University Research Highlights the Value of Tech Knowledge in Fostering Student Startups
A recent study from the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School has found that coding and digital skills play a crucial role in sparking entrepreneurial interest among students. The research, conducted in collaboration with POLIMI Graduate School of Management and Politecnico di Torino, underscores the need for universities to offer programs that blend technology with entrepreneurship, enabling students to thrive in today’s digital-driven economy.
Enhancing Entrepreneurial Intentions Through Digital Skills
The study explored the impact of coding and digital skills on students’ entrepreneurial goals and actions. Surveying over 2,600 university students, researchers found a strong positive correlation between digital skills and entrepreneurial intentions. Students equipped with coding and digital knowledge were significantly more likely to express interest in launching their own ventures, with some even in the process of starting or already managing their businesses. This finding highlights the broader impact that technology skills can have on fostering a future generation of entrepreneurs.
Assistant Professor Giuliano Sansone, who led the study, commented on the results: “Our research demonstrates that coding and digital skills not only boost entrepreneurial engagement but also encourage students to see the world of entrepreneurship as a realistic career path. Equipping students with these essential skills is critical for inspiring a mindset geared toward innovation and business creation.”
Bridging the Gap: Collaborative Curriculum Development
To leverage this link between digital skills and entrepreneurship, the study recommends stronger collaboration among computer science, digital technology, and business departments in higher education. Courses that incorporate elements of coding, app development, and digital analytics alongside traditional entrepreneurial content could prove highly beneficial in preparing students for the modern workforce.
Professor Sansone elaborates, “Universities should prioritize the development of comprehensive programs that allow students to experience both the technical and business aspects of startups. When students understand both the technology and the strategy behind digital enterprises, they are better equipped to navigate and succeed in a tech-oriented market.”
Mentorship as a Bridge to Industry Insight
The study also emphasizes the value of mentorship programs that pair students with experienced professionals from the tech industry. These mentors can provide guidance on practical technology applications, exposing students to real-world scenarios that enhance their entrepreneurial skill set. Such partnerships are particularly beneficial in giving students firsthand exposure to the demands and innovations driving today’s digital landscape.
University-industry collaborations, particularly those involving tech and digital companies, could facilitate opportunities for students to apply their coding knowledge within entrepreneurial contexts. Real-world experiences, supported by knowledgeable mentors, can be transformative in developing the necessary skills to launch and sustain a business.
Future Directions for Universities
The findings encourage universities to support coding and digital education as a key component of entrepreneurial studies. Introducing courses that blend technical knowledge with business strategy can enhance students’ confidence in exploring entrepreneurial pursuits. These initiatives could expand beyond the business school, extending digital entrepreneurship training to a variety of disciplines, from engineering to the humanities.
Published in the IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management, this research offers insights that can shape academic programs and support the development of a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs. By equipping students with the skills to succeed in both digital and business spheres, universities can inspire more students to pursue entrepreneurship as a viable career path.
