Three questions for Dr. Ferran Giones Valls

1. Please introduce yourself and your current job briefly.

I am the Deputy Institute Director at the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Science (ENI). At the ENI institute we do research and also contribute to more entrepreneurship and scientific innovation at our university.

2. How did you get involved in entrepreneurship?

After working in consulting and project management, I founded a small company combining my hobby (endurance sports) and marketing (online marketing & sponsorship management). Since I was doing my PhD at the same time, it was a bit intense, but it helped me to understand the challenges entrepreneurs face and how plans do not always work.

3. What tip would you give to students thinking about founding a company, or who have already taken their first steps?

Define your value proposition in terms of what actually interests (and motivates) you. Be willing to "pivot". Build your network and engage with it (involve them in your project, early on). Be ready for rejections and negative feedback. This is part of the market discovery process.