UCI Applied Innovation recently hosted Tsuchiura Daiichi High School’s Super Global Program, a competition funded by the Japanese government that aims to build students’ entrepreneurial skills and teaches them global market research.
The student groups took turns presenting their research-based business plans in five minute increments to peers, graduate students and UCI professors. After each pitch, the judges provided constructive feedback, which was measured by uniqueness, impact, presentation, and global market favorability. And, as an added layer, the international students presented in English, which is noted as their second language.
“[Super Global Program] is aimed at nurturing a global perspective in young Japanese students,” said Shimako Kawauchi, Ph.D., project scientist at UCI and event speaker. “We all know coming to a different country and presenting in a different language is a very difficult thing to do.”
Students showcased original ideas that ranged from defense mechanisms for rising sea levels to a tourism information service that educates travelers of landmarks built for famous Japanese philosophers and writers.
The feedback received aims to improve their business plans and presentation skills in preparation for the upcoming 2019 Business Plan Competition held in Japan.