37394 - Firm Laboratory

Academic Year 2016/2017

  • Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Business Administration (cod. 0897)

Learning outcomes

The purpose of this course is to explore the dynamics of Corporate Venturing, the process by which firms invest in, develop, launch and sustain new businesses.  Building on the concepts covered in

Business Venturing, we will examine Entrepreneurship from a corporate perspective sometimes referred to as Intrapreneurship. Various channels for innovation and renewal within corporate settings will be explored.  Through examples of best practice and benchmarking companies and industries, studies will focus on the requirements for creating and managing new ventures and significant new business opportunities within organizations.  In addition, we will examine how to integrate new businesses into existing corporate structures or change them should it be required.  The course will facilitate eventual integration into corporate venture environments should it be desired or reversely provide a deeper understanding of their function should for those who want to partner with them from within an organisation or as an entrepreneurial entity. 

Course contents

The emphasis in this course is on understanding various aspects of past, present and future approaches to Corporate Venturing.  Both academic research and company testimonials will serve as catalysts to instil an appreciation of the key concepts as they relate to technology management, entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing as well as organizational behaviour.

Readings/Bibliography

·         Reading package provided by the instructor

·         Case study package

Teaching tools

The class will be interactive and class preparation and participation is essential.  Participation will be required in discussions, guest lectures, and project work.  The following elements will be included:

 

-          Lectures by instructor

-          Guest lectures by industry and academic experts to introduce various aspects of corporate venturing across industry sectors

-          Case discussions and student case presentations

-          Analysis of academic research and its relevance to real world examples

-          Multi-media presentations including, movie, video and interview footage

-          Industry Interview

-          A progressive group project that will culminate in teams of 3-4 students presenting corporate venture strategy plans

Office hours

See the website of Caren Helene Weinberg