Venturify – Workshop Day
February 2, 2025 · 3:30 AM - 8:30 AM @ Colombo 02, Curtin University Colombo,
Description
The Venturify Project, an engineering entrepreneurship initiative, successfully concluded on February 2nd at Curtin University Colombo. Organized by the IEEE IAS Student Branch Chapters of SLTC and SLIIT, the initiative aimed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills to thrive in the competitive business world. Through engaging sessions, participants explored innovative thinking, funding strategies, and real-world entrepreneurial challenges, enhancing their ability to transform ideas into successful ventures. The event began with a vibrant opening ceremony, setting the stage for a day of insightful discussions. Organizers welcomed participants with an inspiring message, emphasizing the mission to foster innovation and empower future entrepreneurs. The keynote address was delivered by Peter D’Almeida, a visionary leader and entrepreneur. His session, "Creativity and Thinking Big as an Entrepreneur," highlighted the importance of innovative problem-solving and an entrepreneurial mindset. Through personal experiences and strategies, he encouraged attendees to embrace challenges and think beyond conventional limits. Participants then engaged in a dynamic workshop simulating real-world financial decision-making. Teams of 2–3 members were allocated a funding amount and a structured mind map to develop strategic spending plans for business growth. The workshop fostered critical thinking and collaboration, as teams defended their funding strategies. At the end of the session, awards were presented: "Best Use of Funds" – Recognizing the most strategic financial planning. "Most Scalable Business" – Selected via audience vote for the highest growth potential. A thought-provoking panel discussion followed, featuring industry experts Ms. Dilini Ekanayake and Mr. Kusan Edirisinghe, moderated by Gaindu. The panel addressed key entrepreneurial challenges, including securing funding, scaling businesses, navigating competition, and resilience in the face of failure. Participants gained invaluable insights and had the opportunity to ask tailored questions. As the grand finale of Venturify, the event provided an interactive and hands-on learning experience, bridging the gap between technical expertise and business acumen. Attendees also connected with industry leaders, fostering valuable relationships for their future ventures. A heartfelt vote of thanks acknowledged the contributions of speakers, panelists, and organizers, with special appreciation for the participants’ enthusiasm. As the event concluded, it was evident that Venturify had left a lasting impact, empowering the next generation of engineering entrepreneurs to take bold steps toward innovation and business success. Through this initiative, IEEE IAS Student Branch Chapters of SLTC and SLIIT reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation in Sri Lanka’s engineering community.
Agenda
09.00 AM – 09.30 AM Opening Ceremony 09.30 AM – 10.00 AM Keynote Speech 10.00 AM – 12.00 PM Interactive Workshop 12.15 PM – 01.30 PM Panel Discussion 01.30 PM – 02.00 PM Token of Appreciation & Closing Remarks