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SHSID Entrepreneur Challenge

June 12, 2026

  

Recently, the 2026 SHSID Entrepreneur Challenge has drawn to a successful conclusion after thorough preparations and multiple rounds of selection. Centered on AI empowerment, interdisciplinary integration and hands-on entrepreneurship, this event mainly involves economics students, aiming to foster participants’ entrepreneurial thinking and AI competency.


Focused on interdisciplinary entrepreneurial practice, the competition encourages students to integrate knowledge across science, humanities, business and other fields. This year, it places a strong focus on the practical application of artificial intelligence in business models. Participants either adopted AI to optimize operational systems or developed products and services powered by AI as the core. The competition guides students to design solutions for real-world problems, build business frameworks, and experience the full workflow of professional entrepreneurs.


Economics teachers hope to convey a core message to students through this activity: entrepreneurship is far more than just creative ideas. It embodies careful observation of daily life, identification of genuine market demands, willingness to take responsibility, and the drive to create social value. In the AI era, entrepreneurs should also explore how to leverage technology to make products smarter, services more efficient and solutions more impactful.




Preparations for the challenge began back in the winter vacation. Students formed teams and brainstormed ideas during the break. After finalizing initial concepts, each team conducted market research targeting real-life pain points, explored combinations between scientific principles and product design, and formulated plans in accordance with the two designated AI tracks.


At the start of the new semester, a total of 26 student teams took part in the first round. They completed business proposals and delivered formal pitch presentations as required.



Following rigorous evaluation, 14 teams advanced to the second round — the lunchtime elevator pitch session. On site, contestants enthusiastically presented their business ideas to passing teachers and fellow students, who voted actively for their favorite projects. The event finally announced the most popular team and the qualifiers for the grand final.


 

On the MIX Day, four outstanding teams delivered well-prepared pitches to judges and the audience. They confidently showcased project highlights, elaborated on the logic of AI application, market advantages and development plans, and responded to judges’ questions with poise, demonstrating solid academic knowledge and excellent on-the-spot adaptability.



The 2026 SHSID Entrepreneur Challenge is more than a competition; it is an immersive practical learning experience. Combining learning with competition and empowering students through innovation, it helps learners break the limits of textbooks and integrate interdisciplinary expertise with cutting-edge AI technologies. Students gained in-depth understanding of entrepreneurship and polished their comprehensive capabilities throughout the practice.


Moving forward, the economics department will continue to organize such events and build diverse practical platforms. We strive to nurture more young innovative talents equipped with scientific literacy and entrepreneurial spirit to thrive in the AI age.



(Written/Pictures by Social Sciences Department    Reviewed by Ying Gu, Chenli Shen)