EMPOWERING START-UPS THROUGH EDUCATION: A FRAMEWORK FOR SUCCESS

Abstract

Entrepreneurship plays a vital role in driving economic growth, innovation,
and job creation, yet many start-ups fail due to a lack of essential knowledge and
skills. This study explores EduPower, a concept that highlights the transformative
role of education in empowering entrepreneurs for success. By examining multiple
educational pathways—including formal education (business degrees, university
incubators), informal learning (online courses, mentorship), and experiential training
(case studies, business simulations, accelerator programs)—the research underscores
how education equips start-up founders with critical competencies in business
strategy, financial literacy, leadership, and innovation. A structured framework for
start-up empowerment is proposed, integrating the roles of educational institutions,
government policies, and private sector initiatives to enhance entrepreneurial
learning. Case studies of successful start-ups such as Dropbox, Paytm, Warby Parker,
and Nubank illustrate the tangible impact of education on business growth.
Additionally, the study evaluates the contributions of incubators and accelerators in
providing mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities. While challenges such
as limited access to training, gaps between academia and industry needs, and
resource constraints in incubators persist, opportunities for improvement include the
expansion of digital learning platforms, public-private partnerships, and AI-driven
mentorship. Ultimately, this study emphasizes the crucial role of education in
fostering resilient, innovative entrepreneurs and strengthening the global start-up
ecosystem.