HKBU School of Business Hosts Successful Startup Mentoring Forum, Energising the GBA Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

12 Feb, 2025
 

The HKBU School of Business marked a significant step in supporting the regional startup ecosystem by hosting its inaugural Startup Mentoring Forum on 12th February, 2025. The forum successfully convened industry experts and mentors, creating a valuable platform to enhance the local startup environment. This was not just another talk-shop; it was a high-energy collision of minds dedicated to fuelling innovation and forging stronger bonds within the entrepreneurial community.

The forum emphasised active participation and co-creation. Participants engaged in lively discussions, sharing practical experiences, addressing key challenges, and developing collaborative recommendations to advance the ecosystem. Moving beyond typical presentations, the event facilitated a multifaceted exchange of knowledge and served as a launchpad for meaningful networking. The agenda was structured to maximise dialogue on the importance of mentorship, highlight emerging trends and challenges, and ultimately, drive tangible innovation and sustainable progress within the startup sector.

A key highlight was the impactful “Insights & Action” Session. Industry leaders presented focused findings and actionable recommendations for addressing existing gaps and enhancing industry contributions to the startup landscape in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. The session emphasised translating discussion into practical action and moving beyond talk and into action.

Beyond the formal programme, dedicated networking areas became hubs for mentors to connect, explore collaborations, and identify opportunities to strengthen the startup ecosystem. The atmosphere was positively buzzing with shared purpose and mutual support, demonstrating a strong sense of community among the mentors.

Dr. Marta DOWEJKO, Director of the School’s  Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre (EIC), captured the forum's essence perfectly: “A brilliant startup idea is just the starting point. Mentorship is the rocket fuel for sustained growth and impactful success. The raw experience and wisdom shared by our mentors here was immensely valuable and profoundly inspiring. This is real-world guidance that will translate into real-world results.” The EIC is already harnessing the forum's energy, diligently compiling insights and suggestions into a forthcoming report – a concrete deliverable to further empower the startup community.

Prof. Han ZHANG, Dean of the School of Business, highlighted the forum’s strategic importance: “This forum aligns closely with the School's mission to actively engage with and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and to prepare future business leaders to effectively address emerging challenges. We anticipate that this forum will serve as a catalyst for enhanced collaboration, impactful innovation, and the continued advancement of our entrepreneurial landscape.”