Expert Session: "Turning Creativity into Business" 2025
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Submission deadline
Publication of results
Masterclass
Expert Session: "Turning Creativity into Business"
Are you a young creative entrepreneur looking to turn your ideas into a sustainable business?
HSE University - St. Petersburg invites you to participate in the "Expert Session: Turning Creativity into Business" 2025 This event is designed to bring together young student entrepreneurs in the cultural and creative industries and experts in this field. The program includes masterclasses and a student accelerator to provide expert feedback on your business ideas and offer networking opportunities.
JURY OF THE EXPERT SESSION
Eligibility Criteria
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Open to the students aiming to develop an entrepreneurial idea in the cultural sphere and creative industries
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Participants may apply individually or in teams of up to 3-4 people
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Only one representative per team must submit the application
Application Process & Submission Requirements
Project Proposal
(Word document, maximum 10,000 characters including spaces)
Project Overview
Describe your product or creative idea that you intend to develop into a business project. Be specific about your purpose, concept, and market potential. Support your explanation with relevant data or knowledge that demonstrates why there is demand for your product.
Target Audience (TA)
Define your ideal customer profile. Who will benefit from or be interested in your product? Provide a clear description of your target audience, including demographics, preferences, and behaviors.
Unique Value Proposition & Competitive Advantage
What differentiates your product from competitors? Highlight its unique features and explain why it stands out in the market.
Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
Describe the simplest version of your product that can be launched to test its viability. Specify the key features and how you plan to validate your idea.
Estimated Launch Costs
Provide an approximate budget for starting your business project, covering essential expenses such as production, marketing, and operations.
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Deadline: 11th of April 2025
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Publication of results 13th of April 2025
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Masterclass 14th of April 2025
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Expert Session: "Turning Creativity into Business" 2025 19th of April 2025
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Languages: English/Russian
Selection Process & Event Phases
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Phase 1 – Submission & Initial Evaluation (11th of April 2025)
- All submitted projects will be reviewed by a panel of experts.
- The most promising projects will be selected as semifinalists.
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Phase 2 – Public Promotion of Semi-Finalists (13th of April 2025)
- Semifinalist projects will be showcased on HSE's social media and media platforms to increase their visibility and reach.
- Recognition and feedback from industry professionals will be provided.
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Phase 3 – Finalist Selection & Business Session (14th - 19th of April 2025)
- Selected finalists will be invited to present their projects in person during the Business Session at HSE in St. Petersburg.
- All applicants, including those who were not selected, are invited to attend the Masterclass (April 14, 2025) and the event's Expert Session: "Turning Creativity into Business" (April 19, 2025) to gain expert insights and network.
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Final Recognition & Awards (19th of April 2025)
- At the end of the event, the top 3 projects will receive special recognition (details will be revealed at the event).
Why Apply?
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Get expert feedback to improve and develop your existing or future business project.
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Showcase your work to creative industry professionals.
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Increased visibility through HSE's media and social platforms.
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Network with entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders.
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Attend an exclusive event at one of Russia's top universities.
Don't miss this opportunity to take your creative business idea to the next level!
Contact
Contact
Contacto: Olga Okulova ookulova@hse.ru