In a bid to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, the North-West University (NWU) recently held a start-up bootcamp, titled “Be your own boss”, simultaneously across all three campuses on 11 May 2024.

Spearheaded by the bhive Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), the initiative aimed to equip students with essential tools for success and to ignite a fire of entrepreneurship that promises to reshape the business landscape.

“The bhive EDC is committed to nurturing entrepreneurial talent within our academic community and beyond,” says Annelie Steenkamp, senior project administrator at the bhive EDC.

“This dynamic entrepreneurship bootcamp saw enthusiastic participation from students across faculties and disciplines. This event was not just another run-of-the-mill workshop; it was an immersive experience designed to empower students to transform their ideas into viable businesses.”

The bootcamp offered a blend of interactive sessions, practical workshops and mentorship opportunities. The energy was infectious as students eagerly absorbed knowledge and actively engaged with the material. The pinnacle of the bootcamp was the highly anticipated business pitch competition, where budding entrepreneurs showcased their prowess.

Among the standout winners were Banele Ndlovu (Vanderbijlpark), Juyde Davids (Mahikeng), and Jannie van Dyk (Potchefstroom), who each received a prize of R1 000 for their innovative pitches. Their success not only underscored their grasp of business fundamentals, but also hinted at the immense potential within the NWU’s student body to make waves in the business world.

According to Dr Johann Landsberg, manager of the bhive EDC, the impact of this event was profound, igniting a spark of entrepreneurial fervour among the students.

“But the excitement does not end there. The bhive EDC is rolling out a series of transformative initiatives tailored to the NWU's entrepreneurial community. Among these initiatives is a start-up bootcamp catering specifically to postgraduate students, providing them with the tools and guidance needed to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with confidence.”

Additionally, the Student Training for Entrepreneurial Promotion (STEP) training programme is set to equip students with practical skills essential for entrepreneurial success.

Another highlight to look forward to is the annual NWU Leopards Lair Business Competition. Entries opened on 22 May, with the finals taking place on 3 October 2024, where students can showcase their ventures and compete for recognition and support.

Also on the calendar is October's Student Entrepreneurship Week, a week-long celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship that promises to inspire and empower.

“We urge all students to seize these exciting opportunities and embark on their entrepreneurial journey. Visit our website for more information and let us innovate, inspire, and ignite the entrepreneurial spirit within!” says Annelie.

Start-up bootcamp action: Mahikeng Campus.

Start-up bootcamp action: Potchefstroom Campus.

Start-up bootcamp action: Vanderbijlpark Campus.