Investigating turning old shoes into quality leather belts and wallets is just one of the steps students are taking to help make the world a better place. 

Developing an online resource to support teachers is another.

Startup Dunedin runs the free Audacious programme to build entrepreneurial skills and confidence so Otago Polytechnic and University of Otago students can turn their enterprising ideas into reality.

The programme has run in various forms for 10 years and well-known businesses to emerge include PledgeMe, and Globelet, which supplies ongoing reusable systems for stadiums and events around New Zealand and Australia.

Startup Dunedin General Manager, Rachel Butler, is impressed by the students’ passion to instigate change. More than 50 per cent of Audacious projects are focused on sustainability or mental well-being.

One aspiring entrepreneur studying for his Masters in Materials Science was vexed by the many old shoes being thrown out, so he’s researching how to make them into high-end leather belts and wallets.

Meanwhile, two Norwegian exchange students are developing an online resource so teachers can share ideas and lesson plans with those beyond their immediate circles. At present, this resource is available in Norway and there are plans to launch it in New Zealand.

Read more here: https://dailyencourager.co.nz/building-entrepreneurial-skills-audaciously/