There is one assessment for this module. The assignment consists of a formative (draft) and a summative (final) element. The formative task is there to help you complete the summative assessment task successfully. The formative process is important because it will help you address the task more fully and therefore contributes to your learning and understanding of the challenges facing SMEs and help you develop your business development & planning skills in relation to SMEs. You will be required to undertake a detailed evaluation of an existing SME and then design and growth/development strategy for the business. You will present your findings in a report and make clear and costed recommendations Students will need to research a small, or medium sized business. You should try to determine the following during the research: • The nature of the entrepreneur behind the venture. • The SME start-up processes. • The business concept and any sources of competitive advantage • The current level of demand and the competitive environment • The growth and development of the business to date • The challenges of managing and running the business • The SMEs current growth and development strategy • Any government support measures that may be available to help the business overcome the challenges faced • The extent to which, if any, the business has considered social or sustainability goals and whether there is opportunity here for the business
