On 7 July, 2025, more than 40 students travelled to UC Berkeley for the International Entrepreneurship and Venture Plan Development programme that emphasises entrepreneurship and innovation. Held at the prestigious Haas School of Business in the heart of Silicon Valley, this international experience equipped CityUHK MBA students with the skills to create startups, navigate venture capital, and master cutting-edge innovation strategies—all within the world’s most dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. This international trip provided the tools and know-how for students to leverage innovation and entrepreneurship in both corporate settings and open markets.
A Deep Dive into Silicon Valley’s Success Formula
The global programme began with an overview of the Lean Startup methodology and the Silicon Valley ecosystem. Through a series of workshops and seminars, students explore the Silicon Valley Model, analysing the interplay of People, Technology, Capital, and Innovation, while learning the venture capital investment cycle. The programme also covered business economics and storytelling, culminating in presentations to a panel and business plan submissions. The goal is to guide participants from idea to pitch within a short timeframe.
Key learning modules include:
• Venture Creation: Develop startup concepts from ideation to execution.
• Investor Insights: Learn to assess opportunities like a VC and identify startups with high success potential.
• Startup and Customer Discovery: Master techniques to validate market demand.
• Business Economics: Create financially sustainable ventures.
• AI & Robotics in the 2020s: Harness automation and AI-driven productivity in a post-pandemic world.
Corporate Visits & International Networking
Beyond the classroom, students visited major startups, gaining access to a powerful network of VC practitioners and startups. They were exposed to different national environments, along with the advantages, disadvantages, and challenges associated with various forms of business operations and management strategies of global organisations. These experiences provided unparalleled networking opportunities within the world’s premier innovative cluster of Silicon Valley.
From Ideation to Pitch: Real-World Application
The programme concluded with a pitch presentation, where CityUHK MBA students presented their business plans and prototypes to faculty and seasoned entrepreneurs. This hands-on experience sharpened their ability to craft compelling narratives, refine prototypes, and deliver persuasive pitches—essential skills for securing funding and launching successful ventures.
Discover more global learning experiences at CityUHK MBA:
• Innovating Through Digital Transformation in China
• Sustainable Business Strategies in Asia
• Global Brand Management at Imperial College
Download our leaflet, or schedule a one-on-one consultation to learn more about the CityUHK MBA Experiences.
