Student-led startups play a strategic role in driving national economic growth. The increasing number of university-initiated businesses fosters the emergence of young entrepreneurs equipped with knowledge of business theory and applied technology. These entrepreneurs are expected to develop businesses with competitive advantages and adaptability, enabling them to continuously innovate and thrive in dynamic market conditions.

In response to this, the Behavioral Marketing Research Group (RG Pemasaran Keperilakuan) FEB UNS, in collaboration with the Business Incubation and Innovation Center (IBISMA) of Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII), organized a workshop and focus group discussion (FGD) on November 13, 2024. The event aimed to identify key success factors for student-led startups and provide recommendations to relevant stakeholders to enhance business development.

According to Dr. Ahmad Ikhwan Setiawan, S.E., M.T., Chair of the Behavioral Marketing Research Group, the low success rate of startups presents a significant challenge. He emphasized that only business models with specific characteristics can sustain themselves in an increasingly competitive environment. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Budhi Haryanto, M.M., highlighted in his presentation that scaling up a startup requires technological excellence, strong competencies, and well-structured organizational capabilities.

From the perspective of business incubation, Bagus Panuntun, S.E., MBA., an IBISMA expert, explained that the integration of student startups into the broader business ecosystem is a key determinant of their success. He introduced the penta-helix framework, which underscores the collaboration among entrepreneurs, universities, government, communities, and media in fostering a supportive startup environment.

The workshop, held at UII, was attended by 25 IBISMA-supported startups. Participants collectively agreed to establish further collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing student startups at UNS through research and community engagement programs.