Embarking on a transformative journey, I had the honour of being commissioned to design and deliver the “Stronger and Wiser 2 Day Bootcamp” for the EIT Climate KIC in the historic city of Gyor, Hungary. This was more than a speaking engagement; it was a masterclass in real-world innovation, hosted by EIT Climate KIC, the cradle of climate change technology incubation supported by the European Government.
Nestled within the venerable walls of the Széchenyi István University in Gyor, we gathered a select group of Europe’s most promising entrepreneurs. Their brilliance shone through a spectrum of fields: from Mobility and Energy Efficiency to Renewable Energy, and beyond. Their shared vision? To redefine the ecological footprint of our daily lives, with solutions like compostable packaging and sustainable alternatives to single-use water bottles.
Our goal was audacious yet clear: help forge business models and strategies robust enough to navigate the windy seas of the commercialization process. The agenda was meticulously crafted to enhance, not just align with, their prior experiences from various accelerator programs. We confronted the ‘irrational world view’ head-on, acknowledging that beyond the office walls, uncertainty reigns, promises falter, and sometimes, inventions don’t ignite the market as anticipated.
However, our workshops didn’t aim to disillusion; instead, they served as a reality check, equipping these visionaries with practical tools to reinforce their resilience and strategic thinking. It was about grounding dreams, enabling them to unfold their wings and soar towards their full potential.
Gyor, with its enchanting streets and welcoming spirit, proved to be a catalyst for inspiration. The feedback was unequivocal – our Masterclass was among the highest-rated, a testament to the unique and powerful support extended to these bright minds.
The ripple effect was immediate. The course was re-commissioned by EIT Climate KIC, spanning across Berlin to the virtual realm amidst the pandemic. These engagements were not just about sharing knowledge and experience; they were about spreading the entrepreneurial spirit across borders to build resilience.
Working with EIT Climate KIC didn’t just broaden my horizons; it sowed the seeds of a future career as business speaker. The ‘travel bug’ was indeed infectious, and the success of our collaborative efforts underscored the value of the business models we honed together.
This inaugural course was merely the beginning. It sparked a series of immersive experiences, from remote webinars to on-site workshops, stretching from the UK to the far reaches of Europe and beyond.
The journey continues, and with each new session, we’re not just educating – we’re crafting a community of leaders poised to redefine the future.
