Local Start-up Financial Assistance Initiatives at BSRU
Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University (BSRU) is committed to promoting sustainable economic growth in the local community through various financial assistance initiatives for start-ups, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1), which aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Smart Start Idea by GSB Startup Competition
One notable initiative is the Smart Start Idea by GSB Startup competition, launched in 2023 in collaboration with the Government Savings Bank (GSB). This competition invites students and recent graduates to develop innovative products and services aligned with the BCG Economy (Bio-Circular-Green Economy). Participants compete for scholarships worth over 1.25 million THB, which enables them to transform their prototypes into viable businesses. This competition exemplifies BSRU’s direct financial support for aspiring entrepreneurs, with all relevant information about the application process and thematic areas clearly documented and publicly available to ensure transparency.
GSB Youth Development Program
Continuing this partnership, BSRU has also engaged in the GSB Youth Development Program, now in its sixth year. This program supports local community organizations, including OTOP (One Tambon One Product) enterprises, by enhancing their operational management, marketing, and financial accounting capabilities. Community organizations are encouraged to present their project proposals, and in return, they receive expert guidance from BSRU students. The outcomes and methodologies of this program are shared with the public, promoting awareness and participation among local businesses.
TeaVolution Project
A standout project under this program is the TeaVolution Project, which saw students collaborating with the Mulberry Tea Community Enterprise to develop a new product—a mulberry fruity tea. This project not only focuses on product development but also incorporates sustainable practices, such as minimizing waste by using leftover materials from tea processing to create organic fertilizer. The project has received recognition, including a runner-up prize and financial support for further development, with results and methodologies shared publicly to inspire other local entrepreneurs.
U2T for BCG Initiative
Furthermore, BSRU participates in the U2T for BCG initiative, designed to support local producers through education and market access. This initiative includes workshops on product development and packaging, equipping community members with the necessary knowledge and skills to thrive in the marketplace. The project encompasses various training sessions and exhibitions that showcase community products, with success stories and future plans made available to the public.
Gen Z Smart Startup Program
The Gen Z Smart Startup program is aimed at empowering BSRU students in grades 1 to 4 to develop their entrepreneurial skills. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young students, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8), which promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all.
To participate, groups of 7 to 10 students must collaborate with one or two faculty advisors and submit at least one business plan. The program includes training sessions designed to equip students with essential entrepreneurial skills, culminating in the presentation of their business ideas through a 3-5 minute video. The timeline of the program features various stages, such as business plan submissions, workshops, and a final competition where groups can receive financial support of up to 30,000 baht to aid their startup endeavors.This initiative not only enhances students’ entrepreneurial capabilities but also encourages collaboration and teamwork, which are critical skills for success in the modern economy. By supporting students in developing viable business concepts, BSRU is actively contributing to the creation of a new generation of entrepreneurs who can drive local economic growth.
BSRU Startup Idea Hackathon 2023
Furthermore, the BSRU Startup Idea Hackathon 2023 event aimed to elevate community product standards through research and innovation, aligning with SDG 9, which emphasizes the importance of resilient infrastructure and innovation.
During the hackathon, student teams from various faculties presented their startup ideas for a chance to pitch for a funding award of 30,000 baht. Seven teams participated, showcasing diverse projects, including health-focused bakery products, agricultural pest control solutions, and innovative herbal remedies. Each team had the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and the impact of their ideas on community needs.
This hackathon not only serves as a platform for students to gain practical experience in pitching and business development but also emphasizes the role of research and innovation in advancing community products. By facilitating such events, BSRU fosters an environment that encourages students to think critically about societal challenges and develop entrepreneurial solutions. Through these initiatives, BSRU effectively supports the establishment of socially and financially sustainable businesses within the local community, contributing to economic development and entrepreneurship as part of its broader commitment to sustainable development goals.
