Sixty middle and high school students from across Ulsan gathered at UNIST to experience the startup process firsthand—from identifying problems and testing ideas to pitching business concepts. 

Held on June 20–21 at the UNIST University-Industry Cooperation Building, the Level-Up School Startup Idea Boot Camp offered students a hands-on introduction to entrepreneurship through workshops, mentoring, and team-based projects. The program was jointly organized by UNIST and the Ulsan Metropolitan Office of Education.

Rather than beginning with business plans, students started by identifying real-world problems. Working in teams, they examined everyday challenges, identified potential customers, evaluated existing solutions, and refined their ideas based on market needs.

Generative AI tools were used throughout the program to conduct market research, compare competing products and services, and strengthen business concepts. Participants also used the technology to refine presentations and communicate their ideas more effectively.

Students then organized their ideas using a Lean Canvas model, outlining customer needs, proposed solutions, revenue models, and competitive advantages. Entrepreneurship mentors provided feedback on market potential, business strategy, and areas for improvement.

The boot camp concluded with the 'L Series Ideathon ,' where teams delivered three-minute investor-style pitches and received feedback from entrepreneurship experts.

The program also served as preparation for the Korea Youth Entrepreneurship Competition, giving students experience in idea development, market research, business planning, and pitching.

“Students had the opportunity to see how AI and entrepreneurship can come together to create new value,” said Director Youngsik Kim of University-Industry Relations at UNIST. “We hope experiences like this encourage young people to explore entrepreneurship and develop the skills needed to bring new ideas to life.”