The canvas model is an enhanced version of the Lean Business Model, it builds a business enterprise from 9 components that summarise briefly and concisely the aspects of the project’s operation and strategy. As the name suggests, it is a model designed to represent complex real-world relationships in a simple, understandable way.

Advantages of the Business Model Canvas compared to other models

• it can be created quickly
• but can be extended in terms of content at any time
• it is flexible
• its simplicity and flexibility make it a popular choice for start-ups
• can even be used for non-profit initiatives

This model was also chosen because it can be used for non-profit initiatives. Participants’ ideas are likely to include a programme that is not specifically for profit, but for community purposes.

Training exercise: Participants form working groups to work together on their own ideas. Participants who wish to work together can also form a group. Groups of at least 3 but no more than 5 people may work together. Their task is to create three elements of a model based on the chosen idea:

• Define the relationship between the value proposition and the customer – Here they are looking for the answer to what value or product they are giving to the potential customer or target group.

• They plan the channels through which they will be able to connect them – The channel is responsible for how the customer will first interact with the product or service. And the customer connection is partly responsible for how the value will be delivered to them again and again.

• This will enable them to plan the source and frequency of access to the customer’s money as a result of value creation.