MBA alumnus shares his entrepreneurial experience
28 May 2012
While studying at Imperial College Business School, budding entrepreneur Karl Harder came up with the idea for Abundance, an investment company that enables communities and individuals to invest directly in renewable energy projects across the UK and share in the benefits.
Having recently launched the company, after three and half years spent setting it up, Mr Harder returned to campus for the Imperial Festival on 12 May. He and fellow alumni who have also gone on to start their own businesses, shared their experiences with staff, students and the public.
While studying for his MBA, Karl pitched his idea to Imperial’s Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Design projects programme and it was accepted. The programme gave him the structure to explore and develop the concept, as well as a team of people to work with.
Since launching Abundance, the company raised £135,000 in four days, with over 1,000 people signing up. It has attracted a wide range of investors with one person investing a lump sum of £20,000 and another who gave the investments as gifts to other people.
Speaking to Reporter about his tips for budding entrepreneurs, Karl said: “Nothing is impossible and don’t give up. When you come across a problem, there will always be a way round it, just take your time and work it out. Don’t be afraid of asking questions, no matter how stupid they seem. Always recruit the very best people you can – this is the only area you should never compromise on.”
— Tanya Gubbay, Communications and Development
Tags: Business School, Festival 2012
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