Empowering Entrepreneurs: Infosys and Oxford Saïd Launch New Course for Business Leaders

Launch of the 'Springboard StartSmart Foundations for Entrepreneurs' Course

In a significant collaboration, Infosys, a global leader in digital services and consulting, has partnered with Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford to introduce an innovative course specifically designed for entrepreneurs and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). This initiative, named the 'Springboard StartSmart Foundations for Entrepreneurs' course, uses Infosys Springboard, a free digital learning platform, to cater to the educational needs of emerging business leaders. The course represents a crucial step in empowering entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to flourish in the dynamic and often unpredictable business landscape of today.

Addressing Entrepreneurial Challenges

According to statistics, approximately 60% of small businesses and start-ups in the UK encounter failures within their first three years. Recognizing this alarming trend, Manos Kapterian, the Chief Operating Officer at Oxford Saïd, emphasized the necessity of access to essential tools and mentorship as key ingredients for success. This new course aims to democratize the learning process, providing tailored content that meets varied needs across the entrepreneurial journey, from nascent founders to those contemplating their own business ventures.

Kapterian elaborated, "While the UK fosters a strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, it's critical that we equip these new business leaders with the foundational skills they need to succeed in their ventures and positively impact their communities. This collaboration with Infosys allows us to extend our world-class business education to a wider audience."

Combating the Digital Divide

Thirumala Arohi, Executive Vice President and Head of Education, Training, and Assessment at Infosys, shared the company’s commitment to leveraging technology and education to uplift communities. The collaboration with Oxford Saïd and the deployment of Infosys Springboard is aimed at bridging the digital divide while promoting equitable access to insights and resources necessary for developing future business leaders. Arohi remarked, "Creating a more just society involves equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with the digital tools and knowledge to succeed."

The course also focuses on the adoption of digital transformation and emerging technologies, such as AI tools, which are critical in today’s tech-driven environment. By ensuring participants are adept at applying fundamental business concepts, the initiative hopes to provide transformers rather than merely followers in the business world.

A Proven Track Record

Infosys and its ongoing projects underscore the firm’s dedication to this mission. Since the inception of multiple programs aimed at enhancing digital proficiency in the UK in 2021, more than 50,000 users have engaged with over 10,000 courses available on the Infosys Springboard platform. This demonstrates the viability and significant impact of previous efforts and sets a promising foundation for the new course.

Preparing for the Future

With innovation at the forefront of the UK's economic strategy, this partnership represents a timely response to the need for better support for entrepreneurs. By equipping them with sustainable skills and significant knowledge bases, the initiative not only fosters individual success but also propels community enhancement and economic growth across the UK.

The newly launched course is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Infosys and Oxford Saïd, aiming to remodel the landscape of business education and accelerate growth in a competitive global arena. For aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to navigate complex business challenges, this course promises to be an invaluable resource that will equip them to rise to the occasion and lead effectively.

In conclusion, as more individuals embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, the role of educational institutions and corporate partnerships is increasingly crucial in providing the necessary framework for their success. Through the collective expertise of Infosys and Oxford Saïd, the 'Springboard StartSmart Foundations for Entrepreneurs' course emerges as a strategic endeavor towards nurturing the next generation of innovative business leaders.