Are you an early-career engineer looking to take your innovative ideas to the next level? The UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Early-Career Engineers is here to help you achieve your goals! Set to take place from 9 to 13 September 2024 in Luanda, Angola, this 5-day intensive bootcamp offers a unique opportunity to learn from top experts and network with like-minded professionals. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting programme and how you can be a part of it!
What is the UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp?
The UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp is a premier event designed for early-career engineers in Africa. Organised under the auspices of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development 2024-2033, the bootcamp is a key part of the 10th Africa Engineering Week. This is your chance to dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Why should you apply?
- Learn from Experts: Gain insights from experienced inventors and entrepreneurs.
- Develop Skills: Master essential skills for turning your scientific inventions into viable products.
- Build Connections: Network with professionals and peers from across Africa.
Apply for the UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp
Bootcamp Details: What You Will Learn
The bootcamp covers a wide range of topics designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful career in engineering and entrepreneurship. Here’s a sneak peek at the exciting curriculum:
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Understand the role of engineering in achieving the SDGs.
- Opportunity Assessment: Learn how to evaluate opportunities for your innovations.
- Intellectual Property (IP): Discover the significance of IP and how to protect your inventions.
- Financial Knowledge: Gain basic financial skills essential for start-ups.
- Market Strategies: Learn about the processes and timelines for taking an idea from concept to market.
- Business Models and Plans: Develop your own business model and business plan.
- Success Stories: Get inspired by real-world success stories from established entrepreneurs.
- Innovation Tools: Explore various tools for innovation and start-up growth.
- Raising Funds: Learn strategies for fundraising for your start-up.
Pro Tip: This bootcamp is a golden opportunity to get hands-on experience with the processes that turn innovative ideas into successful businesses.
Discover the full bootcamp schedule and topics
Who Can Apply?
The UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp is looking for enthusiastic individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Age: Under 35 years of age by 31 December 2024.
- Career Stage: Early-career engineers, including those currently enrolled in engineering programmes or practicing engineers.
- Residency: A national and resident of an African country.
- Availability: Must be available for all days of the bootcamp, including the two pre-bootcamp online engagements.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a resident of an African country.
- Be under 35 years of age by the end of 2024.
- Available for the entire duration of the bootcamp and pre-engagement sessions.
Check the detailed eligibility criteria and apply
Provisional Timeline for the Bootcamp
Here’s a quick overview of the important dates for the bootcamp:
- 31 July 2024: Deadline for Applications.
- 06 August 2024: Notification of Accepted Participants.
- 27 August 2024: 1st Virtual Meet-Up: Pre-Bootcamp Online Engagement 1 – Introduction and Idea Solicitation (5:00-7:00 PM Luanda Time).
- 03 September 2024: 2nd Virtual Meet-Up: Pre-Bootcamp Online Engagement 2 – Team Building Exercise (5:00-7:00 PM Luanda Time).
- 09 September 2024: Opening Ceremony of the 10th Africa Engineering Week (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Luanda Time).
- 09-13 September 2024: Entrepreneurship Bootcamp.
Pro Tip: Mark these dates in your calendar to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the key activities.
What Does the Bootcamp Cover?
Here’s a summary of the benefits and coverage provided for participants:
- Accommodation: Shared double rooms for those coming from outside Luanda.
- Meals: All meals are included throughout the bootcamp.
- Air Tickets: Air tickets for participants travelling from outside Angola.
- Mentorship: Access to a team of experienced mentors for one-on-one sessions and group activities.
What’s in it for you?
- Accommodation and Meals: We cover your stay and food, so you can focus on learning.
- Travel Costs: We provide air tickets for participants from outside Angola.
- Mentorship: Benefit from the guidance of seasoned inventors and entrepreneurs.
How to Apply
Ready to take the plunge? Here’s how you can apply for the UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp:
- Fill Out the Application: Submit your application before 31 July 2024.
- Prepare for Online Engagements: Participate in the two pre-bootcamp online sessions.
- Join the Bootcamp: Attend the bootcamp in Luanda from 9-13 September 2024.
Conclusion: Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Opportunity
The UNESCO-IEEE Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Early-Career Engineers is more than just a training programme. It’s an opportunity to transform your innovative ideas into actionable plans and connect with a network of professionals dedicated to sustainable development.
Here’s why you should apply:
- Unique Learning Experience: Gain invaluable skills from top experts.
- Global Networking: Meet peers and professionals from across Africa.
- Support and Resources: Get access to accommodation, meals, and travel expenses.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to advance your career and contribute to sustainable development through engineering.
