Young European entrepreneurs meet for second EUniWell Start-Up Exchange
A dynamic social entrepreneurship ecosystem
The second EUniWell Start-Up Exchange took place in the heart of Birmingham’s bustling entrepreneurial landscape, with talented entrepreneurs operating in thematic areas addressed by EUniWell invited to join the event. The theme of this year’s Start-Up Exchange, Health and Well-Being, was chosen to align with Birmingham Tech Week, which was happening simultaneously. The event kicked off with a warm welcome, compelling pitches from all represented start-ups, and a spirited icebreaker session. This set the stage for two days of collaboration and inspiration for the participants.
The morning session delved into entrepreneurial skills and business acumen with a Serious Game developed by Nantes Université. Young entrepreneurs honed their skills, reflecting on crucial aspects of start-up development, from market studies to crafting robust business plans and navigating the intricate world of funding.
“The Start-Up Exchange was a great opportunity to meet young entrepreneurs from all across Europe and exchange with them about our ways of working.” Maxime, Guardian start-up, Nantes Université.
As the afternoon unfolded, the programme continued with a networking event with the presence of John Cooke, University of Birmingham Entrepreneur in Residence, and the B-Enterprising team. The day culminated with the Tech Social Opening at Birmingham Tech Week, an event dedicated to celebrating and collaborating within the region’s vibrant tech sector.
Developing international business acumen
The EUniWell Start-Up Exchange is an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to gain international exposure and gather advice from European peers and mentors. It is also an occasion to encourage EUniWell start-ups to join their university incubators, and facilitate access to resources, coaches and mentors, and funding. As part of the programme, Professor Liam Grover from the University of Birmingham’s Chemical Engineering department presented the West Midlands Health Tech Innovation Accelerator, offering a glimpse into how companies can develop go-to-market strategies with new technologies, especially in health and medicine sectors.
During the afternoon session, participants exchanged ideas around the concept of digital future. Microsoft UK and the West Midlands Combined Authority orchestrated an enlightening Digital Road Mapping session, accompanied by a panel of tech business owners. The panellists, including Daniel Bridgewater (CEO at Buckt), Zephaniah Chukwudum (Microsoft UK), and Laolu Dada (COO at Niyo Group), shared their stories and insights, providing attendees with an inspiring blueprint for success.
The programme concluded with a Digital Skills Symposium, addressing the ever-widening digital skills gap and the challenges of tech recruitment. An opportunity for networking with start-ups and tech enthusiasts followed, fostering new connections.
The EUniWell Start-Up Exchange not only illustrated the present state of entrepreneurship but also provided tools and inspiration for aspiring business leaders to navigate the future.
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