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CU Founder Sprint: From Discovery to Ideathon

4 May 2026

Build Your First Startup with Global Mentors

 

In partnership with global venture capital accelerator 2080 Ventures and Angel Investor Network Georgia – Axel, the Caucasus University Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center is launching a 2-stage CU Founder Sprint for students. A unique opportunity to go from idea → validated concept → real startup pathway.

 

This is more than just an ideathon. This is your entry point into the GITA’s Innovative Startup Acceleration Program 2026, implemented in Georgia by 2080 Ventures, with Founder Institute, Startup Büro. 

 

Learn from Global & Local Mentors

 

Throughout the program, you will work with international and local startup experts, including:

 

  • Timur Daudpota -  Founding Partner at 2080 Ventures, who has worked with early-stage founders across multiple markets
  • Sun Choi - Founding Partner at 2080 Ventures, Angel investor, cross-border acceleration leader
  • Nato Chakvetadze - A startup ecosystem builder, program leader, and mentor 
  • Davit Tsitsko - a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and strategic partner with 15+ years of experience across technology, energy, and investment. 
  • Irakli Svanidze - Ecosystem Enabler, Startup Mentor, Acting Head of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at CU
  • Ketevan Khuntsaria - Entrepreneur and a  member of Axel’s Investment Board, actively involved in startup evaluation and investment decisions. 
  • Ia Tsulaia - An active angel investor at Axel and a startup mentor, with extensive experience supporting early-stage ventures.
  • Tekla Gugushvili - Project Manager at Axel, working closely with startups and investment processes.

 

This means direct exposure to people who build, invest in, and scale startups globally.

 

Stage 1 : Online Founder Sprint

 

You will learn how to:

 

  • think like a founder
  • identify real, high-value problems
  • validate ideas with real users
  • build MVP and business model thinking

 

By the end, you’ll already have a validated problem and initial concept.

 

Stage 2: On-Campus Ideathon Experience

 

You will:

 

  • Find your co-founders through structured matching
  • Work on real-world problem challenges
  • Build a startup concept in teams
  • Pitch your idea in front of mentors & judges

 

What makes this different?This program is directly connected to the GITA acceleration pipeline, meaning:

 

  • Fast-track access to the acceleration program
  • Opportunity to receive mini-grants / prizes 
  • Access to an international network of founders & investors
  • Real experience of how startups are actually built

 

Who is this for?

 

  • Caucasus University Students who want to explore startups
  • Future founders (even without an idea) (CU affiliated) 
  • People who are looking for a team and real opportunities (CU affiliated) 

 

No idea required. Just curiosity and drive.

Timeline: May 4-22 (Online Sessions; Ideathon)  

 

Limited spots available - Apply now and take your first step into the startup world.

 

Apply here: https://forms.gle/i5yRMPAQCzY8oddE9 

 

Registration Deadline: April 30, 2026