“We are deeply committed to advancing entrepreneurship and innovation, and that is why we are honored and privileged to be part of this event,” explained Mel Horwitch, dean of CEU Business School. “Entrepreneurship is transforming the character of our school, and we believe it can do the same for Hungary.”

Dean Horwitch reflected on how successful entrepreneurs rely on more than just passion. “They need professional skills, global awareness, and the ability to create and lead teams,” he said.

The Kairos Society, a non-profit organization based in the U.S., aims to cultivate aspiring college entrepreneurs that possess such traits by connecting them with mentors from top universities and corporations around the world.

The organization began in 2008 with chapters at 14 universities in America. It has grown to include chapters at more than 100 universities in more than 30 countries.

Alex Fiance, president of Kairos Society Global, explained how the Society is especially focused on student-created companies and innovations that solve critical global issues in areas such as healthcare and energy. “Entrepreneurs solve problems; and the world has a lot of problems,” he said.

Bala Mulloth, a CEU Business School assistant professor of entrepreneurship and innovation management and faculty director of its business incubator, CEU InnovationsLab, was one of the competition’s judges.

“The talented, enthusiastic students presenting their ideas here today represent a promising generation of young Hungarian entrepreneurs,” he said.

Roland Zonai, presenter of BioMIPAT, a software application that promises to reduce the cost of developing pharmaceuticals, came in second place. Other ideas included a cybersecurity tool for e-commerce customers and a quad-copter flying toy that can be controlled with a smartphone.

Judges and audience members probed presenters following their three-minute pitches about aspects of their plans ranging from business models to production strategies. They also offered feedback.

“Thinking globally” about their product and approach was one of the biggest takeaways for MiniBrake team members Daniel Bognar and Peter Szesztay.

MiniBrake will join winners from other Kairos chapter competitions at the Kairos Global Summit where they will unveil their concept to the world on the New York Stock Exchange Trading Floor in February.

Source: CEU Business School