As a university student, it’s hard enough to balance school work with extracurricular activities. So when you add launching a startup with managing everything you need to get done in the run of a semester, things can become overwhelming quickly.

Even the most ambitious students struggle.

Students often lack free time, money and experience, but that doesn’t mean starting a business is out of the question.

Here are some tips to increase your chances of launching a successful startup while a student.

Get Organized

Developing and maintaining organizational skills will make your life as a student and entrepreneur easier – much easier.

Being organized helps with time management, setting and achieving goals, as well as increases productivity and overall focus.

The ability to manage your time effectively is an invaluable tool and is extremely rewarding in the long run.

“The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”
– Stephen Covey

So, whether it’s a unique app or a simple pen and paper, find what works to keep you organized. Check out this article by Business Insider to learn what 12 successful entrepreneurs shared as their favourite tools to stay organized.  

Leverage Resources

A benefit to starting a business while in university is the available resources on campus.

Many startups spend a lot of time and money collecting research. As a student, you have access to a library filled with books, journals, and online research networks.

Depending on the university, it’s likely you also have access to science labs, sporting equipment, and a photography/videography studio as well as equipment.

If you’re attending university in Nova Scotia, check out the Nova Scotia Sandbox Project.

Sandboxes are collaborative spaces hosted by universities and Nova Scotia Community Colleges that bring together students, mentors and external advisors to help bring concepts and ideas to life.

Make Connections

Join campus societies and extracurricular activities like Enactus to network and develop connections. Who knows, you might find your co-founder or potential team members.

Your professors also serve as a great resource. They are an expert in their field and many of them enjoy helping their students and seeing them succeed. By leveraging your relationship with your professors, you can gain solid advice, knowledge and maybe even an advisor for your startup

Join our Community of Innovators

Launching a startup will be tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. Volta’s Network Membership program was recently revamped with the intention of creating a highly engaged community of innovators. Perks of being a Network Member include access to our co-working space, programs, and networking events.

Think Network Membership might be for you? Learn more here.

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