Becoming a co-author of Business Academy

Quite a few years ago, Guntis Coders asked me if I could help with a programming for then the idea stage noname edu startup. I said yes sure. Of course, after lending a helping hand, Guntis took the whole arm.

After that, he reached out again saying that, well, Ventspils Augstskola / Ventspils University of Applied Sciences was launching a startup management undergrad program, Business Academy, now Startup Management by Ventspils University, and I should help with a content for the courses.

Back then, I was just ending my super parttime involvement with Biznesa augstskola Turība with an elective marketing course. A bit hesitating, I still said yes sure, and got to work. My prior experience as a student in Stanford University's Tech Entrepreneurship program and as a startup coach at Alchemist Accelerator in the hashtag#SiliconValley ecosystem helped a lot. Then, Mr. Coders reached out again saying he needs someone to deliver at least some of the courses. The format was not that much into traditional lectures, rather, it was a kickoff, materials, guidance, and as many real business life insights and content as possible. I said yes and got to inviting guests - locally and remotely.

Fast forward, I am no longer involved with the program, but I am sooo delighted to see BA / SUM alumni and students becoming impactful contributors to the innovation ecosystem in Latvia, the Baltic countries and beyond. In just a few years, the program's alumni have become lead innovation consultants and experts, CCOs, COOs, CMOs, founders, managers, and more - at celebrated scaleups, tech conferences, and larger companies. Whenever I visit an event in the region, I have the pleasure of meeting not just one, but several of the former students and seeing how they have grown. I can see that the society is changing and transforming into a real, functioning ecosystem, thanks to their collaborative and open-minded spirit.

Have a great start to the new school year, everyone!