The impacts of entrepreneurial start-up programmes: a dynamic learning perspective

Purpose This study responds to a gap in the literature by exploring how participation in a structured start-up programme impacts the business activities of entrepreneurs and their future skill needs in a post-training context. This study applies the concept of dynamic learning as the theoretical framework. Design/methodology/approach This study presents key insights based on the experiences of six different cohorts of entrepreneurs (n = 120) who, for 18–24 months, participated in a structured start-up programme. Quantitative data were collected using pre- and post-training surveys. Latent class and logistic regression analyses grouped participants into distinct pre-intervention and post-intervention typologies. Findings The results indicate that there are distinct types of entrepreneurs at the beginning of a start-up programme and that there are different, distinct types of entrepreneurs at the end. Post-training entrepreneurial typologies are found to have discrete training needs, which have implications for the design and delivery of subsequent iterations and training courses. Originality/value This study highlights the necessity for varied and continuous entrepreneurial training. The measurement approach serves as a resource for other researchers attempting to profile entrepreneurs and examine the efficacy of entrepreneurial support systems and programmes. Typologies can be used to compare the perceptions and abilities of entrepreneurs in terms of their initial training needs, the benefit and impact of the training they receive, and their ongoing learning needs.