International Student Projects have a long and successful track record at the FHNW. Moreover, South America is expected to grow as an economy and there is a certain interest in the region expressed among students. All the above were promising conditions for the launch of a new International Student Project to South America and therefore the project team decided to approach the FHNW. Thanks to the great support of the involved parties the context of the upcoming live project could be used to conduct a feasibility study for a new International Student Project to South America.

The feasibility study evaluates the macroeconomic environment through a PESTEL analysis of each of the Mercosur member states. A SWOT analysis helps identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats associated to the region. Based on a stakeholder analysis, the interest of students, potential sponsors, governmental institutions and the FHNW in the project are examined through primary research. Moreover, a risk analysis is conducted to become aware of potential threats and develop appropriate measures for prevention.

In general, the original concept of ISPs could be adopted for the new target region. However, due to current and future challenges it is deemed necessary to adapt the model towards a more sustainable solution. A very high interest in the launch of a new ISP and the region of South America was expressed by the key stakeholders including students, the FHNW and governmental institutions. Representatives from governmental institutions such as the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs and from the FHNW including the School of Business expressed a positive attitude towards the project and are keen on making further contributions. Consequently, a high degree of participation and support can be expected for the project. Altogether, it can be concluded that the launch of a new ISP to South America is feasible as there is large interest in the project expressed by students and governmental institutions. Examined companies showed a rather low interest but still consider sponsoring the project because of the value in generates in terms of recruiting and networking. Moreover, the implementation would support the FHNWs general goal of intensifying international relations with South America.