KDDC 2EN13 - Business models, strategy and financing of successful digital start ups

Digital start ups have become a major source of growth and innovation. The objective of the course is to familiarize students with the concepts and buzzwords that are specific to this universe. It will investigate the technological building blocks of the digital transformation (i.e web 3.0, AI) and the enablers that allow start ups to use the tech (i.e cloud and API’s). We will then turn to the five major start up business models : software as a service , commerce platforms , targeted advertising ans social networks, Web 3.0 and deep tech. For each of these business models we will analyze the strategic underpinnings of value creation and the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) used by professionals to track and measure performance. We will then analyze the financing of innovative companies by venture capital and conclude with the specific regulatory environment of tech and its challenges.

Curiosity about technology is a prerequisite but no specific tech background is required, the first two sessions of the course will cover the basics of digital tech. An understanding of corporate finance and strategy at undergraduate level is required.

Grading will be based on an oral presentation and a written test. The written test will be 15 short questions covering concepts and buzzwords specific to the start-up economy that will have been explained and discussed in class.

Students will have the choice between reading one of three books : Swipe to Unlock by Neil Mehta et al., Venture capital strategy by Patrick Vernon or Power Law by Steven Mallaby.

The course will draw extensively on publications by leading strategy consultants and investment banks providing the most up to date and cutting edge analysis on these rapidly changing trends. Students will be required to read the material relevant to their oral presentation. They will also be strongly encouraged to listen the Hard Fork, a New York times podcast.