In an era where sustainability is increasingly pivotal, the concept of sustainable entrepreneurship is gaining significant traction. It goes beyond traditional business practices by incorporating environmental and social factors to create long-term value beyond profit alone. Sustainable entrepreneurs address global challenges like climate change and social inequality by developing innovative solutions that benefit both the planet and society.
As highlighted in recent discussions, the future of our planet depends on nurturing entrepreneurs who are committed to sustainability. Sustainable entrepreneurship not only reduces environmental impact but also opens new opportunities for business growth and resilience. In addition, sustainable businesses are better equipped to adapt to changing regulations and consumer preferences, ensuring long-term viability and impact.
Shaping a generation of sustainable entrepreneurs
The Master in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MIE) program at ESMT Berlin is at the forefront of nurturing this new breed of sustainable entrepreneurs and change-makers. The program is designed to equip students with the skills and mindset needed to integrate sustainability into their entrepreneurial ventures, ensuring they are prepared to tackle the challenges of the future.
A cornerstone of our MIE program is the Sustainability Bootcamp (SB), a three-week intensive program organized in collaboration with Vali Berlin, ESMT’s entrepreneurship hub. It is the first practical component of the MIE program, providing students with hands-on experience in developing sustainable business models and solutions.
Today, we are excited to chat with Caroline Baltrusch, a current MIE student, who will share her insights and key takeaways from the recent Sustainability Bootcamp. Join us as we delve into her experiences and learn how the program is shaping the future of sustainable entrepreneurship.
Tell us more about the challenges you worked on, such as the Lufthansa Innovation Hub Challenge and the individual challenge.
Caroline: “The Lufthansa Innovation Hub (LIH) provided three challenges in the areas of AI, Circularity and Loyalty. We were able to look at these challenges from the perspective of the airline or the consumer to ideate sustainability solutions.
Additionally, a fourth topic, sustainability in real estate, was picked out of topics pitched by participants on the first day. I personally chose to work on this topic, as I had already prepared for this before the start of the Sustainability Bootcamp, with some of my classmates.
During the program we formed teams, ideated, developed first potential solutions, and pitched them on the final day.”
What do you think was the most important thing that you learned during the Sustainability Bootcamp?
Caroline: “The Bootcamp taught me the importance of a structured approach to innovation. It provided a clear framework and methodology for ideating and developing sustainable solutions. This structured approach helped organize the creative process, making it more efficient and focused.”
What did you find challenging about the Sustainability Bootcamp?
Caroline: “One of the biggest challenges was maintaining an open mind and not restraining ourselves to conventional ideas. It required a collaborative effort to push beyond traditional thinking and consider innovative approaches to sustainability. We utilized design thinking processes to gather ideas.
The three-week duration of the sustainability bootcamp was another significant challenge. Developing sustainable solutions typically requires extensive research, planning, and iterative testing, all of which are difficult to accomplish in such a short period. Despite this, the bootcamp was an excellent starting point, providing a solid foundation that my team and I have continued to build upon beyond the program.”
What was your favorite thing about participating in the Sustainability Bootcamp?
Caroline: “My favorite thing about the Sustainability Bootcamp was the several coaching sessions. The motivating and experienced coaches helped us to make progress on our idea and to never lose the excitement. Every group had one coach, and we all had the opportunity to work with a “pitch doctor” as well as other incredibly smart and inspiring people such as Florian Huber who gave keynotes throughout the program.”
What were some memorable experiences you had during the Sustainability Bootcamp?
Caroline: “One of the most memorable experiences of the Sustainability Bootcamp was the final pitch day at Lufthansa Innovation Hub. Each group had the opportunity to pitch their solution to a jury. Witnessing the remarkable progress and all the innovative, creative solutions that the participants of the program had come up with in such a short period was truly amazing!
The preparation leading up to this day was equally impactful. The pitch training session provided us with the skills and confidence needed to deliver our presentation effectively. A standout was working with the pitch doctor, whose expertise and energy helped us craft good stories. This has elevated our presentations, making the final pitching day a highlight of the Bootcamp.”
What is one key takeaway from the Bootcamp that you will carry forward?
Caroline: “While there are many learnings that I took from the Sustainability Bootcamp, the most important one is the art of storytelling. I believe, the one thing that makes startups successful is the founder’s ability to convince people.
During the Bootcamp, I saw firsthand how powerful storytelling could be. Most teams couldn’t show any real products. However, many conveyed their visions in a way that resonated with the audience which made all the difference. It’s not just about having a great solution; it’s about communicating your vision in a way that inspires others to believe in it as much as you do!”
Ready to make a difference as a sustainable entrepreneur?
The path to impactful, sustainable entrepreneurship starts here. ESMT’s Master in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (MIE) program is designed to empower you to tackle global challenges with innovative solutions. With practical initiatives like the Sustainability Bootcamp, you’ll gain the expertise and confidence to drive meaningful change in the world.
Take the next step toward becoming a changemaker and shaping the future of sustainable business.
Learn more about our Master in Innovation and Entrepreneurship program
Hear about the Sustainable Bootcamp from another MIE student, Hendrik Stotz.