As part of the innovative INVEST Joint Staff Training Initiative organized by Bicocca, Karelia UAS, URCA, a second key moment in the programme is just around the corner: the online webinar “The Art and Science of Pitching”, hosted by Karelia University of Applied Sciences on Monday, 19 May 2025.
This interactive training, open to staff members from all INVEST partner universities, builds on the momentum of the first in-person week held in Reims and continues the blended learning structure of the initiative. With a focus on practical skills and strategic thinking, the session aims to strengthen participants' ability to communicate the value of INVEST activities in a compelling and engaging way.
When: 19 May 2025
Time: 11:00–12:30 CET / 12:00–13:30 EET
Where: Online, via Microsoft Teams
Register here: Webinar Registration Link
The webinar will be recorded.
Why Pitching Matters in Higher Education
Titled “The Art and Science of Pitching”, the session explores how to present ideas clearly, concisely, and persuasively—an essential skill for anyone looking to promote projects, attract collaborators, or engage diverse audiences.
Led by Heikki Immonen, Principal Lecturer of Entrepreneurship at Karelia UAS, the webinar will combine expert insights, real-world examples, and collaborative group work. The goal? Equip participants with tools to effectively raise awareness, generate interest, and drive participation in INVEST initiatives.
Webinar Highlights and Agenda
Understanding the Customer Need in INVEST Activities
- The Want-Problem Model;
- Functional, social, and emotional drivers of engagement
Marketing & Sales Funnel Strategies Applied to Academia
- From awareness to delivery: guiding the audience journey;
- Evaluating impact through conversion and cost-effectiveness
Behavioral Change as a Communication Strategy
- Fogg’s Behavior Model: motivation, ability, trigger;
- Temporal Motivation Theory for long-term engagement
The Power of the Unspoken
- How body language and subconscious cues influence perception
Hands-On Group Work
- Apply the concepts in practice and receive feedback
This session is an excellent opportunity for university staff to gain practical tools to advocate for internationalisation efforts, promote new programmes, and contribute actively to INVEST’s growing community.
The INVEST Joint Staff Training Initiative will conclude with a final in-person week at the University of Milano-Bicocca (UNIMIB) from 3 to 6 June 2025, focusing on joint programme implementation, enrolment, and student support mechanisms.