Course overview - Sustainable Business Models: Guidance for Future Farmers
Description
Agri-food systems are among the most important human-environmental production systems that shape our society. Current research on global drivers of change unambiguously demonstrates the role of the food system in the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Strengthening the position of the farmer has been recognized as one of the key factors for the transition towards more sustainable food systems.
In this course, we will explain the current context, problems and opportunities of the agri-food value chain and more specifically the role of the farmer in this system. We clarify why it is of crucial importance to create a good business plan. We will also explain step-by-step how you can create a strategic plan for a farming business.
First, we will look at the values, norms and internal factors of a company, thereby identifying strengths and weaknesses. Next, we will dive into the external factors of the business by using the 5 forces of Porter and the PESTEL analysis. Once you know all the factors that define and influence a business, you can start with the creation of a strategy.
You will learn about market segmentation and you will be able to determine the target groups that fit with the created value propositions. Finally, you will look at the business model canvas and we will explain how the nine building blocks interact with each other and can be optimized.
We realize every farm is unique. There is not one receipt for a successful farm. Yet, we offer you a background, insight and inspiration that helps you to develop a robust, resilient and future-proof business model.
Prerequisites
None
Duration and Work Load
The course is an Self-paced course and will be available from until August 28, 2022.
The estimated workload per module is 4-6 hours and there are 5 modules and 1 exam module.
Learning Outcomes and Objectives
At the end of this course you will:
- Understand the struggles of the agri-food chain.
- Explain the importance and benefits of a good business plan.
- Understand the difference between management and entrepreneurship.
- Identify the 6 capitals of a farming business.
- Identify the local and global supporting environments of a farming business.
- Complete a SWOT analysis of a farming business.
- Develop a strategy based on the SWOT analysis by using Porter’s generic strategies.
- Identify the business’ value propositions in the value elements pyramid.
- Determine customer segments.
- Complete a value proposition canvas.
- Complete a Business Model Canvas.
Deadlines
All assessments need to be completed before the 29th of August 2022.
Grading
This course is graded per module, a final exam and a participation segment.
The module assignments of the course which contribute to your final mark can be found at the end of each module under ‘assignment for grading’. They are multiple-choice and check-box questions about the content per module. Please note that assignments for grading are only available in the verified track.
The final exam can be found in the last module under the unit 'final exam'.
Finally, a small part of the final score is gained through participation in the discussion forums.
The grading scheme for this MOOC is as follows:
- Module 1 - 5%
- Module 2 - 10%
- Module 3 - 10%
- Module 4 - 10%
- Module 5 - 15%
- Final exam - 45%
- Participation on discussion forums - 5%
The passing grade for the course is 60%.
Course Structure
The course consists of 5 modules and 1 exam module.
- Module 1: Introduction
- Module 2: Entrepreneurship
- Module 3: External factors
- Module 4: Value proposition and customer segmentation
- Module 5: Business Model Canvas (BMC)
- Module 6: Outro
Each module is structured in a similar way:
- An overview: a module and course diagram as well as a brief explanation of what the module contains
- Learning objectives: an overview of the objectives of the module
- Course videos: lectures on the different course subjects
- Case videos: a reflection of the course subjects on practical examples
- Knowledge checks: small quizzes where you can check whether you have processed this information well
- Discussion forums: forums where you can discuss certain topics with other participants
- Do It Yourself (DIY): an interactive PDF that helps you to use the theory to reflect on your own business or an imaginary business idea
- Question and remarks: an opportunity to share any questions or remarks about the module
- Assignment for grading: a quiz at the end of each module that contributes to your final grade. Please note that assignments for grading are only available in the verified track.