On December 11-15, within the framework of the project “Entrepreneurship Education – Pathway for Innovation, Inclusion and Quality “ funded by the Competitive Innovation Fund (Georgia I2Q Innovation, Inclusion and Quality Competitive Innovation Fund) The project partners were hosted by Samtskhe-Javakheti State University.

The purpose of the visit was to conduct a week-long innovation and entrepreneur trainer training by mentors of the George Washington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. From Caucasus University, the trainings were attended by Director of the Project Management Department – Akaki Kapanadze, Assistant of the department – Fred Kasirye, Director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship – Giorgi Burduli and Manager of IE the Center – Irakli Svanidze.

During the visit, representatives of the George Washington Innovation and Entrepreneurship office (GWOIE) shared the American experience of entrepreneurship with the project participants, discussed the concepts and relevant practices of mentorship and innovation, as well as the development of a business plan and prototype. During the 5-day training, participants had the opportunity to engage as an individual as well as in group interactive sessions and with experienced mentors, they discussed and received practical advice on cooperation with industry and the private sector and opportunities for developing the national ecosystem. GWOIE representatives have also met the SJSU students within the planned activities of the project.

The main goal of the project “Entrepreneurship Education - Pathway for Innovation, Inclusion and Quality " is to modernize higher education programs and learning environment and strengthen their connection with the labor market. Georgian universities participating in the project – Samtskhe-Javakheti State University (SJSU) and Caucasus University (CU) will develop innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities with the experience of the George Washington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, using university resources, by updating strategic goals and developing an existing network with employees.

The project is implemented with the support of the Competitive Innovation Fund (CIF), the Ministry of Education and Science and the World Bank.