Startup WRO Meetup vol. 3 – Combining science and business

30.09.2023

September saw another meeting in the Startup WRO Meetup series. This time the event gained an international dimension, thanks to the presence of special guests from Turku Science Park Ltd, Turku University of Applied Sciences, Turun yliopisto - University of Turku and Business Turku in Finland. The main topic of discussion was the issue of cooperation between science and business, and participants had the opportunity to exchange experiences and seek new paths of cooperation.

Connecting two worlds

The panel discussion featured representatives of Wroclaw’s largest universities. The event was an excellent opportunity for representatives of the worlds of science and business to get to know each other better, exchange experiences and inspire each other.

“Cooperation between universities and the business environment is sometimes difficult. Entrepreneurs expect a quick response, a quick solution, this is not always possible, due to procedural, financial and organizational constraints. Events such as today’s are an excellent opportunity to share good practices of existing solutions at other universities and to draw inspiration.”
– Małgorzata Krzywonos, Professor, Wroclaw University of Economics

Discussion panelists during Startup WRO Meetup

Presentations were given by organizations that aim to connect the academic and business communities. Bartlomiej Postek, founder of Hanza Group, and Michael Lindholm, Network Manager at Turku Science Park, talked about opportunities for cooperation.

“Universities, by creating environments, have the potential to influence the engagement of people during their studies. What values and vision of the world universities convey significantly affects how graduates shape their careers. According to many, universities should focus more on shaping students’ values and aspirations, considering this a key element in their development. Good role models and practices in this area are seen as an important development direction for universities.”
– Bartłomiej Postek, founder of HANZA Group

Bartłomiej Postek during his presentation

Exchange of inspiration

The challenges of connecting academia and business are real, but events like Startup WRO Meetup vol. 3 become a bridge connecting different worlds, creating a space to exchange experiences and inspiration.

“In my opinion, meetings such as today’s are extremely important, as they provide a unique opportunity for young and talented individuals to network with representatives of large institutions, such as universities. Universities play a key role, providing not only extensive expertise, but also sharing their experience, resources and infrastructure. On the other hand, startups bring with them freshness and innovative ideas that can accelerate the development of projects.”
– Bartosz Zych, Centrum Innowacji i Biznesu, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology

The event was organized by Startup Wroclaw and the Wroclaw Agglomeration Development Agency. Strategic partners are BNP Paribas Bank Poland and SDZLEGAL SCHINDHELM.