brainstorming. An
open, comfortable workspace encourages creativity and collaboration.
5. Providing the Right Vision: It's essential that the creative team understands the bigger
picture. They should know:
Creativity is all about transforming ideas into action and giving projects that extra edge.
Creative teams play a key role in this process by combining different talents and skills to
produce innovative outcomes. Here’s what creative teams usually do:
Creativity doesn't just happen; it’s built on a foundation of knowledge and practice. It
involves:
For a team to be truly creative, they need a broad set of skills, including:
1. The ability to come up with fresh ideas.
2. Being comfortable using creativity to solve problems and create new concepts.
3. Experience in the relevant fields.
4. Being able to share and present ideas confidently, both internally and to clients.
5. A drive to deliver the best quality work every time.
6. Creativity should lead to campaigns that deliver tangible results.
7. Excellent written and verbal skills to explain and promote ideas.
8. The ability to think literally (practical) and laterally (innovative).
1. Diversity Is Key: Don’t just fill your creative team with people from the same
background. A mix of skills and experiences from different areas, like marketing,
design, and tech, will bring in fresh perspectives and ideas.
2. Reward the Team, Not Just Individuals: Reward the whole team for creative ideas,
not just individual achievements. This encourages teamwork and collaboration, rather
than selfish competition or secrecy.
3. Teams Are Not Forever: Teams can get too familiar with each other, which can lead
to predictability and boredom. Change team members every 18-24 months to keep
things fresh and innovative.
4. Encourage Communication Between Teams: Teams can learn a lot from each other.
Organize meetings where different teams share their ideas and feedback. But avoid
excessive meetings that might distract from actual creative work.
5. Foster Friendly Rivalry: Light-hearted competition between teams can motivate
them to push themselves without creating too much stress. A bit of fun competition
can spark creativity.
6. Train Team Leaders in Creative Thinking: Leaders should know how to encourage
creativity, motivate their team, and guide the creative process. Too much criticism too
soon can squash creative ideas, so team leaders must balance feedback with support.
7. Solve Conflicts Quickly: If team members don’t get along, it can harm the team’s
creativity. Resolve issues quickly to avoid damaging the group dynamic.
8. Break Down Hierarchies: In creative teams, try to reduce power imbalances. When
everyone feels equal, it’s easier for people to share ideas and contribute without
worrying about pleasing a boss.
9. Provide Resources for Creativity: Make the workspace inspiring. Think beanbag
chairs, toys, art supplies, or even books that can spark ideas. Hands-on tools like
Legos can also help visualize and brainstorm new concepts.
10. Focus on Results, Not Just Methods: Set clear goals, but let teams choose their own
path to get there. Sometimes stepping outside the office—like visiting a museum or
going for a walk—can help spark creative ideas that you wouldn’t get stuck in a
meeting room.
What is Innovation?
It’s about taking creative ideas and turning them into real-world solutions that
improve people’s lives or make society better.
For example, the first telephone was an invention, while the first smartphone was an
innovation because it improved on the phone and added new features. Innovation takes an
idea and turns it into something useful or valuable, often with the goal of creating wealth or
solving problems.
Famous Innovators:
Innovation Process
Types of Innovation:
Creativity is all about thinking in new ways. It’s about coming up with fresh ideas
and seeing problems or opportunities from a different angle.
Innovation is doing those new things. It’s about taking creative ideas and turning
them into real-world solutions that improve people’s lives or make society better.
Entrepreneurship is where creativity + innovation come together. Entrepreneurs
take creative ideas, apply them, and turn them into businesses or products that meet a
market need.
There are a few key ingredients to help individuals or teams become more creative:
1. Expertise
2. Creative Thinking Skills
3. Intrinsic Motivation
On the company-wide level, you need the right environment to support creativity and
innovation:
UNIT-3
1.1 What is Social Entrepreneurship? Social entrepreneurship is all about recognizing the
social problems and achieving a social change by employing entrepreneurial principles,
processes and operations.
According to John Elkington and Pamela Hartigan, social entrepreneurship falls into three
main categories:
Social entrepreneurs drive innovation by coming up with new ideas, strategies, and solutions
to tackle social problems. These can range from improving working conditions and education
to helping communities and promoting better healthcare.
Social innovation is a key tool for change. It helps entrepreneurs gain the knowledge, skills,
and mindset needed to launch businesses that create positive social impact.
A non-profit organization is a group that focuses on social good rather than making money.
These include Churches, Public schools, Charities, Public hospitals. Their main goal is to
help society rather than earn profits.
1.6 History of Social Entrepreneurship
Social entrepreneurship is a relatively new term, but the idea has been around for a long time.
It became more widely recognized in the 2000s, especially after Charles Leadbeater's book
The Rise of the Social Entrepreneur. However, many historical figures, like Vinoba Bhave
(India’s Land Gift Movement), Robert Owen (Cooperative Movement), and Florence
Nightingale (Modern Nursing), had already created organizations to solve social problems
long before the term became popular.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, entrepreneurs worked to eliminate social issues like poverty,
child rights violations, and environmental problems. Andrew Mawson played a key role in
promoting social entrepreneurship, founding the Bow Centre in East London and earning
recognition for his efforts to improve community life.
Today, social entrepreneurship is more widespread than ever. Famous ventures include
Muhammad Yunus’s Grameen Bank, Bill Drayton’s Ashoka, and Vikram Akula’s SKS
Microfinance, among others. Even large companies are adopting social entrepreneurship by
opening schools, supporting farmers, promoting environmental sustainability, and funding
healthcare initiatives.
Social entrepreneurship has now become an important field of study in management courses,
and more young people are getting involved, eager to bring about positive social change.
A social entrepreneur is someone who identifies a major social problem and creates an
innovative solution to address it. Unlike traditional entrepreneurs, their main focus is solving
social issues, while profit-making is a secondary goal. They are passionate, motivated, and
visionary leaders who work to bring positive change to society.
Social entrepreneurs inspire and mobilize peopleo be part of the solution. Their efforts help
underserved communities by providing essential services such as microfinance, education,
healthcare, and banking in areas that lack access to these resources.
They also work to eliminate social stigmas and inequalities, making life better for
marginalized communities. While profit is not their main focus, they still need strong
financial skills to keep their initiatives running successfully.
"Whenever society is stuck or has an opportunity for change, it needs an entrepreneur to turn
that vision into reality. We need such leadership in education and human rights just as much
as we do in business." – Bill Drayton, Founder of Ashoka: Innovators for the Public
✅ Susan B. Anthony – Co-founded the first women’s temperance movement and was a key
leader in the women’s rights movement in the 19th century.
✅ Vinoba Bhave – Led India’s Land Gift Movement, redistributing land to the poor.
✅ Maria Montessori – Revolutionized early childhood education with the Montessori
Method.
✅ Florence Nightingale – Established the first nursing school and improved hospital
conditions.
✅ Rachel Brathen (Yoga Girl) – Used social media to connect people with online yoga,
health, and meditation services through her platform [Link].
Social entrepreneurs are change-makers who tackle major social problems with innovative
ideas and strong leadership. Here are some essential qualities that make them successful:
1. Creativity : Social entrepreneurs think outside the box and come up with solutions others
might not even consider. Their ability to innovate and find new ways to solve problems is
what drives their success.
2. Self-Confidence : Confidence helps them trust their vision and take bold steps when
others hesitate. In challenging situations, believing in their ideas keeps them moving forward.
4. Leadership : They inspire and mobilize people to support their cause. A strong leader
motivates a team and encourages others to be part of the solution.
5. Team Spirit & Collaboration: Social change requires teamwork! They work with
different people, listen to new ideas, and create solutions that benefit as many people as
possible.
6. Adaptability :The world is constantly changing, and social entrepreneurs adjust to new
challenges by finding creative ways to solve problems.
7. Openness to Collaboration: They know they can’t do it alone! Partnering with others,
whether organizations or individuals, increases their impact and helps bring their vision to
life.
8. Commitment to Social Welfare : Unlike businesses that do charity work for publicity,
social entrepreneurs are fully dedicated to improving society. They put in time, effort, and
resources to create real change.
9. Risk-Taking : Changing the world means taking big risks. Some social entrepreneurs
leave their jobs, invest their savings, or challenge social norms, all to make a positive
impact.
10. Strong Belief in Teamwork : Money and resources may be limited, but people power is
unlimited! Social entrepreneurs rely on teamwork, volunteers, and collective effort to bring
about real change.
1. determine Objectives: Social entrepreneurs prioritize people and their well-being. Their
mission is to uplift communities, bring positive change, and create sustainable solutions to
social and economic challenges.
3. Securing Resources: Social entrepreneurs bridge the gap between business and charity.
They find creative ways to secure funding, materials, and support to sustain their initiatives.
4. Using Technology and Equipment: Technology plays a key role in expanding their reach
and impact. Social entrepreneurs use digital tools, apps, and communication platforms to
spread awareness and improve their solutions.
5. Creating New Markets: They combine business strategies with social goals to create
markets that serve disadvantaged groups. Their approach challenges traditional business
models by focusing on long-term social benefits rather than just financial profit.
6. Promoting Human Rights: Social entrepreneurs may advocate for freedom, education,
and protection from discrimination, often helping the most vulnerable communities.
7. Managing Finances Efficiently: Beyond basic accounting, they ensure the organization's
financial sustainability. They carefully plan budgets, track cash flow, and make decisions that
keep the mission alive while covering operational costs.
Around the world, societies are facing big challenges like climate change, inequality, and
aging populations. Social entrepreneurs step in to create innovative solutions to these issues,
especially when governments or traditional businesses aren't addressing them. Their work is
becoming more recognized by governments and supported by organizations like Ashoka and
the Skoll Foundation, who help foster this kind of problem-solving. The academic
community is also studying social entrepreneurship more deeply, recognizing its growing
importance.
Social Innovation is all about coming up with new ways to solve social problems. This could
involve changing how society views issues like justice, education, sustainability, and
community development. Social innovators challenge the current systems and find new ways
to make things better. While social entrepreneurship and social innovation often overlap,
they’re not the same. Social innovation focuses on ideas and solutions that create social
value, while social entrepreneurship focuses on using innovation to create and spread
social value.
Organizations addressing social needs are spread across a spectrum. On one side, you have
non-profits, which rely on donations and focus on social needs. On the other side, there are
for-profit businesses, which focus on making money by meeting customer demands. In
between these two, you'll find social entrepreneurs and social innovators. These groups
address social or environmental issues, often using innovative products or services, and can
be structured in ways that mix business practices with social goals.
Social Entrepreneurship:
Social entrepreneurship is appealing because it can lead to real social change. People admire
social entrepreneurs, like Muhammad Yunus (Nobel Peace Prize winner), because they
come up with innovative solutions that improve people's lives, much like traditional
entrepreneurs (e.g., Steve Jobs). But what sets social entrepreneurs apart is that their main
goal is transformational social impact, not making money.
Traditional Entrepreneurs: Aim to make a profit by serving markets that can afford
their products or services.
Social Entrepreneurs: A social entrepreneur is someone who identifies a major
social problem and creates an innovative solution to address it. Unlike traditional
entrepreneurs, their main focus is solving social issues, while profit-making is a
secondary goal. They are passionate, motivated, and visionary leaders who work to
bring positive change to society.
Social entrepreneurs may work through both non-profit or for-profit models. While
they may earn income, their priority is to address social issues rather than generate
financial profit for investors.
Case Study 1: Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank
Muhammad Yunus is a social entrepreneur who created the Grameen Bank to help poor
people in Bangladesh who had no access to credit. Before Yunus, poor people couldn’t get
loans from regular banks, so they had to borrow money from moneylenders at very high
interest rates or beg on the streets. Yunus saw this unfair system and decided to do something
about it.
He lent $27 of his own money to 42 women in a village. The women used the money to start
small businesses, like tailoring clothes, and were able to pay back the loan, buy food, and
take care of their families. This showed Yunus that even small loans could help poor people
lift themselves out of poverty. Over time, the Grameen Bank grew, helping even more
people, and became a worldwide movement known for its microcredit system, which gives
small loans to people who don’t have access to traditional banking.
Robert Redford, the famous actor, became a social entrepreneur when he saw problems in the
film industry. Hollywood was focused on big-budget films that made a lot of money, often
ignoring smaller, independent filmmakers. He saw a new opportunity for change with new
video and digital editing technologies that could help filmmakers take control of their work.
In the 1980s, Redford created the Sundance Institute to help independent filmmakers by
giving them a space to work without the pressure of big money. He also started the Sundance
Film Festival to showcase their films to the public. Redford wanted to support filmmakers
whose work wasn’t recognized by Hollywood. Today, the Sundance Festival has become a
major event, and independent films are now an important part of the movie industry.
Victoria Hale is a social entrepreneur who created a nonprofit pharmaceutical company called
OneWorld Health. She was frustrated that big pharmaceutical companies focused on making
drugs for diseases that affect wealthy people, while ignoring diseases that affect poor
populations in developing countries.
Hale’s organization works to create affordable medicines for diseases that affect the poor,
like visceral leishmaniasis, a disease that kills many people each year. Hale’s company has
already developed and tested a drug to treat this disease, which is now approved by the Indian
government.
Although it’s still early in her venture, Hale is working hard to change the way
pharmaceutical companies operate. She hopes to make life-saving medicine accessible to
everyone, no matter how rich or poor. If successful, Hale’s work could inspire others and
create a new way of thinking about the pharmaceutical industry.
While there has been a boom in local businesses and startups in India, fueled by government
schemes and growing opportunities, entrepreneurs face a number of challenges as they start
and grow their ventures. Here are some common problems they face:
1) Financial & Cash Flow Management: Managing finances is one of the biggest hurdles
for new businesses. While you might have initial funds saved up, these can quickly deplete if
you don't manage cash flow properly. Many entrepreneurs struggle to meet their financial
obligations, including paying employees, vendors, and keeping the business running.
Solution:
2) Hiring Employees & Team Building: Hiring the right employees for a startup can be
very challenging. As an entrepreneur, you need a team that fits within your budget but also
has the skills to drive the business forward. Additionally, knowing how to build and maintain
a cohesive team is equally critical.
Solution:
3) Dealing with the Unknown & Self-Doubt: Starting a business can be a rollercoaster of
emotions, especially when you face doubts about whether your business will survive. New
entrepreneurs often feel unsure about the future, and the unknown can lead to anxiety and
stress.
Solution:
4) Decision-Making: Entrepreneurs must make hundreds of decisions every day. For new
business owners, even small decisions can feel like they’re critical for the success of the
company. It’s normal to experience decision fatigue and second-guess yourself, especially
when stakes are high.
Solution:
5) Facing Criticism: Every entrepreneur faces criticism, whether it's about their business
idea, product, or decisions. As a startup owner, you might face more of it, especially when
you’re just starting and working in an unfamiliar space.
Solution:
6) Finding Customers: Attracting customers is difficult when you’re new in the market.
People tend to stick with familiar brands, making it harder to sell your product or service.
New businesses also struggle with limited marketing budgets.
Solution:
7) Time Management: Entrepreneurs often juggle multiple roles when starting a business,
and this can lead to time management challenges. With limited time and resources, it’s easy
to become overwhelmed.
Solution:
Create a routine — break tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly goals.
Prioritize important work and avoid distractions.
Use tools like to-do lists, planners, or productivity apps.
Stay organized and take breaks to avoid burnout.
8) Lack of Structure: Unlike established companies with defined structures, startups often
begin without a clear organizational culture. This can lead to confusion, conflicts, and
employee turnover. Startups also lack historical marketing and sales data, which makes goal-
setting difficult.
Solution:
Solution:
Be clear about your company’s vision and regularly remind the team of it.
Keep everyone aligned and working toward the same big goal.
When the whole team is on the same page, things move faster and smoother.
10) Open Communication: In many startups, employees are busy with their own tasks, and
communication can become fragmented. As a result, critical information may not flow freely
between team members, leading to misunderstandings.
Solution:
Product Validation: Many startups rush into developing products without properly
understanding the problem they’re solving or validating the financial viability of their idea.
This can lead to wasted resources and a failed product.
Solution: Before building your product, make sure you fully understand the problem you’re
addressing and whether customers are willing to pay for the solution. Validate your idea early
by speaking to potential customers and gathering feedback to ensure that there is real demand
for your product.
A nonprofit organization (NPO) is a group dedicated to a social cause rather than making
profits for its members. Instead of distributing earnings, nonprofits use their funds to achieve
their mission. Since they serve the public good, they are usually tax-exempt and operate in
areas like religion, education, healthcare, and research.
1. Leadership Values Shape the Culture: Strong nonprofits start with strong values. These
values act like a compass, guiding how decisions are made and what the organization focuses
on. When leaders truly believe in and follow these values, they create a positive and
trustworthy culture. It keeps everyone on the same path and gives the nonprofit purpose.
2. Community Mapping: It’s important to understand the community you’re trying to help.
Community mapping means finding out what resources already exist—like local people,
businesses, and organizations—and what’s still needed. This helps you avoid repeating work
others are doing and lets you focus on real needs. It also helps you connect with future
volunteers, donors, and partners.
This keeps your nonprofit organized and moving forward with a clear plan.
5. Donors and Donation Allocation: Knowing who gives you money and how you use it is
very important. Learn what your donors care about and make sure donations are being used
well. This builds trust and encourages donors to keep supporting you. A good donor strategy
helps keep your nonprofit financially stable.
6. Web Presence: Having a website and online presence is a must today. Most people look
up organizations online before donating or volunteering. A clear, easy-to-use website helps
people understand what your nonprofit does, how they can help, and builds trust. It’s your
digital front door—so keep it welcoming and up to date!
When starting a social enterprise, you need money to get your idea off the ground. There are
two main types of people or organizations that can help fund your project:
Funders: These are people or organizations that give money to non-profits (social
missions).
Investors: These people give money to for-profit businesses that also focus on social
goals.
If you have a great idea, you’ll need funding or help to make it happen. Here’s a simple way
to think about it:
How much money can you raise based on what you’ve done so far and who you
know?
If you're part of a non-profit, will the board help fund the project or guarantee loans?
Some non-profits prefer smaller, low-risk projects.
If you’re not sure about getting outside funding, try bootstrapping. This means using your
own money or resources to get started.
Bootstrapping helps you get started with less risk and could be supported by volunteers.
Can you pay them back or give them a return on their investment?
If not, go for donors, foundations, or government programs.
Social Capital Partners offers links to organizations that can help fund your social
venture, whether you’re non-profit or for-profit.
The world needs social entrepreneurs, and social entrepreneurs need funding! But growing a
social enterprise isn’t always easy. Everyone talks about scaling, sustainability, and impact,
yet many social enterprises remain small, often with fewer than five people.
While there are many sources of funding—donations, grants, aid, banks, and impact investors
—getting financial support isn’t automatic. To attract funding, you need to show that:
Though corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds can help, they are not a long-term
solution. Donations and grants are often temporary, which means social enterprises must
think beyond charity.
Many assume social entrepreneurship is simply a mix of “social” and “entrepreneurship,” but
it’s more complex. Growth refers to increasing the size and reach of an organization (more
staff, more resources), while scaling means increasing impact without necessarily using more
resources.
A strong social enterprise should plan for its eventual obsolescence—meaning, if the venture
successfully solves a problem, the need for the organization itself should decrease over time.
Two Ways to Scale
As Auma Obama, founder of the Sauti Kuu Foundation, says: Instead of just teaching a
person to fish, start by asking, “Do they eat fish?” This means understanding real needs
before offering solutions.
1. Identify an idea.
2. Analyze the market and environment.
3. Choose a product or service.
4. Select an organizational structure.
5. Prepare a project report.
6. Choose a location.
7. Arrange funding.
8. Register the enterprise.
9. Secure utilities (power, water, etc.).
10. Hire and train workers.
11. Obtain raw materials.
12. Begin operations.
13. Market your product/service.
14. Get permanent registration.
15. Generate profit and reinvest.
UNIT-4
The Entrepreneur
An entrepreneur is someone who starts a business, takes risks, and enjoys the rewards of
success. They bring new ideas, products, and services to the market, helping drive economic
growth and innovation. Here are some key roles entrepreneurs play:
1. Increase in Per Capita Income: Entrepreneurs help boost the country’s per capita
income (average income per person). They create new businesses, especially small
enterprises, which energize the economy. These ventures: Create job opportunities Develop
underdeveloped areas Uplift weaker sections of society By identifying profitable
opportunities, they help raise income levels and drive development.
4. Backward and Forward Linkages: Entrepreneurs help bridge the gap between
production and marketing:
Backward linkage: Businesses that provide inputs (e.g., improved seeds, farming
tools) to agriculture or other sectors.
Forward linkage: Businesses that process raw materials into finished/semi-finished
products.
These linkages help different sectors support each other, leading to faster economic growth
and stronger industry-agriculture connections.
They invest money and resources into an idea that may or may not succeed.
They take responsibility for the success or failure of the business. To manage risk,
they might involve investors or shareholders who also have a stake in the business
and want it to succeed.
1. Economic Infrastructure: They may build things like roads, transport systems, or
warehouses to support their business and the economy.
2. Financial Infrastructure: Entrepreneurs often create new ways to gather and use
money. For example, finding new investment methods or financial services is itself a
kind of entrepreneurship.
3. Social Infrastructure: Social entrepreneurs create health centers, schools, and other
services that benefit society. These may be created by individuals, companies, or non-
profits.
10. Liaison Role: The entrepreneur acts as a link between the business and the outside
world:
11. Information Provider and Receiver: The entrepreneur is the key communicator:
Collects and shares important information within and outside the organization
Makes sure decisions are based on up-to-date and accurate info
They act as a bridge between departments, employees, partners, and the public.
12. Resource Allocator Role: The entrepreneur decides how to distribute resources
like:
Money
Time
Manpower They make sure every department has what it needs to succeed and meet
goals efficiently.
They aim to create “win-win” deals that benefit both the company and the people they work
with.
ENTREPRENUERSHIP PERSONALITY
Entrepreneurs are different from non-entrepreneurs mainly because of their personality
traits—the unique qualities that shape how they think, feel, and behave.
Extraversion: Entrepreneurs don’t work in isolation. They constantly meet clients, talk to
suppliers, negotiate deals, and lead teams. That’s why being outgoing really helps.
Extroverted entrepreneurs enjoy connecting with people. They are full of energy, cheerful,
and open to social interactions. This helps them build strong networks, keep their team
motivated, and create a positive work environment. They’re usually natural leaders and better
at the “people side” of business.
Agreeableness Business success isn’t just about ideas—it’s also about relationships.
Agreeable entrepreneurs are kind, cooperative, and understanding. They listen to others, trust
their team, and are willing to help. This makes it easier for them to build partnerships, earn
loyalty from employees, and create a business culture where people enjoy working. And
because people like working with them, they’re less likely to face internal conflicts or high
employee turnover.
Conscientiousness: This is the “get things done” trait. Conscientious entrepreneurs are
reliable, well-organized, and highly disciplined. They set goals and work steadily towards
them. They don’t give up easily and are always looking for better ways to solve problems.
This trait includes being detail-oriented, following rules, and managing time well.
Entrepreneurs with high conscientiousness are often the ones who survive and succeed in the
long run because they are consistent and committed to their mission.
According to R.G. Donnelley, a family business is one that involves at least two generations
of a family, with family members influencing both business decisions and family interests.
1. A family business is managed and run by people from one or more families.
2. The roles and positions in the business are often influenced by family relationships.
3. The family’s interests shape the company’s policies and decisions.
4. Family businesses remain loyal to the founder’s principles, ensuring consistency in
operations.
5. The involvement of family members helps in effectively using in-house skills and
expertise.
6. Dedicated family members ensure the business survives even in tough times.
7. The success of a family business depends on the level of understanding and unity
within the family.
8. Even family members who are not actively involved still hold a stake in the business.
9. The values of a family business reflect the values and traditions of the family itself.
10. Family members have legal control over the business.
3.2 Family-Owned and Managed Business: In this type of business, the family not only
owns a majority of shares but also actively manages the company. At least one family
member holds a top management position, giving the family control over the company's
goals, strategies, and decision-making processes.
3.3 Family-Owned and Led Company: Here, the family owns a controlling stake in the
business, but instead of managing day-to-day operations, at least one family member is on the
Board of Directors. This allows them to influence the company’s direction, culture, and
policies at a high level.
3.4 Types of Family Firms
According to research by Quick Fernando and Ana Beatriz, family businesses can be
categorized based on ownership (who controls the shares) and management (who runs the
business). They identified six types of family firms:
1. Average Family Firms – Fully owned and managed by family members, with a
strong focus on family values and objectives.
2. Professional Family Firms – Family-owned but managed by non-family
professionals, balancing family and business goals.
3. Cousin Consortium Family Firms – Ownership is spread among extended family
members, but management is still dominated by family.
4. Professional Cousin Consortium Family Firms – Ownership is diluted among
family members, and management is led by non-family professionals.
5. Transitional Family Firms – Ownership is partly shared with outsiders, but family
members still dominate management. These firms are in the process of reducing
family control.
6. Open Family Firms – Both ownership and management are more open to outsiders,
with a stronger focus on financial performance rather than family objectives.
Every family business has its own unique culture, whether it’s just starting out or has been
running for generations. This culture is shaped by the values, beliefs, and assumptions of the
family leaders.
Assumptions: Leaders' views on trust, decision-making, and how they balance past
traditions with future growth.
Perspectives: The shared understanding of how things should be done, such as hiring,
problem-solving, and employee promotions.
Values: The core principles that guide the business, like maintaining family
traditions, fairness, and customer service.
Artifacts: Visible signs of culture, such as dress codes, branding, workplace
formality, and communication styles.
Since it can be difficult for family business leaders to objectively assess their own culture,
seeking outside advice can help them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.
Challenges Faced by a Family-Owned Business
Running a family business comes with unique challenges. Some of the most common issues
include:
Running a family business successfully requires balance between personal relationships and
professional management. Here are some key principles to keep things running smoothly:
Set Boundaries: Keep business and family life separate. Avoid discussing work at
family gatherings like weddings or holidays.
Communicate Regularly: Hold weekly meetings to track progress, address concerns,
and resolve disputes before they grow into bigger issues.
Clearly Define Roles: Assign specific responsibilities to avoid overlap and conflict.
While major decisions can be made together, debating every small detail will slow
progress.
Prioritize Business Needs: A family business should be run professionally.
Sometimes, business decisions may not align with family harmony, and that’s okay.
Leverage Family Strengths: Family businesses have unique advantages, such as
access to trusted labor and financial support in tough times. Use these strengths
wisely.
Be Fair: Treat family and non-family employees equally in terms of pay, promotions,
and expectations. Avoid favoritism to maintain a positive work environment.
Put Agreements in Writing: Clearly outline roles, salaries, and ownership shares in
writing to prevent misunderstandings later.
Avoid "Sympathy" Hires: Only employ family members based on skills and
qualifications, not just because they need a job.
Respect Management Hierarchies: Ensure family members do not interfere with
employees outside their authority. This prevents workplace resentment.
Seek Outside Advice: Sometimes, family businesses can become too narrow-minded.
Getting input from external advisors brings fresh perspectives and better decision-
making.
Plan for Succession: A clear plan should outline who will take over the business and
how. Professional help can ensure a smooth and financially sound transition.
Gain Outside Experience First: Encourage family members to work elsewhere for
at least 3-5 years before joining the business. This broadens their skills and
perspectives.
This agreement acts as a contract between shareholders, offering protection and defining
procedures for handling important decisions.
In most companies, the management team handles the daily operations, while the board of
directors focuses on bigger, strategic decisions. In large companies, these groups are
separate. But in small family-run companies, they’re often the same people.
Majority vote (51%): For example, increasing the company’s authorized share
capital
Special majority (75%): For big changes like altering the company’s constitution or
changing its name
However, important decisions like taking on debt or making big purchases aren’t always
covered by company law. That’s where a shareholders’ agreement helps — it can require that
key decisions (like borrowing money, selling parts of the business, paying dividends, etc.)
need approval from, say, 75% or even 90% of shareholders.
Also, while a company’s official rules (Articles of Association) can be changed by 75% of
votes, a shareholders’ agreement usually requires all shareholders to agree before it can be
changed. This gives extra protection to minority shareholders.
6.4 Transfer of Shares: The agreement can include rules on how shares can be transferred.
These rules help avoid future problems, such as shares ending up in the wrong hands.
6.5 Control: provisions can rule that certain transactions may not be undertaken without the consent
of a specified shareholder. This allows the shareholder to maintain control and protect his/her
investment.
6.6 Preventing outsiders from becoming shareholders:: Provisions can oblige shareholders not to
sell their shares to third parties without first offering them for sale to the existing shareholders or to
the company at a specified price.
6.7 Providing for situations on death/divorce: : The agreement can cover situations like
death or divorce. It might say shares must be transferred to another family member, or
bought back by the company, so ownership stays with people the business trusts.
7. Family Conflict
Family conflict happens when family members disagree or misunderstand each other. It can
occur between couples, parents and children, or siblings.
Family conflict can happen for many reasons. It often develops when family members have
different beliefs or viewpoints, when there are misunderstandings, when someone feels hurt
or unappreciated and starts to build resentment, or when miscommunication leads to mistaken
assumptions and arguments.
Family Life Stages: Different stages of family life often bring challenges that can lead to
conflict. These include:
Each of these stages can bring stress and change, creating many opportunities for conflict.
Major Life Changes: Family conflict also tends to arise during big life changes, such as:
Separation or divorce
Moving to a new town
Starting a new job or school
Commuting long hours for work
Financial difficulties
These changes can disrupt routines and put extra pressure on family members, which can lead
to tension.
Changing Needs and Values: Over time, family members may grow and change. Their
needs, opinions, and values may shift, leading to disagreements. This can happen:
Money Issues: Money is one of the most common sources of family conflict. It can stem
from:
Parenting and Discipline: Conflicts often arise when parents disagree about how to raise or
discipline their children. For example, one parent may take on the role of the "good parent"
while the other becomes the "bad parent" — or one may be strict, while the other is more
lenient. These roles can create unhealthy divisions within the family.
Sibling Rivalry: Jealousy and competition between siblings can lead to teasing, arguments,
or even physical fights. If a parent shows favoritism, this can make the situation worse.
Sibling rivalry is normal, but it needs to be managed by parents so it doesn't harm a child’s
emotional or social development.
In-Laws and Extended Family: Conflict can also arise when extended family members —
such as in-laws — become too involved in the private matters of the nuclear or blended
family. These situations often lead to conflict, especially when people have different
boundaries, expectations, or values.
Conflicts in family businesses are common, but they can be managed effectively. Here are
five steps to prevent and resolve them:
1. Hire Wisely: If possible, avoid hiring family members, especially if they lack
business experience. Mixing personal and professional relationships can lead to
complications.
2. Hold Family Meetings: Regular meetings help address concerns before they escalate.
Use these meetings to discuss business updates, future plans, and any conflicts.
3. Establish Shared Family Values and Goals: Ensure everyone understands the
business vision and how it benefits both the family and the company. Promote ethical
behavior that aligns with business goals.
4. Use a Structured Conflict Resolution Approach: Conflicts are inevitable, but they
can be handled professionally. Consider forming a grievance committee or council to
mediate disputes.
5. Seek Professional Mediation When Needed: Some conflicts require external help. A
neutral mediator can help resolve disputes objectively and fairly.
Conflicts often arise due to cognitive and emotional biases. Here are some common pitfalls
and how to avoid them:
Self-Serving Fairness – People tend to believe their perspective is the most fair. For
example, department heads may each think they deserve the biggest budget, leading to
disputes.
Overconfidence – People overestimate their chances of success, Example: Someone
refuses to settle a lawsuit, thinking they’ll win in court—and they lose time and
money.
Escalation of Commitment : We keep pushing forward with a bad plan because
we’ve already invested time or money. Example: Continuing a costly legal battle just
because you already spent thousands in legal fees.
Conflict Avoidance: We avoid hard conversations because they feel uncomfortable.
But ignoring the problem often makes it worse and harder to fix later.
Better Ways to Resolve Conflict
Negotiation: You and the other person try to work it out yourselves. Understand each
other’s real needs and make trade-offs. Find out what each side truly wants (Know
your BATNA = Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement. Look for win-win
options. Example: Two coworkers arguing about project responsibilities agree to split
tasks based on their strengths.
Mediation: A neutral third party (mediator) helps you talk things through. The
mediator doesn’t decide for you—they help you find a solution. It helps people talk
calmly, privately, and openly. Example: Two teams can’t agree on shared resources,
so HR brings in a trained mediator to guide the discussion.
Arbitration: A neutral person (arbitrator) listens to both sides and makes a final
decision. You have to accept the outcome. Example: Two companies dispute a
contract. Instead of going to court, they let an arbitrator decide.
Litigation: A judge or jury makes a final decision in court, often after lengthy legal
proceedings. Since lawsuits can be costly and public, alternative methods are usually
preferred.
A family business is a company where multiple family members are involved as owners or
managers, or a business passed down through generations. The success of such a business
depends on strong leadership. Contrary to popular belief, leaders are not just born—they
develop their skills over time. In a family business, the leader plays a crucial role in shaping
the company’s direction and success. That’s why preparing the next generation of leaders is
essential.
Key Leadership Qualities for Family Business Success
1. Vision – A leader must have a clear vision that defines the purpose and future of the
business. This vision guides decision-making and helps the company grow. Without a
strong vision, leadership lacks direction.
2. Entrepreneurial Mindset – A great leader takes risks, makes strategic investments,
and drives the business forward. They don’t just manage the company—they actively
work towards growth and success by setting clear goals and strategies.
3. Inspiring Others – A strong leader motivates and influences others to work towards
the same goal. While skills can be learned, commitment and passion for the vision
must come from within.
4. Setting Standards – A leader must set clear performance standards for employees.
When expectations are well-defined, employees know what’s required and can align
their efforts with the business goals.
5. Understanding People – A successful leader knows that people drive the business.
Keeping employees motivated and customers satisfied is key to long-term success.
6. Measuring Performance – Tracking progress is crucial. Leaders should regularly
assess whether the business is on track to meet its goals. If not, adjustments must be
made, and employees should be rewarded for good performance.
Succession in a family business means passing down management and ownership to the next
generation. This process may also include transferring family assets.
Ensures that skilled and motivated people are ready to take over important roles when
senior employees leave.
Aligns the company’s long-term goals with its workforce, helping to recruit and retain
top talent.
Builds the company’s reputation as a great place to work by showing that it invests in
its employees.
Makes employees feel valued, knowing that the company is preparing them for future
leadership.
8.1 Unplanned Succession: When there’s no clear plan for who takes over the business, the
new leader might be unprepared and make poor decisions. This can hurt the future of the
business. That’s why mentoring and training a successor early on is so important.
8.2 No Set Retirement Time: In many family businesses, the owners don’t set a clear
retirement date. This can create confusion about when the next generation should take over.
8.3 Ongoing Control by the Older Generation: It’s often hard for the older generation to
fully step back. But if they keep controlling things, it can make the new leader look weak and
affect how others see them.
8.4 Poor Communication in the Family: Many family members are involved in the
business, but if there’s not enough open and honest communication, misunderstandings and
conflicts can arise. This can harm both the family and the business.
8.5 Sibling Rivalry: Brothers and sisters may compete or argue over who should take charge.
This often comes from favoritism or unequal treatment. It’s important to handle these issues
quickly to avoid long-term problems.
8.6 Leadership Dilemma: Choosing the right person to lead the business is key. The next
leader should be well-educated, motivated, and committed to the company’s success.
8.7 Succession Management (Made Simple): Succession management means making sure
that the most important jobs in the business are never left empty. It’s about having a plan to
find and train the right people to step into key roles when needed—especially leadership
positions. Think of it as being ready with a strong backup, just in case.
9.1 Planning for Succession The owner should get an external evaluation of the business to
understand its current position and future potential.
9.2 Preparing for Succession Once the evaluation is done, the owner should start planning
for retirement. This includes creating a legal will to prevent disputes among family members.
9.3 Preparing the Family Succession plans should be communicated clearly to all family
members, as emotions can run high when money and power are involved.
9.4 Preparing the Business The owner must ensure the business is ready for leadership
changes to make the transition smooth.
9.5 Identifying the Future Leader Traditionally, the eldest son takes over, but if they are
unwilling or unfit, another capable person should be chosen to ensure the business’s success.
9.6 Mentoring the Successor The chosen successor should be trained by involving them in
meetings, decision-making, and client interactions.
9.7 Retirement The owner should step back completely, allowing the new leader to take full
charge and gain confidence.
9.8 Complete Succession The successor officially takes over, with the previous owner
available for advice when needed.
A woman entrepreneur is someone who starts and manages her own business. She is a self-
employed individual contributing to the nation's economy through innovation, leadership, and
job creation. Women entrepreneurs demonstrate confidence, creativity, and economic
independence while balancing personal, family, and social responsibilities.
Factors Motivating Women Entrepreneurs Women in business were once rare, but today,
many are leading successful ventures. Their motivation to enter entrepreneurship stems from
two main factors:
10.1.1 Family Responsibilities: Women, especially in India, often have to take care of
household work, children, and elderly family members. These responsibilities take up a lot of
time and energy, making it hard to focus on a business.
10.1.2 Male-Dominated Society: Even though the law says men and women are equal,
society still favors men. Many women need permission from their family before starting a
business. Business is still often seen as a “man’s job,” which makes it harder for women to
grow.
10.1.3 Lack of Education: Many women in India don’t have access to quality education.
Without proper education, they miss out on learning about technology, marketing, and
government help that could support their business.
10.1.4 Social Restrictions: Customs and traditions in some communities stop women
from stepping out and growing their businesses. In rural areas, social pressure is even
stronger, and people often doubt a woman’s ability to succeed in business.
10.1.5 Difficulty Getting Raw Materials: It can be hard for women to find and afford
the materials they need to run their businesses, especially when prices are high or supplies are
low.
10.1.6 Money Problems: Banks and financial institutions are often hesitant to give loans
to women. They see women as a higher risk. Also, delays in payments from customers or
getting stuck with unsold goods can lead to money problems.
10.1.7 Tough Market Competition: Women often use simpler, low-cost technology in
their businesses, which makes it hard to compete with bigger or more advanced companies
run by men.
10.1.8 High Production Costs: Because of outdated methods and less efficient
management, women-led businesses sometimes spend more on producing their products,
making it harder to earn profits.
10.1.9 Fear of Risk: Many women are cautious by nature, and with limited education or
support, they’re less likely to take business risks—which are often necessary for success.
10.1.10 Limited Mobility: Due to traditional values, women often can’t travel freely, stay
out late, or go to different places for business. Younger women also face unwanted attention,
which makes it uncomfortable to work freely.
10.1.11 Lack of Business Mindset: Some women may not naturally think like
entrepreneurs, and even after training, they might struggle to apply what they’ve learned
when real problems come up.
10.1.13 Legal Hassles: Dealing with paperwork, licenses, and approvals from government
offices is hard for anyone, but even more so for women—because of corruption, delays, and
lack of guidance.
10.1.15 Low Self-Confidence: Balancing work and family is tough. Many women feel
unsure of themselves and may even give up their business dreams to keep their families
happy.
Despite All These Challenges...:Many women have broken barriers and become
successful entrepreneurs. Some inspiring names include:
Oprah Winfrey
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw
Ekta Kapoor
Indra Nooyi
Huda Kattan
Tory Burch
Arianna Huffington
Sophia Amoruso
Mary Kay Ash
Neelam Dhawan
Sunita Narain
JK Rowling
Jenna Jameson
11.1 Mudra Loan for Women: The government introduced the Mudra Loan to help
women start small businesses like beauty salons, tuition centers, or tailoring shops. No
collateral is required. The loan has three categories:
11.2 Annapurna Scheme: This scheme provides loans of up to ₹50,000 for women in the
food catering business. The loan covers costs like buying utensils, grinders, hot cases, and
tiffin boxes. The first EMI is waived, and repayment is done in 36 months. The interest rate
depends on the market and the bank.
11.3 Stree Shakti Yojana: This scheme supports women with majority ownership in a
business. To qualify, applicants must complete the Entrepreneurship Development
Program (EDP) from a state agency. Women get a 0.05% interest discount on loans above
₹2 lakh.
11.4 Dena Shakti Scheme This scheme provides loans of up to ₹20 lakh for women in
agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and small businesses. A 0.25% interest discount is
offered. Women can also get up to ₹50,000 under the micro-credit category.
11.5 Bhartiya Mahila Bank Business Loan: The Bhartiya Mahila Bank (BMB) offers
women entrepreneurs loans up to ₹20 crore for working capital, business expansion, or
manufacturing.
11.6 Mahila Udyam Nidhi Yojana: Offered by Punjab National Bank and SIDBI, this
scheme provides up to ₹10 lakh to start small businesses. The loan is repayable in 10 years,
and the interest rate varies with the market.
11.7 Orient Mahila Vikas Yojana Scheme: This scheme by Oriental Bank of Commerce
is for women with at least 51% ownership in a business. Loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹25
lakh do not require collateral. The repayment period is 7 years, with an interest discount of
up to 2%.
11.8 Cent Kalyani Scheme: Available for both new and existing businesses, including
farming, cottage industries, and retail. No collateral or guarantor is required. The loan interest
depends on the market, and the repayment period is up to 7 years.
11.9 Udyogini Scheme: The Women Development Corporation runs this scheme to help
women, especially those in rural areas, start businesses. Loans are available at low interest
rates and can be used for business expansion, equipment purchases, and other operations.
Family businesses often face changes, whether due to new leadership, ownership shifts, or
governance restructuring. Managing these transitions well is crucial.
1. Natural Change – Inevitable changes, such as senior members retiring and the next
generation taking over.
2. Planned Change – Intentional changes, like hiring independent directors or
transitioning from a family-managed to a family-owned business.
Change involves both practical and emotional challenges. Some families adapt quickly, while
others resist change. Here are effective strategies to handle transitions smoothly:
1. Get Everyone Involved: Include more family members in discussions about change.
Listen to their thoughts and make them feel part of the process.
2. Educate the Family: Make sure everyone understands what the change is, why it’s
happening, and how it affects the bigger picture.
3. Explain the Purpose: Connect the change to the family's long-term goals or values. When
people see the bigger picture, they’re more likely to support it.
4. Start Small with a Task Force: Form a small group of trusted family members to test out
the change before applying it to the whole business.
5. Use a “Change Champion”: Find a passionate family member who believes in the change
and can motivate others to get on board.
6. Plan for Both Family and Business: Think about how change in the business affects the
family, and vice versa. Make sure your plans take both sides into account.
7. Learn New Skills: Use the change as a chance to grow. Take training or learn new skills
to deal better with the new situation.
8. Hire a Consultant: Sometimes an outside expert can help make things clearer and guide
the family through difficult changes.
9. Let People Step Away Gracefully: If some family members don’t want to be part of the
new direction, allow them to leave the business peacefully and respectfully.
Change doesn’t have to be scary. It can actually be a great chance to grow, build trust, and
learn new things. Here are a few helpful reminders:
✅ Start with Understanding: People are more likely to support change when they clearly
understand it.
✅ Expect Resistance: It’s totally normal for people to push back at first. Instead of fighting
it, listen and work through it together.
✅ Think of Both Sides Remember: Change isn’t just about what’s happening (situational),
but also how people feel about it (emotional).
✅ Be Patient: Real, lasting change takes time. Don’t rush it. Plan well and give it space to
work.
✅ Be Proactive: Don’t wait for problems. Plan for change early and use smart strategies to
make it smoother.
UNIT-5
Many factors influence how a business arranges its finances. These factors help decide how
much money is needed and where it should come from. Let’s go through them in simple
terms:
2. Size of Business: Larger businesses need more land, buildings, and machinery, which
means they require more money for both fixed capital and working capital. Smaller
businesses, on the other hand, need less.
5. Economic and Social Environment: If people prefer investing in industries rather than
spending money on buying goods and services, businesses may need less finance. Vice versa.
6. Time Taken to Sell Products If products sell quickly after production, less money is
needed. If it takes longer to sell the products, businesses need more funds to keep running in
the meantime.
7. Terms of Purchase and Sale: If a business can buy raw materials on credit but sells its
products for cash, it needs less money. If a business has to pay cash upfront for materials
but sells on credit, it will need more finance.
8. Business Cycle: During a boom (when business is growing), companies need more
working capital but less fixed capital. During a slow period, businesses may need extra funds
to survive.
10. Growth and Expansion Opportunities: Businesses that grow quickly often need less
financial support because they generate revenue faster. Businesses with slow growth need
more funds to keep running.
11. Scale of Distribution: If a business sells products in large quantities, it needs more
money. If it sells in smaller quantities, its financial requirements are lower.
Many other things can affect a business’s financial needs, such as:
Availability of transportation
Government policies
Changes in money supply
Possibilities of war or economic instability
Loan Syndication
A syndicated loan is when a group of lenders, called a "syndicate," work together to lend
money to a single borrower. This borrower can be a large company, a big project, or even a
government. These loans are used when the amount of money needed is too large for one
lender to provide or when special expertise is needed.
Who is Involved in a Syndicated Loan?
1. Arranging Bank (Lead Manager): This bank is hired by the borrower to organize
the loan. They work out the terms of the loan with the borrower and then find other
banks to join the syndicate and share the lending risk. The main bank also holds a big
portion of the loan.
2. Agent: The agent acts as a link between the borrower and the lenders. They handle
administrative tasks, like giving lenders the necessary information, but they don’t give
financial advice to either party.
3. Trustee: The trustee is in charge of holding the borrower’s assets as security for the
loan. If the borrower defaults, the trustee makes sure the assets are used to pay back
the lenders.
1. Less Time and Effort: The borrower only needs to meet with the arranging bank to
set up the loan terms. The arranging bank then takes care of bringing other banks into
the deal and working out how much each one will contribute.
2. Flexible Loan Terms: Since several lenders are involved, the loan can have different
terms, like fixed or floating interest rates. The borrower can also borrow in different
currencies, which helps reduce the risk of changes in currency value.
3. Large Loan Amounts: Syndicated loans allow borrowers to access much larger
amounts of money, which is helpful for big projects like building large equipment,
mergers, or energy projects. A single lender wouldn’t be able to provide that much
money on their own.
4. Better Reputation: Successfully paying back a syndicated loan helps the borrower
build a good reputation, making it easier to get loans in the future.
1. Time-Consuming Negotiations: Even though the borrower only needs to deal with
one bank, negotiating the loan can still take time because the terms need to be
discussed with all the lenders in the syndicate.
2. Managing Multiple Bank Relationships: Keeping track of all the banks involved in
the loan can be difficult and requires extra time and money.
Consortium Finance
Consortium financing happens when a company needs a large loan and goes to more than one
bank for help. The banks work together to provide the money and share the loan amount. This
helps reduce the risk for each bank. One bank, called the leader bank, provides the most
money and is in charge of coordinating the other banks. The borrower only deals with the
leader bank for the loan process.
Example: If a company needs ₹100 crores for business development and no single bank is
willing to provide all the money, the company can approach multiple banks. The banks agree
to lend together and share the amount. The bank that lends the most is the leader bank, and
all the banks sign loan documents with the borrower. The borrower gives one common
security to all banks.
Consortium financing is used when a single bank can’t handle the high loan amount or the
loan is too risky. It’s different from loan syndication, as it’s not about international
transactions—just a large or risky loan. In a consortium, multiple banks join together to
provide and manage the loan. They create a joint agreement and share responsibility.
Sometimes, they even form a new bank just to handle the loan for the project. The bank that
takes on the most risk is the leader and manages all the agreements and processes.
The lead bank arranges and conducts regular consortium meetings with all the
member banks.
It gathers all the necessary documents, details, and clarifications from the borrower.
It makes arrangements for a joint review of the loan request by all the banks.
Then, it prepares a joint report and shares it with the group for final decisions.
The lead bank helps fix the total loan amount and how much each bank will lend.
It takes care of important papers and security documents on behalf of all the banks
in the consortium.
It works to keep good relationships with other financial institutions at the national or
state level.
It collects monthly stock and legal reports from the borrower and checks that
enough stock is maintained to support the loan.
When the borrower pays back money, the lead bank distributes it fairly among all
member banks.
The lead bank makes sure the borrower uses the money only for business production
purposes and that all money transactions happen through the Cash Credit Account
at the lead bank.
They take part in consortium meetings and give their suggestions to help make smart
decisions.
They allow the lead bank to take decisions that are in the best interest of the whole
group.
They can’t change their share of the loan or ask for repayment of losses without
first getting approval from the rest of the group.
They must follow the terms and conditions that were agreed upon with the lead bank
and other member banks.
Commercial banks provide various financial services to businesses and the public, helping
with the overall stability and growth of the economy. Specifically, banks assist entrepreneurs
in the following ways:
1. Capital Formation: Banks collect small savings from people across the country and turn
them into funds for business use. This helps entrepreneurs get access to the money they need
to start or grow their businesses. Banks also offer attractive saving schemes that encourage
people to save their money instead of letting it sit unused.
2. Cash Credit: Cash credit allows businesses to borrow money even if they don’t have a
positive balance in their account, up to a set limit. Interest is charged only on the amount
used, not on the total credit limit. To get this facility, entrepreneurs need to offer something
as security—like stock or property.
3. Overdraft An overdraft is similar to cash credit. It lets you withdraw more than what you
have in your account, up to an approved limit. You only pay interest on the amount you
actually use and for how long you use it. It’s great for short-term cash needs or managing
unexpected expenses.
4. Demand Loans: A demand loan can be asked to be repaid by the bank at any time. It also
gives borrowers the freedom to repay the loan early without any extra charges. This type of
loan is usually backed by a simple agreement called a promissory note.
5. Term Loans: These are loans given for a specific time period, usually with fixed interest
and regular repayments (monthly or quarterly).
6. Consumer Credit: This is a personal loan taken to buy everyday goods or services. Credit
cards are a common example. Usually, it’s unsecured (no collateral) and meant for short-term
needs.
7. Bills Purchased: In trade, when a seller sells something, they might need cash before the
buyer pays. The bank buys these bills (documents showing the sale) and gives the seller quick
funds. Later, the bank collects the money from the buyer.
8. Bills Discounted: Similar to bills purchased, but in this case, the seller gives the bank a bill
before its due date. The bank gives the seller the money after deducting a small fee
(discount). The bank then collects the full payment from the buyer when it’s due.
9. Export-Import Credit
When a business applies for a loan, financial institutions follow these steps to decide whether
to approve or reject the application:
Step 1: Submission of Loan Application The entrepreneur submits a loan application form
with detailed information about the project, including:
Step 2: Initial Processing of Loan Application An officer from the financial institution
checks the application to ensure it’s complete. If anything is missing, the borrower is asked to
provide more information. Once the application is complete, a "flash report" is prepared
summarizing the key details, which will help decide if the project should be thoroughly
reviewed.
Step 3: Appraisal of the Proposed Project A detailed appraisal is done to assess various
aspects of the project:
Step 5: Acceptance of Terms The borrower’s board meeting will discuss and accept the
terms mentioned in the letter of sanction. The borrower must inform the financial institution
of the acceptance within the given time.
Step 6: Execution of Loan Agreement After the borrower accepts the terms, the financial
institution sends the loan agreement draft for the borrower to sign and return, ensuring
everything is properly stamped.
Step 7: Disbursement of Loans The loan is disbursed in stages, with the borrower providing
progress updates and financial reports. The final loan amount is only disbursed once all
conditions are met.
Step 8: Creation of Security The loan is secured by a mortgage (for land) or hypothecation
(for movable assets). The borrower has a year to finalize the mortgage; otherwise, they must
pay an extra fee.
Step 9: Monitoring
The project is regularly monitored during both the implementation and operational stages.
This includes:
The key focus during monitoring is ensuring timely repayment of the loan.
Appraisal Techniques
Here are some key techniques used to evaluate the financial viability of a project:
Venture capital is long-term funding given to high-risk, high-potential growth projects, often
in new technologies.
Definition
A venture capital company is one that partners with an entrepreneur, sharing the risks and
rewards of a business venture. They usually provide funding in exchange for ownership in the
company.
It can be equity (ownership), convertible debt (loan that becomes shares), or long-
term loans.
VC is used in startups or growing businesses that have big potential but are risky.
VC is usually for new tech or unique ideas — not for trading, research, or finance
services.
If the business succeeds, they profit; if it fails, they lose money too.
They don’t just give money — they guide and manage to help the business grow.
Once the business becomes valuable, VCs sell their shares — either to the owner or
in the open market.
VC is not easy to cash out. It’s a long-term and not quickly sellable investment.
1. Seed Stage (Seed Finance): Venture capitalists provide initial funds to turn an idea
into a business. This is the most risky phase, as it involves the concept stage.
2. Startup Stage (Start-up Finance): Funding is provided to get the business up and
running, like manufacturing and product development.
3. Fledgling Stage (Additional Finance): The business is starting to grow but needs
more money for marketing and operations.
4. Establishment Stage (Establishment Finance): The business is established and
expanding rapidly. This stage involves larger financing to support growth and
stability. Once the business is stable, the investor typically sells their stake.
1. Equity Financing: The venture capitalist buys shares in the company in exchange for
money.
2. Conditional Loan: A loan is given, and repayment is made through royalty payments
(a percentage of sales).
3. Income Note: A mix of a loan and royalty system. The company pays low interest
and royalty on sales.
4. Participating Debentures: A loan with interest that changes based on the company's
growth stage, starting with no interest and increasing as the business expands.
1. Since the investors own part of the business, the original founder loses some control.
2. Getting venture capital is a lengthy and complicated process.
3. The business may not always succeed, and VC is risky.
4. The returns from VC might take a long time to materialize.