SETU is taking part in a national HEA-funded project to embed sustainability into entrepreneurship education.
The project focuses on integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into teaching and learning, providing students and staff with practical tools, simulations, digital badges, hackathons, and masterclasses to foster sustainable and innovative approaches to business and societal challenges.
The initiative also aims to build a collaborative national network of universities committed to embedding SDG-focused thinking into entrepreneurship education across Ireland.
SETU is working in partnership with University College Cork (UCC), Munster Technological University (MTU), Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) to deliver this project.
Project Activities and Opportunities
This project is delivered through four key strands, offering a range of practical and accessible opportunities for students and staff.
Coffee Shop Simulation Game
Students work in groups to set up and manage a virtual coffee shop business, aiming to operate in the most profitable way, aligned with the 17 United Nations SDGs. SETU has 100 licenses available for this simulation.
This game is ideally delivered in class or as a group activity over a three to four-week period, with sessions lasting approximately one to two hours. Training can be provided for staff, or sessions can be run by trained facilitators.
For lecturers interested in their students participating, please contact Jane Foster, at [email protected] for more information.
Staff and Student Digital Badges in SDG Entrepreneurship
A free, online, validated digital badge in SDG entrepreneurship is available for both staff and students.
- For staff, the badge encourages learning about and embracing SDG-driven entrepreneurship culture, embedding it into the curriculum and understanding the role it can play in addressing societal and business challenges as a foundation for the future. Learn more here.
- There is a separate course for students that encourages learning about and embracing SDG-driven entrepreneurship culture and its impact on societal and business challenges (details are available here).
SDG Student Hackathon
The SDG Student Hackathon offers students a unique opportunity in teams to develop sustainable solutions to societal challenges. Participants can come from any discipline, and no prior experience in business or entrepreneurship is required.
The SETU Hackathon will take place on Thursday 12 February 2026 (Online). The winning SETU team will progress to the national final on Friday 20 February 2026 (Hybrid), where teams will compete for prizes of up to €5,000.
Find out more and register to participate here.
Masterclasses in SDG Entrepreneurship
A series of online masterclasses in SDG Entrepreneurship are available for staff and students throughout the current term. These sessions provide additional insights and practical guidance on embedding sustainability into entrepreneurial thinking and practice.
For further information, please contact Jane Foster, [email protected]