HSUP Kicks Off: The First Kick-off Event Has Wrapped

Fifty students, a packed room, and no shortage of fresh ideas – that’s how this year’s first HSUP kick-off event kicked off. If anyone was still unsure whether starting a startup was worth it, this afternoon cleared up any doubts.

The event was led by Dóra Egri, HSUP ambassador at Óbuda University, who doesn’t just know the program in theory – she completed the HSUP course herself two years ago. Dóra walked students through how the two semesters are structured, what to expect and when, and shared her own experience along the way. She talked about the startup she founded back then: the early struggles, the dead ends, and the successes she’s since achieved in the business world.

Of course, theory wasn’t the only thing on the agenda. During the interactive part of the event, students worked in teams to brainstorm solutions to everyday problems they face. After a quick pitch, each team validated their idea by getting feedback from the other participants – meaning they got a firsthand taste of what it’s like when outsiders weigh in on a freshly formed concept. This situational exercise brought them even closer to understanding how early-stage startups really work.

The kick-off was just the beginning of the semester – and the next steps aren’t far off. The HSUP platform launches on October 1st, where you’ll be able to learn the key theoretical knowledge through online materials and tests, at your own pace. On top of that, a monthly HSUP workshop will help students ask experts questions in practice and get real-time feedback on their own ideas.

The Innovation Office also wants to support students with mentors and a coworking space, so that as many successful projects as possible come out of the semester – and the academic year.