Entrepreneurs learn secrets of success from industry experts
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As a university with deep respect for entrepreneurship, the NWU was a natural choice to host the annual Technology Entrepreneur Programme of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).
Fifty entrepreneurs attended the Technology Entrepreneur Programme, held at the Potchefstroom Campus from 11 to 15 April and co-hosted by the NWU, Vaal University of Technology and TIA.
The programme gives new entrepreneurs the opportunity to commercialise their ideas and business concepts into marketable products or ventures.
Specialists share experiences
The programme secured some of the best keynote speakers in the industry. The illustrious list of 28 speakers at this year’s workshop includes Casper de Villiers, chief executive officer of Click-a-tell, Pieter de Beer, CEO of Lodox Systems, and Jayshree Naidoo, head of incubation at Standard Bank.
The specialists gave expert advice on a range of topics such as the main mistakes start-up companies make, idea generation and value creation and sourcing funding for commercialisation.
“This programme was ideal for graduates who have an interest in commercialisation of technology and science-based research outputs, and who have an interest in technology start-up business venture creation. It also gave valuable advice to those who are considering careers with early stage technology-based companies,” says Rudi van der Merwe, project coordinator for technology transfer and community engagement in the Institutional Office.
“One of the great outcomes of the programme was quite a few new job opportunities for postgraduate students.”
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Entrepreneurs praise programme
Rudi says they received favourable feedback from all the participants. Click on the buttons below to read their comments.
“A must for all lecturers and students – learn to think outside the box. Don’t just dream your innovation; start planning how to do it. The speakers were excellent.”
Dr Petro Erasmus, Mafikeng Campus
“An incredibly well-organised and informative event. Great quality of speakers, meals served and content provided. Well done.”
Nicolaas Scheepers, Potchefstroom Campus
“I just wish you could invite more people and accept my application for next year in advance... Thank you!”
Oluwatimilehin Ayodeji, Vaal Triangle Campus
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Dr Lida Holtzhausen of the School for Communication Studies on the Potchefstroom Campus gave expert advice on the art of pitching a business venture.
Casper de Villiers, chief executive officer of Click-a-tell, was one of the many well-known speakers during the TIA Entrepreneur Programme.
The Technology Entrepreneur Programme secured some of the best keynote speakers in the industry.
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Expert speakers who participated in the week-long TIA Technology Entrepreneur Programme are Hannes Malan (NWU), Cedric Scheepers, chief executive officer of Quainted, Karen Eksteen, Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), Casper de Villiers, chief executive officer of Click-a-tell, Dr Lida Holtzhausen (NWU) and Rudi van der Merwe (NWU).
"We are looking forward to hosting this event again, and similar events in the near future," says Rudi. He invites all those who want to commercialise their business ideas to email him at Rudi.vandermerwe@nwu.ac.za.
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