HackTheBusiness Bulgaria

Let’s HackTheBusiness in Bulgaria for a Sustainable Future

In the heart of Sofia (Bulgaria), Cleantech Bulgaria is hosting the final round of the ENTREPRENEDU HackTheBusiness Bulgaria, an entrepreneurial hackathon for students, young professionals, and early-stage startups. This transformative event is set to unfold on March 26th and 27th at the Innovation Forum “John Atanasoff” within Sofia Tech Park. This year’s topic promises to ignite the spark of innovation, shaping the future of sustainable business through eco-conscious solutions.

The final round: HackTheBusiness Bulgaria

HackTheBusiness Bulgaria is a golden opportunity for aspiring European entrepreneurs to step into the business world. The event invites participants to delve into the realms of sustainability and digitisation, addressing challenges from diverse sectors. This dynamic business ideation competition provides a space for wannabe entrepreneurs to harness their creativity, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and bring their innovative ideas to life.

All benefits of HackTheBusiness concept

Organised by the experienced ENTREPRENEDU team, there are a lot of benefits by participating in HackTheBusiness competitions!

Innovative ideation: Participants are encouraged to bring forward groundbreaking ideas that leverage digitalisation to foster sustainability. Whether it’s addressing climate change, promoting clean energy, or enhancing resource efficiency, the competition aims to inspire solutions that leave a positive impact on the planet.

Expert guidance: ENTREPRENEDU’s experts and mentors will be on hand to provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the competition. Teams will have the opportunity to refine their ideas, seek advice, and gain insights from experienced professionals in the field.

Business workshops: To enhance the participants’ entrepreneurial skills, a series of thematic workshops will be conducted, covering various aspects of business development. These sessions aim to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable entrepreneurship.

Pitch to international Jury: The climax of the event involves pitching innovative ideas to an international jury. This not only provides exposure for participants but also opens doors to potential investors, collaborators, and mentors who can propel their projects to new heights.

ENTREPRENEDU Mentoring & Coaching Programme: HackTheBusiness offers a full coaching and mentorship programme led by ENTREPRENEDU experts. Our team of mentors will provide guidance on various aspects of entrepreneurship, from fine-tuning your business model to navigating potential challenges. 

Networking opportunities: HackTheBusiness Bulgaria serves as a networking hub, connecting participants with industry leaders, fellow entrepreneurs, and potential collaborators. Building a robust professional network is crucial for future success, and this event provides the ideal environment for cultivating meaningful connections.

Professional growth: Participants stand to gain not only professionally but also in terms of personal growth. If you participate, HackTheBusiness competition in Bulgaria will provide you with professional experience that could level-up your business confidence.

Prizes and more: As a token of appreciation for their efforts, participants have the chance to win exciting prizes. These rewards not only acknowledge their innovative contributions but also serve as a testament to their dedication to creating a sustainable future through digitalisation.

Join the HackTheBusiness Bulgaria Info Webinar

Are you interested in participating in the ENTREPRENEDU HackTheBusiness Bulgaria but have some questions about the event? Join us for a one hour Webinar on the 7th of March at 3 PM CET to learn more about the event and have your questions answered by the organising team.

After a brief introduction to the ENTREPRENEDU Project and a presentation of HackTheBusiness Bulgaria event, you’ll have the opportunity to hear success stories from previous participants and local ecosystem players, as well as ask any questions you might have about the hackathon. The goal of the Webinar is to provide you with all the information you need to know before participating in the hackathon, and give you a chance to meet the organisers and other participants.

To register for the webinar, simply visit this link and fill out the registration form. Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to join the Webinar.

See you in Bulgaria!

Interested? Secure your spot here in this transformative competition until March 18, 2024, at 5 pm CET. Let’s HackTheBusiness in Bulgaria!

Cheers,
ENTREPRENEDU Team 

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They hacked the business in Greece: Meet the Winners

The second HackTheBusiness competition organised by the ENTREPRENEDU team was held in Greece, where emerging talents gathered to showcase their groundbreaking space-ideas. Here’s a quick recap!

About HackTheBusiness Greece

HackTheBusiness Greece is an entrepreneurship challenge for young minds to learn, explore and discover the secrets of Space! The challenge was to pitch an innovative business idea, with the aim of bringing a real revolution to the space sector in Greece.

The first phase of the event was organised from 3d to 5th of November 2023 at different Universities, across Greece: Democritus University of Thrace, National Technical University of Athens, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and University of Thessaly. Teams with most innovative ideas have received 2 weeks long mentoring and a paid ticket to the Finals.

The second phase of the competition – the Finals, took place in Athens, Greece on 25th of November 2023. In the finals, winners of the first phase of the competition pitched their innovative business ideas and competed for a place in the Mentoring & Coaching Programme delivered by ENTREPRENEDU project plus other valuable prizes.

Opening session

During the opening session, our teammates from Corallia as main organisers presented ENTREPRENEDU project and the whole team. Afterwards, we had a greatest pleasure of hosting Mr. Konstantinos Kyranakis, Deputy Minister of Digital Governance in Greece, who inspired us all with his speech about innovation and prosperity of young minds in Greece.

Moreover, our participants had an opportunity to hear more about space-related opportunities and industry from our sponsors and business representatives itself. At the end of the opening session, HackTheBusiness Greece team hosted space-entrepreneurs from Angely, Insigh.io and Caius startups to share their invaluable experiences and support our young participants at the start of their entrepreneurial journey.

12 groundbreaking pitches

Innovation, ambition and inspiration were in the air at Corallia premises in Athens, Greece as our participants presented their groundbreaking pitches! All participants showcased an incredible entrepreneurial spirit and a passion in the Finals of the HackTheBusiness Greece contest. The pressure was strong as each team had a limited time frame of 7 minutes to portray the vision and a mission behind their space-solutions. All of this, while the panel of ENTREPRENEDU judges and mentors provided them with valuable questions and constructive feedback. At the end of all presentations, 12 pitches were evaluated based on several criteria, including innovation, feasibility, market scalability, and social impact.

Watch the video to see all key moments! 🎥

Meet HackTheBusiness Greece Winners

After almost 3-weeks of hard work and having fun, four top-notch teams and their innovative ideas were chosen:

  • MICROSATLAB team,
  • EXKE team,
  • UNIWA ICE team and
  • GROUNDWATER team.

They hacked the business!

ENTREPRENEDU team wants to congratulate once again to all winning teams!

Indeed, HackTheBusiness events are the perfect opportunity for young individuals, researchers and startups to present their business ideas and get the support they need by winning the ticket to the ENTREPRENEDU Coaching and Mentoring programme!

Interesting in hacking the business with us? Stay tuned!
Next HackTheBusiness adventure is just around the corner. 🙂

ENTREPRENEDU Team

Blog #4

How to Build a Winning Team at the HackTheBusiness contest: Strategies for Success

HackTheBusiness ideation contest is a business competition that provides an opportunity for wannabe entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and strategic mindset. However, winning this kind of competition is not merely about having a groundbreaking concept; it’s also about assembling a winning team. Your team is your backbone, the driving force that propels your idea to success. In this article, we’ll explore essential strategies to build a winning team during your HackTheBusiness adventure.

Identify individual strengths

At the HackTheBusiness competition, you can register as an individual or as a team. If you register as an individual and want to be a part of a team, don’t worry, you can do that directly in the competition. How? Begin by recognizing the unique strengths and skills of each potential team member. Assess their expertise, background, and experiences. Someone might excel in marketing, while another might have a knack for logistic planning. By understanding these strengths, you can choose your best match and allocate roles effectively, ensuring each team member contributes optimally to the project.

Foster effective communication

Open and transparent communication is the key to any successful team. Effective communication not only fosters teamwork but also enhances creativity and problem-solving abilities within the group. Therefore, each team member should be encouraged to voice their ideas, concerns, and feedback.

Encourage collaboration

Foster a collaborative environment where team members brainstorm ideas, challenge each other’s assumptions, and work together towards common goals. Collaboration promotes the exchange of diverse perspectives, leading to innovative solutions that can set your idea concept apart from the competition.

Emphasise Leadership and Delegation

Every successful team needs a leader who can guide the group toward the competition’s goals. A good leader listens to team members, provides clear directions, and inspires confidence. Additionally, learn the art of delegation. Assign tasks based on individual strengths and trust your team members to deliver exceptional results in their respective areas.

Create a positive Team Culture

Foster a positive and supportive team culture where members respect each other’s opinions and celebrate each other’s successes. A positive environment boosts morale, encourages creativity, and enhances productivity, creating an atmosphere where winning ideas can flourish. For example, you can together decide upon your team-name or a team-phrase.

Prepare for Challenges

At the HackTheBusiness competition your challenge is to bring an innovative idea from the space sector. But, during the competition per se, it is very important to anticipate other challenges that may arise during the competition. This could range from technical issues to disagreements within the team. Prepare contingency plans and encourage your team to brainstorm potential obstacles and devise solutions beforehand. A well-prepared team is more resilient and better equipped to handle unexpected challenges.

Continuous Learning and Adaptability

Everyday is a new day for learning. Don’t forget to do good research and stay updated with the latest trends and technologies related to your business idea. Adaptability is crucial in a competitive environment – teams that can pivot and adjust their strategies based on feedback and changing circumstances are more likely to succeed.

Don’t be afraid to ask Questions

ENTREPRENEDU mentors and experts will be present during the first phase of the competition, as well as the Finals. Don’t be afraid to ask Questions! Reach out to mentors and advisors who have experience in your industry or previous business competitions. Their insights and guidance can provide invaluable direction, helping your team refine its strategies and improve the overall quality of your idea.

Let’s HackTheBusiness!

In conclusion, building a winning team at a business competition requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, collaboration, and adaptability. By recognizing individual strengths, fostering a positive team culture, and preparing for challenges, your team can create a strong foundation for success. Remember, a cohesive and motivated team not only enhances your chances of winning but also enriches the overall experience of the competition, turning it into a transformative learning opportunity for everyone involved. 

Don’t miss to HackTheBusiness with us!

 

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The Role of Mentorship in Competitions: Why Having a Mentor Can Make All the Difference

Competitions have long been a platform for individuals to showcase their skills, talents, and innovations. Whether it’s in the realms of business, sports, or academia, participating in a competition can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. For young people, these competitions can be particularly daunting as they strive to prove themselves and achieve their goals. This is where mentorship plays a crucial role. In this article, we will explore the significance of mentorship in HackTheBusiness competition and why having a mentor can make all the difference.

Guidance and Expertise

Business competitions often require participants to navigate uncharted territory, whether it’s developing a business plan, perfecting a pitch, or honing a specific skill. A mentor brings invaluable guidance and expertise to the table. They can provide insights, share their experiences, and help you avoid common pitfalls. With their guidance, you can approach the competition with a well-informed strategy.

Building Confidence

Young participants may face self-doubt and anxiety when entering a competition. A mentor acts as a source of encouragement and support, helping you build the confidence needed to perform at your best. Their belief in your abilities can be a powerful motivator, pushing you to overcome challenges and excel in the competition.

Networking Opportunities

Mentors often have extensive networks in their respective fields. They can introduce you to key players, potential collaborators, and industry experts. These connections can open doors to opportunities that you might not have access to otherwise, such as partnerships, internships, or job offers.

Feedback and Improvement

Constructive feedback is essential for growth. Mentors provide honest and constructive criticism to help you improve. They can review your work, evaluate your performance, and offer suggestions for enhancement. This feedback loop is invaluable for refining your skills and strategies as you progress through the competition.

Mental Resilience

Competitions can be emotionally draining, especially when facing setbacks or tough competition. A mentor can offer emotional support and help you develop mental resilience. They’ve likely faced similar challenges in their own journeys and can provide perspective on how to stay focused, handle pressure, and bounce back from disappointments.

Customised Strategy

Every competition is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not work. A mentor can help you tailor your strategy to the specific competition you’re entering. They can identify your strengths and weaknesses, fine-tune your approach, and help you stand out among competitors.

Accountability

Having a mentor can hold you accountable for your goals and commitments. Knowing that someone is invested in your success can motivate you to stay on track and put in the necessary effort to excel in the competition. It’s a partnership that keeps you responsible and focused.

Long-Term Benefits

At your HackTheBusiness adventure, the mentorship relationship doesn’t end when the competition does. HackTheBusiness mentors will continue to support you even after the competition concludes through a business acceleration programme, where they will teach you how to turn your idea into a successful business. This ongoing relationship can lead to further opportunities for growth and collaboration.

Let HackTheBusiness mentors to guide you!

In the world of competitions, mentorship is the ace that can tip the scales in your favour. Having a mentor by your side provides guidance, builds confidence, offers networking opportunities, and fosters personal and professional growth. Their expertise and support can make all the difference in your journey to success, whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, or scholar.

So, what are you waiting for – HackTheBusiness with us and let our mentors help you unlock your full potential and achieve your goals.

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Unleash Your Entrepreneurial Potential: The Benefits of Attending a HackTheBusiness Competition

In today’s dynamic business landscape, young aspiring wannabe entrepreneurs are constantly seeking opportunities to develop their skills, network, and gain exposure. One remarkable avenue for achieving these goals is by participating in business competitions, such as HackTheBusiness competition in Greece. This competition will provide an opportunity for individuals and teams to pitch their business ideas, gain valuable experience, and unlock numerous benefits that can set them on the path to success. 

Refining Your Business Idea

HackTheBusiness competition is an excellent opportunity to refine your business concept. Through the rigorous application process, pitch presentations, and feedback from mentors, you’ll gain insights into the strengths and weaknesses of your idea. This invaluable feedback helps you adapt and improve your business plan, making it more viable and appealing to potential investors.

Mentorship and Guidance

HackTheBusiness offers a full coaching and mentorship programme led by ENTREPRENEDU experts. Our team of mentors will provide guidance on various aspects of entrepreneurship, from fine-tuning your business model to navigating potential challenges. Their expertise can be instrumental in shaping your entrepreneurial journey.

Networking Opportunities

Business competitions bring together like-minded individuals, including fellow competitors, judges, sponsors, and attendees. Building a strong network is crucial for any entrepreneur, and HackTheBusiness offers an ideal platform for connecting with potential partners, investors, and collaborators. You might even find co-founders who share your passion and vision.

Validation and Credibility

Participating in a prestigious business competition adds credibility to your venture. Winning or even reaching the finals demonstrates to potential investors and customers that your idea has merit and potential. This validation can be a game-changer when seeking funding or attracting early customers.

Prizes and Resources

HackTheBusiness competition offers a diverse range of prizes. Don’t forget that non-monetary prizes such as access to industry-specific resources and knowledge can be equally valuable in your entrepreneurial journey.

Learning from Failure

Not all participants in business competitions emerge as winners, but even if you don’t win, you gain valuable experience. Learning to handle rejection and setbacks is an essential part of entrepreneurship. The feedback received can help you pivot, rethink, and come back stronger in your next entrepreneurial endeavour.

Exposure and Publicity

Business competitions often garner media attention, providing an opportunity to showcase your idea to a broader audience. This exposure can attract potential customers, partners, and investors who may have otherwise never discovered your startup idea.

Inspiration and Motivation

Being surrounded by ambitious and innovative individuals can be incredibly inspiring. Hearing success stories, witnessing passionate pitches, and engaging with fellow participants can motivate you to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams with even greater determination.

Personal Growth

Participating in a business competition is a personal growth journey. It challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, develop public speaking and presentation skills, and enhance your problem-solving abilities. These skills are not only beneficial for your current venture but also for your future endeavours.

HackTheBusiness with us!

For young individuals aspiring to become entrepreneurs, attending a business competition can be a transformative experience. It offers the chance to refine ideas, gain mentorship, and expand your network. Moreover, the personal growth and motivation derived from such events can be instrumental in your entrepreneurial journey.

So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to unleash your entrepreneurial potential – HackTheBusiness with us and take the first step towards turning your dreams into reality.

Blog #2

The Top Emerging Technology Trends to Watch in the Space Sector

The space sector has always been a source of fascination for young people, and with each passing year, it becomes even more captivating thanks to emerging technology trends. From private space exploration to sustainable space travel, the possibilities seem boundless. In this article, we will explore the current trends in the space world, which might give you an idea for an innovative business solution interesting enough to HackTheBusiness in Greece.

Private Space Exploration 

Private companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic have taken centre stage in space exploration. These companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the space sector. SpaceX, for instance, has not only revolutionised satellite deployment but also aims to colonise Mars. Young people are particularly drawn to these endeavours due to their ambitious and visionary nature. We are interested to know… Would you live on Mars?

Space Tourism

No, space tourism is no longer a distant dream. Not so far in the future, it’s on the cusp of becoming a reality. Companies like Virgin Galactic and SpaceX are working on offering commercial trips to space, allowing ordinary people to experience the thrill of zero gravity and a view of Earth from space. Some of the Earthlings have already booked their ticket  for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Would you be interested in looking down to Earth from Space?

Satellite Mega-Constellations

One of the most transformative trends in the space sector is the deployment of satellite mega-constellations. Companies like SpaceX’s Starlink and OneWeb are launching thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit to provide global internet coverage. This technology not only connects remote regions but also opens up opportunities for innovative applications and services.

Sustainable Space Travel

As concerns about environmental sustainability grow, the space sector is not immune to these concerns. Emerging technologies are paving the way for more sustainable space travel, from reusable rocketry to the development of eco-friendly propulsion systems. Researchers are passionate about preserving Earth and are excited about space exploration that aligns with sustainability goals.

Artificial Intelligence and Automation

Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are playing a crucial role in advancing space exploration. AI helps analyse vast amounts of data from space missions, enabling scientists to make faster and more informed decisions. Automation is reducing human involvement in routine tasks, freeing up astronauts and scientists for more critical work. These technologies resonate with young tech-savvy individuals who appreciate their transformative potential.

3D Printing in Space

3D printing has found its way into the space sector, revolutionising the way spacecraft and equipment are built and repaired. Astronauts on the International Space Station are already using 3D printers to manufacture tools and replacement parts. This trend is fascinating to people who are intrigued by the idea of manufacturing in the unique environment of space. If you are an astronaut in space, what would you 3D print first?

Space-Based Renewable Energy

Space-based solar power generation is an emerging technology that could revolutionise our energy infrastructure. Solar panels in space can capture energy without atmospheric interference and transmit it back to Earth. This has the potential to provide a sustainable source of energy for our planet. 

HackTheBusiness for Space

To conclude, the space sector is undergoing a transformation, and emerging technologies are at the forefront of this revolution. As these technologies continue to advance, they promise to make space more accessible, sustainable, and exciting than ever before. For young enthusiasts like yourself, the future of space exploration has never looked brighter.

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Join the HackTheBusiness Webinar and learn about this not-to-miss event in Italy

Are you interested in participating in the HackTheBusiness hackathon but have some questions about the event? We’ve got you covered! Join us for a one hour Webinar on the 30th of May at 5 PM CET to learn more about the event and have your questions answered by the experts, as well as the organising team.

After a brief introduction to the ENTREPRENEDU Project and a presentation of HackTheBusiness Italy event, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you have about the hackathon, such as:

  • What are the eligibility criteria for participating in the hackathon?
  • How do I form a team for the hackathon?
  • What resources will be available for participants during the hackathon?
  • What kind of ideas are you looking for in the DeepTech industry?

Have any other questions on your mind? Great! We look forward to hearing from you!

The goal of the Webinar is to provide you with all the information you need to know before participating in the hackathon, and give you a chance to meet the organisers and other participants.

Registration 

To register for the webinar, simply visit this link and fill out the registration form. Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions on how to join the Webinar.

See you online!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn more about the HackTheBusiness hackathon and get your questions answered by the organising team. We look forward to seeing you there! 

#HackTheBusiness with us! 

ENTREPRENEDU HackTheBusiness Italy

HackTheBusiness – Unleashing the power of innovation for Young professionals and Startups

Italy is set to host an exciting and innovative event that aims to revolutionise the deeptech business landscape in the food, climate, and space sectors. HackTheBusiness, organised by ENTREPRENEDU, is a series of three hackathons designed to nurture entrepreneurial ecosystems for education and drive the creation of successful startups. This unique initiative is funded under the Horizon Europe program and brings together innovation stakeholders and educational entities from six different European countries, including Italy, Bulgaria, Greece, Belgium, Germany, and Ireland.

The primary objective of ENTREPRENEDU is to foster the growth of aspiring entrepreneurs and facilitate the development of new technological solutions. With HackTheBusiness – Italy, the organization aims to create an entrepreneurship challenge that allows young minds to learn, explore, and unlock the secrets of deeptech business in key sectors: food, climate, and space.

The HackTheBusiness competition in Italy is open to 30 teams comprising students, new startups, and researchers who are eager to acquire entrepreneurial skills and explore their potential. Scheduled to take place at We Make Future 2023 from 15th to 17th June, this event promises to be an exhilarating experience for participants.

During the hackathon, teams will be tasked with proposing deeptech business ideas that have the potential to revolutionise the food, climate, and space sectors. Innovation professionals and experts will be on hand to support the teams throughout the three days of intense competition, providing guidance and mentoring sessions tailored to each team’s needs.

A distinguished jury of experts will assess the ideas presented by the participating teams and select the winners. The victorious teams will not only gain access to valuable prizes but also earn the opportunity to enrol in dedicated mentoring courses. These courses will equip the top four ranked teams with the knowledge and skills necessary to transform their innovative ideas into successful businesses, particularly within the high-tech sectors.

Eleonora Lombardi, the ENTREPRENEDU Project Coordinator, expressed her confidence in the potential impact of  HackTheBusiness, stating, “We are confident that HackTheBusiness can be an opportunity to bring innovative ideas to life in the deeptech sector and that it represents the first step towards training a new generation of successful young entrepreneurs.”

The organisation of HackTheBusiness is a collaborative effort, with the involvement of several esteemed institutions and entities. These include Fondazione E. Amaldi, Corallia, Cleantech Bulgaria and F6S together with Luiss Guido Carli, Fraunhofer IPK, the European Business Angels Network and University of Thessaly. The collective expertise and support from these partners ensure the hackathon’s success and provide a platform for participants to thrive.

As HackTheBusiness prepares to kick off in Italy, the event stands as a beacon of inspiration and opportunity for young professionals, startups, and researchers. With its focus on deeptech solutions in the food, climate, and space sectors, this hackathon promises to pave the way for groundbreaking innovation and the emergence of a new generation of accomplished young entrepreneurs.

See you in Rimini! 

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Exciting news: ENTREPRENEDU project kicks off in Rome

ENTREPRENEDU is the initiative funded by the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) with an aim of enhancing entrepreneurial ecosystems for education. After long anticipation, our dream team held its kick-off meeting on the 30-31st of January and 1st of February 2023 in the Italian Space Agency, in Rome (Italy). 

The ENTREPRENEDU kick off meeting was successfully organised by our Project Coordinator – Fondazione E. Amaldi, and brought together different innovation stakeholders and educational entities from 6 different European countries:

ENTREPRENEDU team aims at enhancing the proliferation of new business models and entrepreneurial skills, directly involving 90 teams of youth (age 18 to 30 years old), in 3 different Hackathons. The ENTREPRENEDU initiative will support the 12 most viable and promising ideas and concepts from the early stages to the commercialization of their solutions. 

In that way, ENTREPRENEDU will enable a highly replicable model to provide business know-how for young Europeans, which will be validated in 3 educational institutions in Italy, Greece and Bulgaria, as well as a Venture Building Program (educational model) to be validated in 2 Universities and 1 VET (Vocational Education and Training) entity on 90 students.

The ENTREPRENEDU unique and interdisciplinary methodology will enhance entrepreneurial know-how and business skills and activities in less and moderate developed innovation regions, thus reinforcing their acceleration capacity and enabling youth to scale their concept to fully concrete solutions with strong market potential, subsequently enhancing the development and competitiveness of these regions.