Learning Outcomes:
In this session, participants will learn how to develop a Sustainable Business Model Canvas and gain a framework for creating effective and sustainable business models;
Duration:
The session lasts 3 hours and 15 minutes, blending presentations, hands-on activities, and reflection
Materials needed:
PPT Presentation
Laptop
mobile device
projector/external screen
pens
papers
- mobile device (tablet, phone or laptop) for the participants for the practical exercise
- online evaluation form
Preparation
To ensure a smooth and engaging session, the trainer begins by preparing a presentation on “Social Entrepreneurship and the Business Model Canva.” This presentation will serve as a foundational element, guiding participants through the core concepts and practical applications of social entrepreneurship within the framework of the Business Model Canvas.
Next, the trainer carefully prepares the room, arranging the space to be welcoming and conducive to interactive learning. This setup includes organizing seating, ensuring necessary materials are available, and checking any equipment needed for the presentation.
Additionally, the trainer prepares an online evaluation form for participants to complete after the activity. This form is designed to gather valuable feedback on the session, allowing for future improvements and ensuring that the training meets the needs and expectations of all participants.
Description
This activity of the module builds directly upon the activity ”Exploring social entrepreneurship and business model-Think-Pair-Share”, ensuring a smooth transition into the new material by linking the group’s earlier discussions with the content that will be covered.
The session kicks off with the trainer presenting the learning objectives (LOs) and the agenda for the day, providing participants with a clear overview of what to expect.
The first segment is a concise 10-minute (recommended time) presentation on social entrepreneurship. The trainer begins by defining what a social entrepreneur is and then delves into the characteristics that distinguish social entrepreneurs from others. Moving forward, the discussion highlights the impact of social entrepreneurs on the social sector, explaining how they drive significant changes within their communities. This is followed by a detailed look at what social entrepreneurship entails and how it bridges theory with practical, lasting impact.
Transitioning to the next topic, the trainer spends another 10 minutes on the Business Model Canva (recommended time). The presentation starts with an explanation of what a business plan is, followed by a definition of the Business Model Canvas and an overview of its template. This part of the session is crucial for setting up the practical exercise, as it provides participants with the tools they will need.
The trainer then introduces the practical exercise, which is explained in 5 minutes. Participants are divided into groups of four and tasked with developing a circular startup or business idea.
Each group will present their concept to an audience, played by the trainer in the role of an investor looking to fund innovative startups.
For their presentations, groups are required to include several elements:
- the logo of their startup or business,
- a mission and vision statement,
- details about their main products or services,
- an outline of their circular business approach,
- a completed Business Model Canvas template.
The practical exercise itself spans 3 hours and 15 minutes, with 2 hours and 45 minutes dedicated to group work and 30 minutes for presentations. During this time, the trainer keeps the Business Model Canvas template displayed on the projector for reference and offers support to participants, answering questions and clarifying any uncertainties. The trainer also monitors group dynamics to ensure active participation from all members.
During the presentation phase, the trainer adopts the role of the investor, evaluating each group’s pitch. After each presentation, the trainer provides constructive feedback on both the circular business approach and the completed Business Model Canvas. At the end of all presentations, the trainer selects one startup to fund and explains the reasons behind the decision, offering insights that can help all participants refine their ideas and approaches.
The session will conclude with a 15-20 minutes debriefing, see below the details.
Debriefing
After the practical exercise, the session transitions into a learning check and debriefing phase.
Presentation and Debriefing
As part of the learning check, participants will present the outcomes of their practical exercise. During this time, the trainer will guide the discussion by asking questions (see below) to summarize the key takeaways from both the theoretical presentations and the hands-on activity.
Debriefing Questions:
To facilitate reflection, the trainer will pose the following questions to the group:
- How does social entrepreneurship differ from traditional entrepreneurship, based on the presentation?
- What key impacts do social entrepreneurs have on the social sector, and why are these significant?
- What are the main components of the Business Model Canvas, and why is each component important?
- How did developing a circular startup or business during the practical exercise help you apply the concepts learned in the theoretical presentations?
- What challenges did you face while creating your circular business model, and how did you address them?
- What feedback did you receive during the presentation phase, and how will it influence your understanding of the circular business approach?
- How did presenting your business model to the “investor” affect your perspective on the practical application of the Business Model Canvas?
Q&A and Group Discussion
The session will then move into a Q&A and group discussion, providing an opportunity for participants to engage in a deeper conversation about the exercise and the activity as a whole. This discussion allows for the exchange of ideas, clarification of any uncertainties, and further exploration of the topics covered.To facilitate reflection, the trainer will pose the following questions to the group:
- How did the theoretical content and practical exercise complement each other in helping you grasp the concepts of social entrepreneurship and circular business models?
- What are the key takeaways from both the theoretical presentations and the hands-on activity that you plan to apply in your future projects or business endeavors?
- Who else had the same experience? What surprised you?
- What do you know now that you didn’t know before?
- What adjective would you use to define this experience?
- Describe what you experienced during this experience.
Evaluation and Feedback Collection
Participants will be asked to complete an online evaluation form, providing valuable feedback on the session. This feedback will help the trainer assess the effectiveness of the activity and identify areas for improvement.
Tips
The trainer must possess a deep and thorough understanding of the topic at hand. This expertise forms the foundation upon which the training is built, ensuring that the content delivered is both accurate and insightful.
The trainer should begin promptly, introducing themselves to the participants with a warm and welcoming demeanour. This initial introduction sets the tone for the session and establishes a rapport with the attendees.
Following this, the trainer must clearly outline the objectives and agenda of the session, providing a roadmap for what participants can expect to learn and accomplish.
Engagement is crucial throughout the session. The trainer should actively involve participants through thoughtful questions and interactive discussions. This approach helps maintain interest and encourages deeper understanding by prompting participants to reflect on and discuss the material being presented.
Ensuring that all participants are actively engaged and grasp each element of the training process is a fundamental responsibility of the trainer. It is not enough for the trainer to present the material; they must also verify that participants are following along and understanding the content.
Finally, the trainer will gather feedback to assess the effectiveness of the training session. This feedback is collected through online evaluation forms and a debriefing process. Analysing this feedback allows the trainer to refine their approach and improve future sessions, ensuring continuous enhancement of the training experience.
Offer more breaks if needed.
Throughout the session, the trainer will keep the Business Model Canvas template prominently displayed on the projector or screen, ensuring that all participants have a clear view of the handout. This visual reference will guide them as they work on their practical exercises.
Alternatively, the trainer will distribute the Business Model Canvas handout to participants digitally.
In line with the project’s green initiative, the trainer will encourage participants to use their mobile devices for note-taking and to complete the practical exercise, minimizing the use of paper. However, if any participant prefers to use traditional methods, pens and paper will be provided upon request.
Additionally, participants are encouraged to use recycled paper for any handwritten notes. This approach not only supports the project’s commitment to sustainability but also fosters environmentally friendly practices among all participants.
If participants need more time to complete their presentations on circular startups, they can present them the next day or online.
Handouts and resources
Business Model Canva Handout
Question to consider when you complete a business model Canva
Video of What is social entrepreneurship?
Video of Entrepreneurs can change the world – Grasshopper
Introduction to social innovation
Circular Economy – an Innovative and Creative Production Model
Circular business design
The 9-step business model canva explained
Social entrepreneurship -definition, types, and examples
The trainer(s) can use these handouts for the session or create their own, as long as the same basic concepts are included (social entrepreneurship, business model Canva).
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