Abstract

This study developed and evaluated a competency-based training curriculum designed to strengthen entrepreneurial capabilities among bio-industry entrepreneurs in Thailand. The curriculum was structured around national bioeconomy policies under the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) Model and incorporated essential entrepreneurial competency domains, including business modelling, value creation, branding and integrated marketing communication (IMC), networking, regulatory literacy, and product development. A mixed-methods approach was employed with 30 SME participants in a pilot implementation. Instructional activities consisted of guided workshops, case analyses, hands-on business model canvas exercises, branding and storytelling labs, and peer-learning sessions, all aligned with competency-based learning outcomes. Data were collected through pre- and post-tests, skills assessments, a validated entrepreneurial competency instrument, satisfaction surveys, and a structured economic-impact questionnaire. Results showed statistically significant improvement in entrepreneurial knowledge, substantial gains in business planning, marketing, and interpersonal skills, and high post-training competency scores across all domains. Participants also reported perceived economic benefits—including cost reduction, increased product value, expanded market channels, and new business plans—though these outcomes were self-reported and should be interpreted with caution. The findings demonstrate that a structured, context-specific competency-based training model can effectively support entrepreneurial development in emerging bio-industry sectors and offer implications for scaling similar programs across Thailand’s broader bioeconomy.

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