Online Venture Challenge: connection in the time of COVID-19
This term’s Online Venture Challenge is in full swing as Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management students launch businesses in just 30 days. Three teams have created real businesses to address real problems with a timely theme: joy and connection in the time of COVID-19.
‘By dreaming up, opening and operating online stores for the benefit of their chosen charities, these five-person teams bring the academic lessons of the Lean StartUp to life, while contributing to their community”, says School of Business Assoc. Prof. Geoff Archer.
“The socially conscious aspect of these e-commerce efforts came naturally to this cohort. They were on board with that line of thinking since they started their studies on campus in the fall. In my opinion, this predisposition to kindness is part generational and partly the psychographic profile of a Royal Roads matriculant these days.
What’s remarkable about the stores we see here is that they are each doubly responsive to Covid-19. The business offerings are well thought out and in line with what people might want need or miss in a time like this. Also, the students themselves are on-campus students who are now taking this business planning class from their kitchen tables and futons. Their flexibility, positive attitudes and market insights are on full display.”
Products on offer include inspirational greeting cards (proceeds to Victoria Hospitals Foundation), a cookbook featuring recipes from some of Victoria's best restaurants (proceeds to Our Place Society) and barbecue sauce (proceeds to the Red Cedar Café, which provides meals for people in need).
The three online stores will be open until May 24.