MBA Inspirational Safari: Discovering Innovation in Aarhus

Our recent MBA Inspirational Safari to Aarhus was an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impact. Over the three days, together with our MBA Students of 15th and 16th Cohort, immersed ourselves in innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial thinking, which not only broadened our horizons but also inspired us to rethink how business, education, and community engagement can be harmoniously blended. Each day was packed with lessons that encouraged us to unlearn old ways, embrace new perspectives, and cultivate participatory and entrepreneurial mindsets.

Day 1: A New Era of Civic Engagement at Dokk 1

Our journey began at Dokk 1, a modern library and community center that stands as a model of how civic spaces can be transformed into hubs of innovation. We were inspired by the openness of the space and the trust it fosters among its users, with transparent rules and easy access to information. During our visit, Bo Fristed and Jesper Algren from the Centre of Innovation in Aarhus, along with Louise Overgaard from Coding Pirates, highlighted how Dokk 1 serves as more than just a library. It’s a place where technology, creativity, and education converge to meet the needs of a community.

This visit emphasized the power of participatory approaches in driving community engagement. Whether it was the cutting-edge Coding Pirates program teaching children to code or the city’s digitalization strategies, we learned that fostering an innovative mindset is critical to modern education, business, and society development. Importantly, Dokk 1’s role in enabling collaboration across different sectors demonstrates how public spaces can serve as platforms for shared learning and creativity.

On the first day, in the end we visited KAOS Pilot, where we were introduced to a unique and innovative approach to education. Federico Bortoletto shared how this alternative school fosters creative leadership and entrepreneurship through experiential learning. The program focuses on equipping students with practical skills in navigating complex, real-world challenges, whether in business, social initiatives, or community projects. We were deeply inspired by how KAOS Pilot encourages risk-taking, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, offering a fresh perspective on how education can drive both personal and professional growth. This visit reinforced the idea that innovation thrives when learning is hands-on and deeply rooted in societal impact.

Day 2: Entrepreneurship and Sustainability in the Clouds

Day two was themed around entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on sustainability. Despite a day filled with clouds — both literal and figurative — we continued our exploration undeterred, starting with a visit to Aarhus and the ultramodern Aarhus Eye. This remarkable structure not only offers stunning views of the city but also symbolizes how architecture can inspire urban development and serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainable development goals.

Our afternoon visit to The Kitchen, Aarhus University’s startup hub, was a highlight of the day. Here, we met with Vegar Lein Ausrød and Ellen Kobberø, who shared insights on how the hub is transforming ideas into successful businesses. What struck us most was the fusion of entrepreneurship with social responsibility. From creative startups to discussions around sustainable fashion led by Adriënne Heijnen and Marianne Ping Huang, we saw firsthand how entrepreneurship in Aarhus is strongly tied to solving real-world challenges.

A standout lesson from the day was learning that artists and entrepreneurs are, in many ways, very similar. Both groups must navigate challenges, build networks, and develop business acumen while staying true to their creative or innovative visions. This blending of artistic and entrepreneurial spirit left us all inspired to think more broadly about the impact of our own ventures.

Day 3: Creativity and Culture Shaping Business

Our final day in Aarhus shifted our focus toward creativity and how culture acts as a driver for both business and city development. The day began at Sydhavnen, where a tour by Sarah Jarsbro gave us a glimpse into how art and entrepreneurship intertwine in this revitalized district. What was once an old slaughterhouse has been transformed into a vibrant space full of life, art, and innovation—a reminder that sometimes the most unlikely spaces can become centers of creativity.

The visit to Institut for X further underscored the importance of grassroots creativity in urban development. Sofie Bach shared the history of this initiative, which started as a temporary project and has since become a permanent fixture in the city’s creative landscape. We were particularly inspired by how Institut for X encourages creative expression while fostering entrepreneurial ventures, offering a blueprint for how other cities could support their own creative communities.
Our time at Rainbow Panorama at ARoS Museum offered us a literal and figurative change in perspective. Walking through the colorful, circular structure reminded us of the power of shifting one’s viewpoint to see new possibilities, a metaphor that resonated deeply with us after three days of learning, networking, and reflection.

A Learning Experience Beyond Expectations

This Inspirational Safari was more than just a series of visits. It was a journey of unlearning old patterns and embracing new, innovative ways of thinking. Aarhus showed us that business, education, and civic life are deeply interconnected, and that the future belongs to those who can work across disciplines and sectors with creativity, openness, and a commitment to sustainability. We also learned that entrepreneurship is not just about business—it’s about community, creativity, and creating value that transcends financial gain.

As we reflect on these three days, we are grateful for the opportunities to meet with incredible leaders and innovators. We return home not only with new ideas but also with the inspiration to drive meaningful change in our own communities and businesses.

We would like to thank our hosts and speakers: Bo Fristed, Jesper Algren, Louise Overgaard, Federico Bortoletto, Vegar Lein Ausrød, Ellen Kobberø, Line Bech Sørensen, Adriënne Heijnen, Marianne Ping Huang, Sarah Jarsbro, Trine Sorensen, Sofie Bach, and Kristian Harbo Jeppesen. Their insights and hospitality made this journey truly transformative.

Finally, a special thank you to the participants from MBA cohorts 15 and 16 from Gdańsk University of Technology for their engagement, curiosity, and collaborative spirit. This Safari was as much about shared learning as it was about individual inspiration, and it would not have been the same without this amazing group. We hope for many more Inspirational Safaris in the future!