From Innovation to Impact: VIA University’s Path to Sustainable Entrepreneurship

1. Could you please introduce yourself and your organization in a few short sentences.

I have dedicated the past 18 years to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship at VIA
University College, located in Aarhus - Central Region Denmark. VIA has 19.000 students
and offer 41 distinct study programs, ranging from engineering and design to healthcare
and social studies. VIAs has been arwarded as the entrepreneurial instition of the year
three times in Denmark.

2. Let´s start by discussing your role within Start for Future. What inspired you to join this
initiative, and can you describe your contributions to the startup ecosystem in a few words?

We proudly joined the Start for Future initiative in its third cohort with our project, SFFDeepT+.
Our involvement has been substantial, with many of our startup coaches actively participating in
mentoring and guiding emerging startups. Additionally, we have been integral members of the
team, contributing to the rethinking, develop & co-creation module. Our commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship has been evident through our dedicated efforts in these areas.

3. Through the EIT HEI initiative and new cohort, you will be loading a new impact driven initiative called Sustain4Future. In a few words, what makes this initiative special?

Sustain4Future is a special initiative that stands out due to its deep commitment to sustainability and innovation. Through the EIT HEI initiative and the new cohort, Sustain4Future focuses on integrating sustainability into the educational process, ensuring that students think sustainably from the outset. The program includes local teaching in local languages and concludes with a joint online pitch event, promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing across institutions.

4. How do you see Sustainability for Future building on the elements you have gained from Start for Future over the last few months?

We aim to develop the learn element in two ways. In the S4F project, we are renaming it from Learn to Teach and Rise. We will integrate sustainability into the program so that students think sustainably from the outset. Additionally, we will conduct most of the teaching locally and in our local language. We will conclude with a joint online pitch event.

5. What is your vision for Sustainability for Future? Where do you see the project in 5 years time?

"A Greener and More Competitive Europe" We envision a Europe that is not only
environmentally sustainable but also economically competitive.

We aim to elevate the participating universities & focus on s;ustainable entrepreneurship and implement these principles in practice. By fostering a culture of sustainability, we strive to integrate eco-friendly practices into the core of entrepreneurial education. This initiative will not only enhance the universities commitment to sustainability but also ensure that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to drive environmentally responsible business practices. Through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches, we are dedicated to making sustainable entrepreneurship a fundamental aspect of higher education and real-world application.

6. If you could describe SFF in one word, what would it be?

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