Y Generation Entrepreneurs: a Networking Session hosted by MY-WAY at ICT2015!

MY-WAY participated in ICT2015 - Innovate, Connect, Transform, a large event organised by the European Commission and the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia in Lisbon on 20-22 October.

This large event comprised:

• A policy conference presenting the new Commission's policies and initiatives on Research & Innovation in ICT (Horizon 2020 Programme);
• An interactive exhibition showcasing the best results and impact of most recent EU ICT Research & Innovation;
• Many networking opportunities to enhance quality partnerships, help participants find partners, connect Research and Innovation and trigger collaboration;
• Horizon 2020 Work Programme 2016-2017 thematic sessions, offering detailed information on the funding opportunities in ICT sector;
• The Startup Europe Forum, offering a set of activities profiling EU policy actions for startups and SMEs, innovators, private and public investors.

MY-WAY has also hosted and moderated a Networking Session on 21st October (4:00 - 4:45pm) on "Startup Europe - Y Generation Entrepreneurs", providing case studies, best practices and precious insights into MY-WAY's activities and results.

Discussion points included:

• Best practices and examples from the MY-WAY project,
• Examples and case studies from the project’s individual partners, who are accelerators, mentors and other key players within the entrepreneurship ecosystem,
• A description of the potential assistance and support offered by Startup Europe and its related projects;
• Highlight on the role of universities and students networks in providing support to wannabe entrepreneurs.

Mr. David Trayford moderated the session, introducing panellists:

• Ms. Krisztina Varga-Tóth (Europa Media Non-Profit Ltd.)
• Mr. José Barros (ePlus Ecosystem)
• Ms. Holly Knower (NACUE – National Association of College and University Entrepreneurs)
• Ms. Ayelet Sapir (Bar Ilan University)
• Mr. Nick Slater (Capital Enterprise)
• Mr. Aneesh Zutshi (DigiStart Project)

In the video below you can hear Aneesh discussing how generating a critical mass is key to increasing entrepreneuerial culture in universities. One element that has worked has been bringing successuful startups to campuses to motivate students
Ayelet added that it should not be just about telling success stories: most entrepreneurs have had one or two failures, they can explain how this failure helped them: it is in fact the 3rd or 4th chance-taking that has been successful!
Holly provided the example of NACUE to highlight that students should have the proper competences and skills, including self-confidence: student networks should help them find the most relevant opportunities.

For the full story: https://storify.com/My_WayProject/yentrepreneur-ict2015

To have more pictures and information from the event, like our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/My-Way-Project-363875190467326/), follow @My_WayProject on Twitter and the hashtag #Yentrepreneur