Nico Prepeluh is an impressive example of how students can lay the foundation for a successful entrepreneurial future while still studying. As a student in the English-language bachelor degree programme StartUp Management, he combines solid business knowledge with practical application and continuously expands his network.
Nico’s decision to study at IMC Krems was no coincidence – here, he found the perfect mix of theory, practice, and international exchange. The strong practical focus, numerous networking opportunities, and close collaboration with the business world provide aspiring entrepreneurs with a solid foundation to develop and implement their own projects.
Through his studies, Nico not only gained an understanding of modern business models but also the courage to take action. In 2024, he co-founded the Innovation Circle – Association for Future Dialogue, a non-partisan and cross-industry organisation that brings together young people aged 18 to 35 to discuss Europe’s major future challenges. The platform focuses on interactive discussion formats, fostering open exchange and creative solutions.
What makes the Innovation Circle unique is its emphasis on constructive dialogue in an increasingly polarised world. Nico brings together passionate young talents from politics, business, science, media, and civil society – across party lines. The goal is to foster a new awareness of shared European values and to inspire young people to take responsibility for societal change.
Nico sees himself as a political changemaker of a new generation: pragmatic, solution-oriented, and future-focused. Even in school, he took on leadership roles in Austria’s student representation and gained early experience in civic engagement. Today, with the Innovation Circle, he pursues a vision of an open and interconnected Europe – demonstrating how young people can actively shape political discourse.
Studying StartUp Management at IMC Krems has significantly broadened my view of entrepreneurship. The strong practical focus has helped me connect entrepreneurial thinking with concrete tools and methods. Through regular exchanges with fellow students, lecturers, and experts, I have not only acquired professional skills but also gained new perspectives on leadership and innovation.
I firmly believe that many young people are willing to engage with societal issues – they just need the right framework. With the Innovation Circle, we create this space: open, interactive, and at eye level. Our Fishbowl format fosters genuine dialogue between young talents and decision-makers. This makes complex topics more tangible and encourages participation instead of passive listening – which is exactly what a vibrant democracy needs.
Networking is essential for me. If you have big ambitions, it’s crucial that the right people become aware of your initiative. The stronger and more renowned our partners are, the greater the interest in our events. This allows us to gain diverse perspectives, reach more people, and better achieve our core goal: strengthening political dialogue and enabling constructive discussions.
Although my daily routine is certainly more intense than that of many traditional students, I truly appreciate the moments when I can relax with friends – without discussing work or politics. My favourite way to unwind is with a cold drink in a park somewhere in Vienna. Strength training is also an important way for me to clear my mind and recharge.