Now in its second edition, the 24h Business Challenge is on its way to becoming a tradition among the independent projects led by Avenor students.

This competition challenges student teams to develop a business plan within 24 hours, based on a specific brief revealed on the day of the event. Each team’s mission is to present the most compelling plan to a jury of professionals from various industries.

The event was initiated by Ioana, a 12 Delta student with a passion for business. Together with Ana (11 Alfa) and Horia (11 Alfa), she successfully managed the event’s organization under the mentorship of Valentin Brabete, Teacher of Economics & Business Studies.

This initiative highlighted the students’ innovative and collaborative spirit, offering all participants valuable opportunities for growth and learning.

Learn more about this inspiring project directly from its organizers.

A UNITED AND INDEPENDENT TEAM

”This year, our project team brought together 20 students from grades 9 to 12, divided into four departments: event management, communication & curation, sponsorships, and marketing. Alongside Ana and Horia, I worked closely with all the volunteers, and it was exciting to see the expertise of returning team members who were part of last year’s event, as well as the enthusiasm of new teammates who joined us this year.

We maintained close communication with the department coordinators, and we believe our success was rooted in the spirit of collaboration that defines our school.

I’m especially thankful for the support of Mister Valentin, our  teacher of Economics & Business Studies , who guided us once again this year. He was always present, offering not just logistical and technical help, but also moral encouragement and valuable professional advice.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the parents in our community for their incredible support—whether as sponsors, speakers, or jury members for the competition.” shares Ioana, 12 Delta.

 

LESSONS LEARNED 

“As with any complex project, we encountered many challenges. The limited time available for organizing and the smaller team size created some pressure. At times, communication between departments was challenging, and the task flow experienced delays.

However, by maintaining clarity, prioritizing effectively, and collaborating closely, we managed to overcome all obstacles. The key lesson was that the success of a project depends on the people involved—dedicated, open-minded individuals who are willing to work together,” says Ioana, 12 Delta.

IMPACT OF THE EVENT

“Beyond the competition itself, the 24h Business Challenge provided participants with valuable learning opportunities. The workshops led by experts offered key insights into fields such as marketing, finance, and leadership. The feedback from the jury helped participants refine their ideas and improve their presentation skills. I wish I could have participated in those workshops too. 🙂

Most importantly, the event served as a true teamwork exercise. In just 24 hours, participants learned to collaborate efficiently, listen to each other, and develop their ideas collectively. The relationships built during the competition will continue to grow well after the event ends,” says Ana, 11 Alfa.

“The 24h Business Challenge wasn’t just a competition; it was an opportunity for personal and professional growth for both the participants and the organizers. We developed key business skills, learned to perform under pressure, and worked alongside experts who inspired us.

This event truly represents the spirit of the Avenor community: courage, collaboration, and a commitment to making a difference. We are proud of our achievements and excited for future editions,” says Horia, 11 Alfa.

 

 

EVENT FORMAT

Spanning 24 hours, the event brought together six teams, each consisting of three 8th and 9th-grade students. To prepare for the competition, participants took part in four workshops led by industry experts:

  • Finance, with Ioana Bucin
  • Marketing, with Mirela Pitu
  • Leadership, with Laura Dragomir
  • Sustainability and Social Impact, with Adrian Cocan

These sessions were designed to equip participants with practical tools and inspiration to develop their business ideas. Each student had the opportunity to attend two of the workshops.

This year’s edition centered on social entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on the partnership with Tășuleasa Social. Teams were challenged to transform two houses in Copșa Mică into sustainable social enterprises based on the principles of the circular economy.

The jury included:

  • Cristina Tomescu – a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in national franchises
  • Diana Segărceanu – entrepreneur and founder of Avenor College
  • Paul Burzo – lead architect of the Tășuleasa Social project

The Run Green team, made up of three 9th-grade students, stood out with their innovative proposal for the Run Green Academy and Community Workshop. These spaces would host workshops for both locals and tourists, fostering engagement with the Tășuleasa community. Their concept showcased creativity, practicality, and a strong grasp of social entrepreneurship principles.