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Effat University, Saudi Arabia’s first-ever non-profit private institution for higher education for women recently organized a two-day event name the Go Startup Boot Camp which was dedicated to helping participants develop their entrepreneurial skills.

Conducted within the university’s premises, the event saw more than 100 participants learning different aspects of conducting, and expanding a business.

The event comprised a series of programs including skills learning and practice, as well as a blending knowledge.

Each participant was required to take 17 challenges emanating from three elements of Saudi Vision 2030 including a vibrant society, an ambitious nation, and a thriving economy.

The boot camp kicked off by introducing the participants to the fundamentals of the startup process. The follow-up sessions saw 23 speakers, mentors, and coaches educating them about various elements within the startup agenda.

At each step, the participants had a speaker who helped them comprehend the concept and significance of that particular step. The participants also had to work in teams to complete business models and develop the startup business canvas.

“Entrepreneurial ventures are fundamental to the success of Saudi Vision 2030 and women can make a significant contribution by implementing innovative projects that diversify the Kingdom’s economic resources,” said Haifa Jamal Al-Lail, president of Effat University.

There were a total of 52 teams, all comprising of Effat staff and students, alumnae, as well as members of the general public. Out of those 52, only eight teams made it through.

The first prize winner was rewarded with a prize of $5,000. The three teams that secured the second spot won $3,000 each and the rest of the teams that stood third received $1,000. The cash prizes were sponsored by the Islamic Development Bank (IDB).

[Source]