At Mingachevir State University, a training session on “Academic Startup Solutions for Urban Challenges” was organized to support the innovative resolution of existing problems in the urban environment, integrate students’ academic knowledge with the startup mindset, and develop their practical project development skills. The event was conducted by the Lifelong Learning School and provided participants with an environment that combined theoretical knowledge with practical application opportunities.

During the training, participants learned to systematically analyze key urban issues, including traffic congestion, environmental challenges, efficiency of municipal services, access to public services, and urban governance. The application of the startup approach for solving these problems, the formation of innovative ideas, and the process of transforming them into real projects were thoroughly explained.

The session placed special emphasis on transforming academic knowledge into practical projects. Participants learned to work using a problem–solution model, identify user needs, structure ideas, and evaluate their implementation potential. Practical information on startup development stages, the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) approach, and project growth strategies was also provided.

In the interactive part of the training, participants worked in groups on various urban challenges, developed innovative solutions, and presented their ideas while justifying their social and economic impact. This approach significantly contributed to the development of their analytical thinking, teamwork, and creative problem-solving skills.

The “Academic Startup Solutions for Urban Challenges” training was recognized as an important educational initiative that not only ensured a more systematic approach to urban problems among participants but also encouraged them to create innovative and sustainable startup ideas applicable to real-life challenges.