On 27 June, the 2026 GI Challenge entrepreneurs reconvened for the first of two bootcamps where the focus shifted from developing ideas to validating them.
The day began with a reflection and progress update, before getting into the thick of developing target market research questions. The entrepreneurs put their learning so far into practice by conducting live market research, making calls to mystery shoppers representing their target audiences. These conversations provided invaluable customer feedback, allowing the entrepreneurs to test assumptions, uncover new insights and refine their products and services based on real-world perspectives.
Watching the entrepreneurs confidently engage with potential customers highlighted just how much they have already grown since Originate Day.
After finishing their market research, their attention turned to a marketing masterclass, equipping entrepreneurs with practical tools to better understand their customers and communicate the value of their ventures.
What’s next?
The momentum continues at the second bootcamp on 18 July.
This session will equip the entrepreneurs with the financial and legal knowledge required to build sustainable ventures. They’ll participate in expert-led masterclasses covering business finance, legal considerations and risk, before learning how to pitch their ideas with confidence.
These sessions will continue preparing the cohort for the next stages of the Challenge:
- 1 August: Pitch Practice
- 15 August: Pitch Day
- 2 September: Pitch Night, where this year’s finalists will showcase their ventures and compete for the 2026 GI Challenge title