What Is the Hungarian Startup University Program?
The Hungarian Startup University Program (HSUP) is a dedicated initiative housed within the University of Dunaújváros (UoD) that has been active since 2021. It provides a structured, industry‑aligned curriculum that brings together university students and aspiring entrepreneurs within a supportive academic ecosystem. By integrating coursework, mentorship and real‑world project work, HSUP equips participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to launch a viable startup.
Program Structure
HSUP offers a blended learning experience that covers:
- Core Courses: Design thinking, business model canvas, product development, marketing fundamentals and finance for startups.
- Project Labs: Teams work on a live business idea from conception to prototype and market testing.
- Mentorship: Experienced alumni, industry experts and faculty members provide one‑on‑one guidance.
- Pitch Sessions: Regular events where groups present to investors and receive constructive feedback.
Target Students
HSUP is open to all UoD undergraduates, regardless of major, who show interest in entrepreneurship. In the last five years, more than 400 students have registered and 23 projects have been successfully completed.
How HSUP Adds Value to Students
Curriculum Highlights
The program’s curriculum is delivered in English, making it accessible to a broader student body. Modules focus on skills that are essential for startups, such as:
- Rapid prototyping and minimum viable product (MVP) strategy.
- Digital marketing and customer acquisition.
- Fundraising basics including pitch deck creation and investor communication.
- Legal and regulatory considerations for tech startups in Hungary.
Real‑World Exposure
Teams collaborate with local companies for user testing, and the university hosts monthly innovation challenges. Successful projects often receive seed funding from university‑backed venture funds or Hungarian innovation grants.
Networking Opportunities
Students gain direct contact with a network that includes:
- Local start‑up founders.
- Investment firms and angel investors.
- Industry partners looking for graduates with entrepreneurial skill sets.
These connections significantly improve employment prospects or provide the launchpad for an independent venture.
Success Stories – 23 Projects, 400+ Participants
HSUP’s track record speaks for itself. Some notable outcomes include:
- “Eco‑Carb,” a sustainable packaging solution, secured a €50,000 seed investment and entered the EU Green Tech accelerator program.
- “HealthNet,” a tele‑medicine platform, partnered with a regional hospital to pilot its service in Dunaújváros.
- “AgriSync,” a precision agriculture tool, received a national innovation award and attracted a 3‑year development grant.
These cases illustrate the tangible impact of HSUP on student projects and the local economy.
How to Join HSUP
Registration Process
Prospective participants should look for the course in the Neptun system and register by the deadline. The current cycle opens for registration until 12:00 p.m. on August 26, 2025. Students can search for “Hungarian Startup University” or the acronym HSUP in the course catalog.
Eligibility and Pre‑requisites
- Enrollment in any UoD undergraduate programme.
- Demonstrated interest in entrepreneurship (e.g., participation in a past hackathon or business competition).
- Basic competency in English to ensure full access to the curriculum.
Timing and Schedule
The program runs concurrently with the academic semester. It consists of weekly lectures, one‑on‑one mentorship, and a final sprint culminating in a pitch event.
Supporting Resources on Campus
In‑University Support
HSUP beneficiaries enjoy additional backing from UoD’s:
- Library: Access to databases and literature on entrepreneurship and technology.
- Office 365 & Microsoft Software: Tools for design, communication and project management.
- Accommodations and Living Costs: Guidance on housing options and budgeting for students.
- Mentor Teacher System: Early‑stage coaching from faculty with industry experience.
Future Prospects – Career Paths Post‑HSUP
Startup Roles and Beyond
Graduates of HSUP often move into roles such as:
- Product Manager or Technical Lead in tech companies.
- Entrepreneur‑in‑Residence positions at venture incubators.
- Consultancy roles focusing on business strategy for SMEs.
Access to European Funding
HSUP graduates can leverage European Union programmes like Horizon Europe or COSME for funding their ventures, which reduces the financial risk associated with early‑stage development.
Next Steps
Are you ready to transform your university experience into a real‑world startup? Begin by exploring the regulation documents and the bank information provided on the University Portal. If you’re interested in learning more before you decide, you can read the full UoD‑HSUP Starupper Magazine to see what past participants have achieved.
Apply now for the upcoming HSUP semester through the Neptun system before the deadline and secure your place in a program that has already produced dozens of successful ventures. Visit the application page for more details.
If you have questions or need guidance, email the international office or schedule a call with the HSUP coordinator. Share your thoughts or stories in the comments section below to inspire fellow students. Keep exploring related articles on entrepreneurship and innovation through our news archive.
Start your journey from classroom to startup today.
