The structure of the Virtual Incubator as well as the materials prepared to respond to stakeholders’ real needs and recommendations were examined at an earlier stage of the project. More specifically, we addressed their needs and incorporated their recommendations during the design of the structure of our material and of the Virtual Incubation Programme. 

One of the main challenges indicated by educators and students is schedule. To cover this need many of the tasks in the Virtual Incubation Programme will be self-paced. Another relevant challenge indicated by our analysis is generating interest and maintaining focus among participants. To approach this, we decided to create engaging and interactive content. Hence, we will incorporate a mix of video lectures, case studies, real-life examples, and quizzes with immediate feedback to keep participants interested and involved. Educators mentioned that the lack of entrepreneurial thinking is one challenge that they frequently face. To infuse more entrepreneurial elements the virtual incubation programme will be focused on the practical application of business ideas. Participants will work on their own business ideas and develop solutions to real-world problems with the help of experienced educators and entrepreneurs. Last but not least, to cover the challenge related to the lack of different business topics, the Virtual Incubation Programme will provide wide knowledge related to all aspects of creating and managing the company.

To offer a holistic incubation experience the developed material covers all stages of the digital entrepreneurship process from innovation and business model development to kick-start the entrepreneurial journey. The virtual incubator will cover topics like:

• discover digital tools for new venture creation
• get agile and take advantage of the deployment of virtual transnational teams
• utilize ICT to boost creativity and digital business models
• open innovation – collaborate with your local innovation ecosystem
• utilize digital platforms for extroversion and digital synergies
• Create your own start up
• Technical aspects linked with the digital necessary networking tools, as well as the MOOC production and the necessary digital implementation on the
• eplatform.

The main aim is to incubate students and graduates’ innovative digital and technological ideas in responding to and dealing with the post-COVID-19-crisis era and kick-start new entrepreneurial journeys. 

In more detail, the aims of the materials created for the virtual incubation program are:

Concept Development – The program aims to provide participants with support and guidance in generating innovative ideas that leverage digital and technological solutions to address challenges and opportunities arising from the post-COVID-19 era. Participants will be encouraged to explore new business models, products, or services that have the potential to create positive impacts in the current landscape.

Business Planning and Validation – The program aims to assist participants in developing comprehensive business plans for their innovative ideas. This includes conducting market research, analyzing target customers and competitors, and validating the viability and scalability of their concepts. Participants will receive guidance on refining their value propositions, identifying market niches, and crafting sustainable business strategies.

Technological Enablement – Recognizing the importance of technology in today’s business landscape, the program aims to equip participants with the necessary technological skills and knowledge. This includes guiding and leveraging emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things, or data analytics, to develop and enhance their digital solutions. Participants will have access to technical resources and mentorship to help them navigate the technological aspects of their ventures.

Mentorship and Guidance – The program aims to provide participants with mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, educators, and subject matter specialists. Mentors will offer guidance on various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business development, marketing strategies, financial management, and legal considerations. This personalized support will help participants refine their ideas, make informed decisions, and overcome challenges during their entrepreneurial journeys.

We specifically target the following groups:

• Graduate students, who wish to acquire additional competencies before getting their diploma and entering the job market.
• Late-young professionals (in their 30ies), who wish to practice the incubation of their own business before they try it “full speed”.

The course contains a 5-day intensive Virtual Incubation Programme. The first 3 days will be devoted to training on the module contents divided into 6 modules in an intensive programme of 8 hours per day. During this time, students and graduates would focus on completing 6 modules filled with theoretical knowledge, practical cases, quizzes, and videos. The last 2 days would be focused on consultations with experts, and mentors and preparing their business ideas.