Investment Course: Polytechnic Students Learn to Raise Funds for Startups
The Polytechnic University of St. Petersburg has successfully completed an educational module as part of an international polytechnic accelerator program. The module focused on developing financial models for innovative projects to facilitate their entry into foreign markets, with the university’s foreign partners providing support.
Teams from various departments of the Polytechnic University participated in the module, including the Higher School of Cyber-Physical Systems Management, the Higher School of Power Engineering, the Higher School of Computer Technologies and Information Systems, the laboratory of the NTI Center New Manufacturing Technologies, and the Center for Technological Projects.
Attracting investment is a crucial aspect of entering the international market, making the development of financial models a key component of the module program. Denis Bezruchko, the head of the Polytech-invest laboratory at the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics, and Trade of St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, shared his proprietary method for calculating financial models of investment projects. He guided the participants in efficiently creating compelling financial models for potential investors.
Understanding the competitive landscape is essential in finding investors and assessing the financial viability of a project. Ismail Kadiev, the director of the Center for Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer, and Anastasia Chasovnikova, the deputy director of the Department of Strategic Planning and Development, discussed the importance of competitive analysis using patent analytics and scientometrics methodologies. They emphasized how the use of scientific databases can help inform a project’s commercial strategy, identify competitors, and establish partnerships, particularly in technology projects.
The educational program also featured the international track, which focused on the Chinese market. The Polytechnic’s partners provided insights into trends in China’s high-tech markets and sources of financing for innovative projects in Jiangsu Province. Additionally, successful Russian entrepreneurs who have established businesses in China shared their experiences and knowledge of Chinese entrepreneurship and high-tech business.
During the program’s final day, participants unveiled the results of their work. Gong Bowen, a graduate student from the GSEM, presented a project for the creation of a modern, highly efficient low-power carbon dioxide gas turbine plant. Implementing such installations contributes to the advancement of carbon-free energy concepts.
Vladislav Zaitsev, a master’s student from the Institute of Mechanical Engineering and Technology, showcased a new approach to ultrasonic welding that enables rapid and reliable joining of a broad range of composite materials. Other projects addressed pressing issues such as environmental protection, import-substituting software development, and the advancement of materials for solar energy.
Upon completing the program, participants will receive certificates of advanced training. They will also have the opportunity to collaborate with Chinese partners, supported by international services, to further develop their projects.
This educational module at the Polytechnic University of St. Petersburg provides students with a comprehensive understanding of investment strategies and the necessary financial models to propel innovative projects into international markets. With the guidance of experts and the support of foreign partners, these budding entrepreneurs are equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the competitive startup landscape.
