ABSTRACT An innovatory project-based programme is described which has been developed and refined over a period of 5 years. The programme aims to improve the personal and business skills of students during the second year of one particular undergraduate course at the University of Salford. The vehicle used to develop these skills is a business start-up simulation in which students work in teams. They take part in a range of activities which are related to their business venture. The paper describes the programme objective and methodology, team selection, choice of business venture, the support which is provided, the activities which are involved and assessment. It discusses the numerous modifications that have been made in the light of experience and reflects on a number of issues that arise before going on to consider programme evaluation and transferability. The paper concludes with an examination of programme outcomes.