Promoting business creation through real world experience in entrepreneurship training programmes

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the effectiveness of entrepreneurship training programmes targeting post graduate students. The analysis is based on Project “Começar”, involving a Regional Development Agency in Alentejo (ADRAL), and three Higher Education institutions (Évora University, Beja Polytechnic and Portalegre Polytechnic). Two editions of the programme are closed scrutinized, including self-assessment made by developers of the programme. Results show a success rate of 41%, but additional benefits were also found. Key success factors are identified, and some recommendations are proposed.