During the 2024 Students Week at Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences (FHV), I participated in the 'Building the Born Global Firm' Short Advanced Programme (SAP) Challenge, co-organized by FHV and the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS). The challenge focused on addressing hurdles faced by start-ups expanding internationally, with an emphasis on rapid global growth, customer retention, and sustainable market strategies.

Out of 250 participants, I was honored to win with the best startup idea: an app named Fashionista, allowing users to scan their body or create a virtual self to try on clothes before purchasing. The app addresses the issue of high return rates by showing how clothes fit based on body shape and skin tone, reducing waste. It also includes a social feature where users can explore outfits and easily see how they look on themselves. This experience significantly enhanced my understanding of international business strategies and the importance of collaboration in global entrepreneurship.

You can read more about the teams that won their challenge they signed up for.

Behind the Challenge: A Personal Take

The primary aim of this course was to teach teamwork, working with new people, and rapidly designing and developing concepts—a "fail fast" mindset. The idea was to prototype and iterate quickly, spending minimal time on ideas that might not succeed. Initially, I didn’t think I had this skillset, but as the story unfolds, you’ll see how it led to an amusing result!

The lessons were delivered by outstanding professors, each specializing in their respective fields. Additionally, Hilti, a renowned company known for its excellent team environments, provided insights into effective teamwork. With this knowledge, we embarked on designing and prototyping our ideas within just eight hours—a real test of our ability to manage stress and think creatively. This included brainstorming techniques, creating financial projections, and evaluating feasibility and return on investment. It was an intense yet exhilarating process, culminating in a presentation on the final day.

Schnitzel, Friends, and Prosecco Adventures

Between lessons, there were plenty of memorable experiences. Austria introduced me to an overwhelming amount of schnitzel (thanks, Austria...), as I hesitated to try new dishes. However, the real joy came from bonding with my peers. Some Portuguese students we befriended were incredibly warm and hospitable, so we invited them to our modern apartment for dinner. I cooked my signature dish: wraps with homemade sliced chicken seasoned with secret herbs, mango, and fresh vegetables. Despite the challenge of slicing 2kg of chicken with a small knife (it took me 30-40 minutes!), everyone loved the dish.

One night out stands out vividly. We joined some Dutch students and Howest staff, including Mieke Demeyere, the Vice President of Howest, for drinks. Mieke even treated me to prosecco on the condition that I drink with her—a deal I gladly accepted! Later, we stumbled into a karaoke bar, where six Howest staff members, including Mieke, joined us. Fueled by drinks and enthusiasm, we sang our hearts out (badly, I must admit). Our "performance" likely cleared the bar, but it was all in good fun.

Mountain Adventures and Farewells

On one of the last days, we took a breathtaking cable ride up a mountain for some leisure time. The height and views were incomparable to our earlier cable ride to Lünersee. The scenery was straight out of a movie—clouds passed right before our eyes as we marveled at the lush woods and winding mountain roads. It was a peaceful and surreal experience.

Saying goodbye to our Portuguese friends was bittersweet. They headed to Milan while we stayed in Dornbirn for the Lünersee trip. That journey was worth every second, despite the nerve-wracking bus ride to the cable station—full of sharp turns and steep drops. At Lünersee, the combination of high-altitude beauty and tranquility left an indelible mark on all of us.

Final Reflections

Participating in the 'Building the Born Global Firm' challenge was a transformative experience. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, rapid prototyping, and the dynamics of global business. The camaraderie, laughter, and unexpected adventures made it even more memorable. This journey not only expanded my professional skillset but also gave me stories and friendships that I will treasure forever.