Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Scandinavian context

Project description

This course is a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical application and cultural engagement. It introduces students to innovation in Scandinavia and highlights the unique cultural, social and economic factors that contribute to the region’s success in fostering innovative startups. Students will explore the key elements that make Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark, a hotbed for entrepreneurial activities, including robust government policies, an emphasis on sustainability, and a collaborative business culture.

Throughout the week, students will engage in interactive sessions that emphasize the development of a proactive and resilient entrepreneurial mindset. Students will learn about the critical role of sustainability and social responsibility in modern business practices, particularly within the Scandinavian context. Through lectures and hands-on tasks, they will learn about socially responsible business models and visit one of the leading Danish companies to see these principles in action.

By the end of the course the students will participate in an entrepreneurial pitch competition. It will provide a platform for students to showcase their creativity and business understanding, but also get valuable feedback and insights from industry professionals.

Learning outcomes and competencies obtained from this course

• Comprehensive understanding of the Scandinavian approach to innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Insights into the cultural, social and economic factors that foster innovation in Scandinavia.
• Knowledge of various models for strategically managing product and concept development processes within a company.
• Understanding the theoretical foundations of a company’s innovation platform and creative processes.
• Understanding of relevant models for assessing growth and development opportunities.
• Ability to assess a company’s innovation capabilities.
• Capacity to collaborate effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Practical skills to develop and pitch innovative business ideas.

Objective and analytical output

The objective of this course is to deepen students’ interest in innovation and entrepreneurship while providing them with additional knowledge through exposure to a new cultural environment. This includes attending innovation-focused lectures at IBA and visiting companies in industries they might not typically have access to. The course will conclude with an entrepreneurial pitch competition, where students will prepare and present business plans and pitches for their startup ideas to a panel of experts, including successful entrepreneurs. These presentations will be critically evaluated based on creativity, feasibility, strategic planning and potential market impact. The experience aims to simulate the real-world process of pitching to investors, helping students build confidence and refine their presentation skills.

Virtual component

On 19 September the participants will meet for an 1,5-hour virtual session. The session will be in the format of a discussion on the topic: The Role of Culture in Shaping Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

The students are expected to prepare a max. 5 min. answer to the question ‘How do cultural attitudes towards risk-taking, collaboration and failure impact the entrepreneurial environment in your home country?’ If participants come from the same university, they are welcome to prepare their answer in groups.