- The National Library Board and BlackStorm Group hosted a two-day Entrepreneurship Bootcamp, training aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills. Participants enjoyed insights from seasoned entrepreneurs, including an introduction to STARTUPSTORM.
June 8-9, 2024: An event hosted by the National Library Board, led by Mr. Paddy Tan, Ms. Jeslin Bay, Ms. Doris De Souza, and Mr. Andrew Crombie, equipped aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills and insights. The bootcamp attracted a diverse group of enthusiastic participants eager to start their business journeys.
Day 1 Recap: A Deep Dive into Entrepreneurial Essentials
The first day of the bootcamp began with a networking session, followed by an icebreaker activity that introduced participants to the entrepreneurial mindset.
In our first workshop on entrepreneurship, we delved into the core principles driving entrepreneurial endeavors and explored what it truly means to be an entrepreneur. We discussed both the benefits, such as flexibility and financial potential, and the challenges, including financial risks and time demands. Participants also examined real-world case studies of business successes and failures in Singapore, providing valuable lessons on strategic and market impacts. The session concluded with an interactive group activity where participants identified and discussed various business types, gaining insights into different approaches and industries.
Figure: Participants were participating in the group activity led by Doris.
Figure: Paddy was wrapping up the workshop.
In the second workshop, we focused on developing and refining business ideas by first teaching participants how to identify business opportunities through emerging trends and market gaps. We then explored discovering user opportunities, emphasising the importance of understanding user needs to generate effective business ideas. Techniques for assessing market potential were covered, including feasibility analysis, competitive research, and growth projections. The workshop concluded with a session on validating and refining ideas, where participants learned about feedback loops and iterative processes to continuously improve their concepts based on real-world insights.
Figure: Andrew was sharing some techniques to generate business ideas. 
Figure: Jeslin Bay, Group CEO of BlackStorm Consulting shared the journey and story of STARTUPSTORM, providing real-life insights into the challenges and successes of starting and growing a business.
The day concluded with a presentation from the National Library Board team, who shared insights into the extensive resources available to members. Their discussion highlighted how these resources can support and enhance participants’ entrepreneurial journeys, offering valuable tools and information for their ventures.
Figure: National Library Board’s team member was sharing about some available resources.
Day 2 Recap: Practical Application and Expert Insights
The following day started with a reflection on the lessons from Day 1, leading to a workshop on building a business model, where the Business Model Canvas and its application were thoroughly covered.
Participants had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas, receiving constructive feedback to refine their proposals.
Figures: Participants were sharing their business ideas to their fellow programme mates.
The highlight of Day 2 was a session by guest speaker Mr. Lee Keng Leong who provided in-depth insights on initiating, running, and successfully exiting a business – BumBox.
Figure: Keng Leong was sharing his entrepreneurial journey.
This was complemented by a panel discussion featuring entrepreneurs like Ms. Joanne Chong, Mr. Desmond Pang, and Mr. Shaun Markus Lee, who shared practical tips and personal experiences, enriching the learning experience.
Figure (from left to right): Jeslin (moderator), Keng Leong, Joanne, Shaun and Desmond, speaking at a panel discussion on the topic of “Navigating the Entrepeneurial Journey.”
The bootcamp concluded with a final debrief, an engaging photo session, and extended networking opportunities, allowing participants to solidify the connections they had made.
One participant remarked on the value of the bootcamp, noting:
“The practical advice and real-world examples provided were not only informative but also highly motivating. I really appreciate the no-holds-barred approach where the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur were highlighted—not every day is hunky-dory. I have a clearer perspective on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and I feel better equipped to embark on my own journey. While I doubt I’ll come up with something outstanding immediately, I reckon I can offer consulting services based on my experience in the construction sector and in dispute prevention.”
We’re excited to continue supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and look forward to offering more opportunities for growth and learning in the future. Stay tuned for upcoming events and workshops designed to further empower your entrepreneurial journey at STARTUPSTORM.
Figure (from left to right): Paddy, Jeslin, Doris, and Andrew.
About BlackStorm Consulting
BlackStorm Consulting (https://blackstormco.asia/), a trailblazing force in business consultancy, stands at the forefront of empowering businesses across Southeast Asia, with a stronghold in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Our expertise lies in corporate strategy and market entry, closing strategic gaps that impede companies from reaching their full potential. We elevate businesses by applying a multi-faceted approach across three crucial layers: people, product, and process.
About National Library Board
The National Library Board (https://www.nlb.gov.sg/) oversees the development of public libraries, the National Library, and the National Archives of Singapore. Through a vast collection of resources and diverse programs, NLB fosters knowledge and preserves Singapore’s documentary heritage for public access and enrichment.
CHECK OUT LAUNCH BY NATIONAL LIBRARY BOARD
At Launch, the Business Resource Centre at the National Library Board, we want to make it easier for aspiring entrepreneurs, microbusinesses and working adults to explore new opportunities to launch the next phase of your professional growth.
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