How can you tell whether a business idea has real potential? The best answers are often found not in textbooks, but through direct interaction with people. This is exactly what 38 secondary school pupils from the Moravian-Silesian Region and other parts of the Czech Republic experienced during this year’s Validation Camp, organised by the Moravian-Silesian Technology Academy in cooperation with ČSOB Start it and the Moravian-Silesian Innovation Centre (MSIC).
From the First Idea to Real-World Market Validation
Entrepreneurship is not just about starting a company. It is primarily about recognising opportunities, solving problems and having the courage to turn ideas into reality.
On 13, 14 and 20 October 2026, 38 pupils working in 11 interdisciplinary teams had the opportunity to put these skills into practice. Using the Lean Canvas business modelling tool, they learned how to define their value proposition, identify target customers and explore sales channels.
But the learning went far beyond the classroom. Participants went out into the field, interviewed potential customers and used real feedback to validate whether their ideas addressed genuine market needs.
Three Business Ideas That Stood Out
The final presentations showcased a diverse range of business solutions, from digital applications and services to creative projects.
First place went to JE Production, a team from the Secondary Technical School of Civil Engineering in Havířov. The team is already helping businesses improve their marketing, create videos and build their presence on social media.
Second place was awarded to Linkora, a team from Bruntál that developed the concept of an application connecting customers with skilled tradespeople, supported by an AI chatbot designed to process customer enquiries.
Third place went to Didakťáky, a team from the Business Academy in Ostrava-Poruba. Their application, didakťáky.app, helps pupils prepare for secondary school entrance examinations directly from their mobile phones.
Experiences That Go Beyond the Classroom
Although only three teams received awards, the greatest value of Validation Camp was the experience gained by every participant. They learned to identify real-world problems, communicate with customers, collaborate in teams and confidently present and defend their ideas.
These skills are valuable not only for future entrepreneurs, but for anyone who wants to turn ideas into meaningful opportunities. Supporting their development is one of the key objectives of the Moravian-Silesian Technology Academy.
