Transforming an idea into a business may seem complicated, but with planning and organization, it is possible to structure projects that make a difference. Junior companies play an essential role in this process by connecting academic knowledge with real market demands and supporting young entrepreneurs in their first steps.
These organizations, managed by university students, offer services such as market research, strategic planning, and technological solution development. With more than 1,450 companies spread across Brazil, they carried out 24,000 projects in 2024, according to Brasil Júnior, the federation that coordinates the movement.
Elias Gabriel, Executive President of Brasil Júnior, explains how those who want to start a business can be inspired by the junior enterprise model and follow fundamental steps to transform ideas into reality:
- Structure the ideaEvery business begins with a clear purpose. Identify the problem you want to solve, who will benefit, and how your solution can work. These responses help guide the next steps and align expectations.
- Understanding the marketResearch the competitors and the needs of the audience you want to serve. This analysis allows creating a competitive advantage and adjusting the model to meet the real demands of the market.
- Seek specialized supportHaving guidance makes all the difference at the beginning. Junior companies, formed by university students, offer affordable consulting services that help entrepreneurs validate their ideas. These organizations operate within universities, connecting academic learning with market challenges.
- Test and adjustBefore investing significant resources, test your idea on a smaller scale and gather feedback. This stage allows for correcting flaws and refining the proposal, which increases the chances of success. In addition to supporting entrepreneurs, junior companies prepare students for the job market. It is a two-way street. Entrepreneurs receive affordable and quality solutions, while students apply their knowledge to real projects, develop practical skills, and become better prepared for the job market.