An analysis of selected start-up initiatives

Abstract

Purpose: Any start-up needs to be supported to overcome the difficulties faced in its initial stages. Accordingly, this research study aims to assess the level of awareness that exists in relation to start-up initiatives. Additionally, this research study also aims to analyse whether the selected start-up initiatives analysed in this dissertation, including the B.Start scheme, Takeoff Incubation Centre and the YouStartIt accelerator programme, adequately meet start-up needs. Moreover, this dissertation also delves into perceptions shared by various beneficiaries of such start-up initiatives with the aim of determining the value-added and longterm impact that such selected initiatives are considered to have on start-ups. Finally, this dissertation will put forward recommendations made by beneficiaries, intended towards improving start-up initiatives. Design: This research study applies a qualitative research method. Accordingly, the objectives of the study were attained by virtue of twenty-two open-ended interviews conducted with beneficiaries of selected start-up initiatives, as well as institutions supporting start-ups by providing such initiatives. Findings: Although start-ups are considered as generally aware of certain initiatives, awareness is not considered to be sufficient and therefore, supporting institutions should extensively enhance their marketing strategies for the advertisement of start-up initiatives. Start-ups need to be supported in a variety of ways, including through financing and networking. Nonetheless, each start-up has different needs and hence, start-up initiatives are considered to fulfil start-up needs in varying degrees. In this respect, beneficiaries acknowledged that the initiatives do actually add-value to the relevant start-up with some interviewees even recognising the future benefits reaped from such initiatives. Contrarily, other interviewees feel that initiatives are only influential in the short run. Conclusion: Although certain start-up needs were met and initiatives were considered to add value-added thereto, beneficiaries still put forward several recommendations on the manner in which start-up initiatives may be improved. In this respect, one may note that the start-up initiatives analysed for the purposes of this research study are yielding overall positive results. Start-up initiatives are valuable for start-ups to endure the valley of death, as they assist in overcoming the difficulties that confront start-ups in the initial stages. Value: This research study may be considered relevant and valuable to start-ups particularly in order to gain an insight into the start-up initiatives that were discussed in this dissertation. Furthermore, this study may also be considered valuable to supporting institutions as they should take into consideration the recommendations made by beneficiaries dealing with the manner in which startup initiatives may be improved.