Since 1989, the Internet has progressed from read-only sites to the ultra-intelligent, open linked environment of today. Through everyday activities, Web 4.0. provides a connection between humans and machines to create interactive data for the new, symbiotic Internet. With the use of intelligent data, virtual realities are becoming more and more common.

Bringing training and educational resources to learners in formats and on learning platforms where they are most comfortable has always been an issue for VET providers. In the current ‘socially distant’ COVID-19 reality, harnessing the power of digital technologies to bring tutors and learners together is essential.

eSMART will design and produce a bespoke, targeted entrepreneurship curriculum for young digital natives embarking on a career in the CCI sector as Web 4.0 entrepreneurs. The consortium will use a combination of interactive infographics and EduZines to present the curriculum to potential learners. A comprehensive suite of investment readiness learning materials will be developed, specifically addressing Web 4.0 entrepreneurs that deal with a wide range of business issues that are fundamental to attracting loan or equity finance for fledgling businesses. The eSMART project is committed to encouraging debate between VET tutors, learners and business.

The EntreComp Framework will be used as a benchmark for developing the curriculum, with all 15 competences in the framework addressed. eSMART will also provide essential in-service training for VET tutors to ensure that they are knowledgeable about the symbiotic Internet and its potential for new business start-ups. In addition, it will build their pedagogic and digital skills to help them harness the potential of online learning to deliver a high-quality VET service in the current COVID-19 context, where traditional institution based provision is no longer viable.

(1) present the creative entrepreneur and their management team – business management systems; strategic planning; financial management; marketing;

(2) present the investment opportunity – how to effectively sell yourself and your product; understanding your product in the marketplace; alleviating investor/financier fears and concerns;

(3) show that a relevant business model exists – routes to the market; estimating returns and revenues; vulnerability to competition and market change;

(4) present the scalability of the creative product or idea and a true market valuation – market intelligence; competitive advantage; competitor analysis;

(5) protect your intellectual property – understanding intellectual property; ownership of intellectual property; control of intellectual property assets.