On October 10, a focus session titled "Young People as a Key Factor in Solving Technological Challenges" took place at the Boiling Point of Altai State University as part of the Business Innovators: Altai-Asia acceleration program.
The session brought together students currently working on their own technology startups and experts such as Stanislav Tatarintsev, Director of the “My Business” Center; Sergey Khlestkiy, Director of the Barnaul Municipal Procurement Center; and Dmitry Zvonov, mentor of the Terra entrepreneurship business community. The event aimed to deepen students’ understanding of technological leadership and their role in driving innovation.
Alina Bushueva, Head of the Youth Policy and Educational Activities Department at Altai State University and Depaertment of the Youth Parliament of Altai Krai, opened the session:
"Today, achieving technological leadership is one of Russia’s national priorities. It means the ability of a country or company to develop and implement advanced technologies faster and more efficiently than competitors, set trends, and gain economic advantages. Our acceleration program, Business Innovators: Altai-Asia, is designed to teach you, young professionals, how to create innovations that will ensure our country’s security and competitiveness."
Stanislav Tatarintsev introduced the participants to the "My Business" Center and the support it offers young entrepreneurs:
"Our center provides government support for businesses, and all our services are free for visitors, including educational events. We assist both entrepreneurs and individuals: if you are just starting a business and need advice on tax systems or business ideas, you can consult our specialists. We also offer a specialized educational program for entrepreneurs; the next training session starts next month. You can find detailed information about our events and government business support measures on our website and social media. Don’t hesitate to try, find balance, improve your financial literacy, and we will assist you."
Dmitry Zvonov, mentor at the Terra entrepreneurship community, shared his insights:
"Young people have countless opportunities for growth! Can you drive? You can prepare a business plan, apply for social support, get 300,000 rubles for a car, and become a delivery entrepreneur. Many say, 'We’re students; we don’t have money to start a business.' Another option is to work as a trainer or teacher and get paid. When asked how to identify an entrepreneur, I recall the COVID period when mask shortages began. People wanted to start mask production. I ask what's stopping them. They hesitated because they needed the technology and sewing skills. Well, they won't succeed. Some friends of mine have sewing machines, fabric scraps, and elastic bands – they started sewing and selling masks, improving designs as they went. That’s entrepreneurial spirit. Any business can be started and grown as long as you have a clear goal."
Sergey Khlestkiy also expressed confidence in the natural entrepreneurial drive some possess:
"You don’t have to wait, you don't have to try to create the perfect product right away. You’re young and free from adult responsibilities like family, children, an apartment, or a car to maintain. There’s no need to fear failure or debt. Now is the time to experiment without fear of failure. You have access to a business incubator, an accelerator program at your university, and peers with whom you can create, build, and sell – learn business. Events like today’s help you network, get to know each other, and develop meaningful projects."
Following the presentations, experts answered questions about current key technological challenges. They discussed what young people should focus on when choosing or developing projects to ensure relevance and promise, the essential skills and competencies for young entrepreneurs, common mistakes, and ways to avoid them during technology and business model development.
Reminder: On October 22–23, the Business Innovators: Altai-Asia accelerator will hold an interim project selection with business experts. The top teams will progress to the second stage to continue refining their startups.