【Article by College of Commerce】
The College of Commerce at National Chengchi University (NCCUC) proudly announces the resounding success of its 2024 Global Innovation Challenge (GIC) Summer Program. This prestigious program, now in its second year, continues to set the standard for cross-cultural collaboration and business innovation, with a keen focus on the evolving digital landscape in Asia.

The intensive two-week program, held from June 24th to July 5th, welcomed a select group of graduate students from eight internationally accredited business schools.
Organized by the Office of International Programs, the GIC Summer Program offered a comprehensive and enriching experience that seamlessly blended academic rigor with cultural immersion. The program kicked off with a warm welcome from Professor Hong Yi Chen, the program director, followed by insightful presentations about NCCU and Taiwan's dynamic business landscape delivered by the International Programs Associates (IPAs).

During his welcome speech, Professor Hong-Yi Chen, GIC NCCU Program Director, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating: "Welcome to the 2024 Global Innovation Challenge Summer Program! Over the next two weeks, you will not only gain knowledge about the dynamic Asian business landscape but also forge connections with future leaders from around the world. Embrace the challenges, seize the opportunities, and together, let's shape the future of business in Digital Asia."

Themed "Advancing the Growth with Digital Asia," the GIC explored the complexities and opportunities presented by the changing economic environment in Asia, encompassing globalization, trade policies, and management accounting principles.

Participants engaged in a dynamic curriculum featuring lectures, workshops, and case studies led by esteemed faculty and industry experts. The diverse range of topics covered included technology innovation, intellectual property management, international business, business administration, management information systems, and accounting, providing students with a holistic understanding of the business landscape in the digital age.

To bridge the gap between theory and practice, the program included visits to prominent Taiwanese companies. A visit to MacroHI, a leader in sustainable hair and scalp products, highlighted the importance of environmental responsibility and social impact in the business world. Students also had the opportunity to visit La Kaffa, the parent company of the internationally acclaimed Chatime milk tea brand, gaining insights into the company's successful expansion strategies and innovative approach to customer engagement.

The GIC Summer Program went beyond the classroom, offering students a chance to immerse themselves in Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. Participants embarked on a captivating cultural tour that included visits to the historic San Domingo Fort in Tamsui, the charming Tamsui Old Street and Shilin Night Market, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and the bustling Ximending shopping district. A visit to the renowned Mr. Uncle Well Tea in Maokong offered a delightful taste of Taiwan's tea culture, while bustling night markets provided a glimpse into local life.

A highlight of the cultural immersion was a special visit to the National Palace Museum, a treasure trove of Chinese art and artifacts. Students attended a lecture on "Curating Digital Contents by Using the Cultural Technology," exploring how technology is revolutionizing the way museums preserve and share cultural heritage. A VIP tour of the museum allowed students to marvel at its priceless collection, and gain a deeper appreciation for Taiwan's rich history and artistic traditions.

A hallmark of the GIC Summer Program is its focus on real-world challenges. Students tackled a case study, developing innovative strategies to double a company's revenue by 2025. Their presentations to a panel of professors on the final day demonstrated their creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. The winning teams showcased exceptional insights and actionable recommendations, further highlighting the program's emphasis on fostering practical skills.

Professor Yenn-Ru Chen, Associate Dean for International Affairs at NCCUC, expressed her pride in the students' dedication and achievements throughout the program. "The GIC Summer Program is a testament to NCCUC's commitment to nurturing global talent and fostering innovation," she stated. "By bringing together bright minds from diverse backgrounds, we create a dynamic environment where cross-cultural collaboration thrives, and the next generation of business leaders is empowered to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital age in Asia."

A highlight for many was a welcome dinner at the iconic Din Tai Fung, renowned for its world-famous soup dumplings. The group also explored breathtaking views from the Taipei 101 observatory, a testament to the city's architectural prowess. To celebrate their successful program, a farewell dinner was held at the elegant Shin Yeh Japanese Buffet, where students savored a wide array of traditional dishes.

About the Global Innovation Challenge (GIC)
The Global Innovation Challenge (GIC) is an alliance of eight internationally accredited business schools dedicated to fostering cross-cultural collaboration and innovation. The program brings together top graduate students from around the world for an intensive summer program focused on addressing global business challenges.
For further information, please visit: https://globalinnovationchallenge.org/

【Article by College of Commerce】
The National Chengchi College of Commerce (NCCUC) through its Office of International Programs (OIP) and International Exchange Programs (IEP) successfully concluded the first session of its "Global Immersion in Asia" Summer Programs, held from May 20th to 24th at the university's campus. The program, titled "Corporate Sustainability and Financial Strategy," offered a unique blend of academic instruction, industry talks, company visits, and hands-on projects, immersing students in the dynamic world of sustainable finance and corporate social responsibility.

The program commenced on the evening of May 20th with a lively welcome reception. Students, hailing from diverse backgrounds and partner schools, had the opportunity to network and connect with each other in a welcoming environment, fostered by engaging conversations, a variety of delectable food, and presentations from International Program Ambassador’s (IPAs) about Taiwan and NCCUC. This initial event set the tone for a week of collaborative learning and cultural exchange.

Associate Dean for International Affairs in the College of Commerce Professor Yenn-Ru Chen, formally inaugurated the program. In her opening remarks, Professor Chen expressed her enthusiasm for the student’s interest in the program and the growing interest from partner schools. She highlighted the importance of student feedback in shaping and improving the program, emphasizing the value of continuous improvement through international collaboration. Professor Hong Yi Chen, the program coordinator from the Department of Finance, followed with his own welcome address. He underscored the faculty's commitment to delivering high-quality instruction and encouraged participants to actively engage in the learning process.

A key highlight of the program was the visit to Janman Precision on May 21st, a prominent Taiwanese manufacturer specializing in custom medical components and tooling. Students were given a guided tour of the company's Taoyuan factory, where they witnessed firsthand the intricate manufacturing processes and learned about Janman's dedication to quality, speed, and precision. The tour concluded with a Q&A session with company representatives, the students were provided with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the company's operations and ask questions about their sustainable practices.

The program's academic component featured engaging lectures and discussions on corporate social responsibility and sustainable development trends, the role of finance in corporate sustainability, and the growing field of sustainable investment with a social impact. These sessions were complemented by talks from industry experts, including a presentation on May 22nd by a senior representative from Amundi, a leading global asset management company. The speaker shared valuable insights into how Amundi integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into its investment decisions, offering students a practical perspective on sustainable finance in action.

On May 23rd, students participated in a thought-provoking case discussion focused on impact investing, using Credit Suisse's activities in Asia as a case study. This session delved into the complexities of balancing social and financial objectives, prompting students to consider the ethical and practical implications of sustainable investment strategies.

The program culminated on May 24th with the presentation of student mini-projects. Working in groups, participants analyzed the challenges identified during their visit to Janman and proposed innovative solutions. The presentations were attended by representatives from Janman and students of the Executive IMBA Program, providing students with valuable feedback and recognition for their efforts. The winning group was awarded a small token of appreciation, and all students received certificates of participation from Professor Chen.

In her closing remarks, Professor Chen commended the students for their dedication, enthusiasm, and active participation throughout the program. She emphasized the importance of applying the knowledge and skills gained during this immersive experience to their future academic and professional pursuits.

The "Global Immersion in Asia" Summer Program at NCCUC stands as a testament to the university's commitment to fostering global perspectives and preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. By integrating academic rigor with practical application and cultural immersion, the program equips participants with the tools they need to become future leaders in the field of sustainable finance and corporate social responsibility.

About the “Global Immersion in Asia” Summer Program
Asia is rapidly becoming a major player in the global economy, making it crucial for future business leaders to understand its unique landscape. The "Global Immersion in Asia" program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate this dynamic region, focusing on the use of technology and innovation to drive corporate success and sustainability.

About National Chengchi College of Commerce (NCCUC)
The National Chengchi College of Commerce is a leading institution for business education in Taiwan. With a strong focus on international collaboration and research, NCCUC is committed to preparing students for successful careers in the global economy.

【Article by College of Commerce】
The National Chengchi College of Commerce (NCCUC) through its Office of International Programs (OIP) recently concluded its "Global Immersion in Asia: Where Technology Meets Culture Summer Program", an academic and cultural exchange program initiative held from May 27th to 31st 2024. The intensive five-day program, hosted at the College of Commerce, welcomed a diverse cohort of international students from NCCUC Partner Schools and PIM eager to explore the dynamic intersection of advanced technology and rich cultural heritage that defines Taiwan.

Led by a team of distinguished faculty and industry experts, the program offered participants a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. The curriculum featured a diverse range of courses, delving into key topics such as leadership, investment management with big data, cultural technology, new product design, accounting in Taiwan, and the dynamics of the Taiwanese economy.

"The Global Immersion in Asia program represents our commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding and providing students with a unique platform to explore the latest developments in technology and business within the context of a vibrant cultural landscape," said Professor Yenn-Ru Chen, Associate Dean for International Affairs in the College of Commerce.

Following Professor Chen's welcome, Professor Hong Yi Chen, the program coordinator from the Department of Finance, further extended a warm welcome to NCCU and Taiwan. Professor Chen provided a detailed overview of the program's intensive schedule, which included morning and afternoon classes, a city tour showcasing Taiwan's cultural landmarks, a company visit to a beauty and health sustainable products company, and opportunities to learn from innovative Taiwanese entrepreneurs.

The opening ceremony also featured presentations from NCCUC's International Program Ambassadors (IPAs), about Taiwan and NCCUC. This initial event set the tone for a week of collaborative learning and cultural exchange.

Throughout the program, students engaged in a variety of interactive and hands-on learning activities. They participated in lively discussions, tackled challenging case studies, and collaborated on group projects, fostering a spirit of teamwork and knowledge sharing. The program also included a visit to O'right Inc., a sustainable beauty and health product manufacturer, where students gained insights into the company's innovative practices and commitment to environmental responsibility.

A highlight of the program was a city tour that allowed students to immerse themselves in Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. They explored iconic landmarks such as the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, Ximending, Taipei 101 Observatory, and experienced the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional night market.

The academic component of the program was equally enriching. Students gained a deep understanding of leadership principles through a team-building exercise where they collaborated to construct a "spaghetti tower." They delved into the world of investment management, learning how to harness the power of big data and Python programming language for data analysis and portfolio optimization. In the realm of business administration, they explored the creative process behind new product design and discussed the factors that have contributed to Apple's remarkable success.

The program also provided students with valuable insights into the unique aspects of accounting in Taiwan, covering both managerial and financial accounting practices as well as the intricacies of the tax system. Additionally, a dedicated seminar on the dynamics of the Taiwanese economy offered a comprehensive overview of the country's economic history, current challenges, and future prospects in an increasingly globalized world.

The culmination of the program was a final project presentation, where students showcased their newly acquired knowledge and skills by presenting actionable plans based on real-world case study. This capstone experience allowed them to integrate the diverse concepts and perspectives they had learned throughout the program and demonstrate their ability to apply them to practical business challenges.

As the program concluded, participants were presented with certificates of completion, recognizing their successful immersion in the rich tapestry of Taiwan's technological advancements and cultural traditions. The Global Immersion in Asia: Where Technology Meets Culture Summer Program not only equipped students with valuable knowledge and skills but also fostered lasting friendships and cross-cultural connections, making it a truly transformative experience.

Looking ahead, National Chengchi University plans to continue offering the Global Immersion in Asia program, expanding its reach to students from around the world who seek a unique and enriching educational experience in the heart of Asia.

About the “Global Immersion in Asia” Summer Program
Asia is rapidly becoming a major player in the global economy, making it crucial for future business leaders to understand its unique landscape. The "Global Immersion in Asia" program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate this dynamic region, focusing on the use of technology and innovation to drive corporate success and sustainability.

About National Chengchi College of Commerce (NCCUC)
The National Chengchi College of Commerce is a leading institution for business education in Taiwan. With a strong focus on international collaboration and research, NCCUC is committed to preparing students for successful careers in the global economy.

【Article by College of Commerce】
On May 25, 2024, an air of entrepreneurial zeal encapsulated the President’s House at NCCU University as alumni from the IMBA program recounted their transitions from ambitious business enthusiasts to accomplished entrepreneurs. The venue brimmed with the collective anticipation of students, alumni, and faculty who convened for the event, all eager to decipher the formula for cultivating a prosperous venture as illustrated by the university’s distinguished graduates.

Mr. Yenlan Lin, the President of the IMBA Alumni Association, commenced the proceedings with an engaging and welcoming address. His speech set the theme of ‘entrepreneurship’ at the forefront, while commending the varied and rich backgrounds of the guest speakers whose expertise spanned supply chain management, savvy retail formulation, and innovative business initiatives. Their hands-on lessons, deeply rooted in the real-world challenges and triumphs of NCCU’s alumni, set an inspired and energetic tone for the discussions that followed.

The first presentation “Wine Wisdom: Navigating the Vine to Virtual Shift in Wine and Culinary Entrepreneurship” featured Elisa Tang, a 2021 IMBA alumna, alongside her business associate and sommelier, Alex Chen. Together, they founded 50/45 Winehaus in 2017, initially a brick-and-mortar wine bar that transitioned to a fully virtual model earlier this year.

Elisa charmed the audience by introducing the playful term ‘winetrepreneur’, marrying her love for wine with her entrepreneurial spirit. She described their challenging journey from operating a physical store to adapting to a virtual business model, however, she assured that their passion for bringing wine knowledge to everyone remains strong. As a testament to this, Elisa enthusiastically invited attendees to seek expert wine advice across their social platforms and even over the phone. Elisa equated their entrepreneurial path to a mini-IMBA program, a sentiment that elicited light-hearted laughter from the audience. Engagingly, Elisa inquired whether anyone had business aspirations, with IMBA Alumni Association President, Yenlan Lin, raising his hand and suggesting that for him entrepreneurship meant financial freedom.

Reflecting on cultural shifts, Elisa contrasted the overlooked prospect of entrepreneurship in the past with its current stature. She stressed that passion not only initiates a business venture but also serves as an anchor through tough times. The duo recounted their pathway from Taiwan’s hospitality sector to their mission of demystifying wine, focusing on market knowledge to tailor their offerings to local preferences and dispel elitist perceptions.

A wine-tasting interlude allowed Alex to showcase the art of wine evaluation. Attendees learned the nuances of observing color, swirling to release aroma, and identifying the subtle flavors that dance on the palate. Alex emphasized the importance of trusting one’s own senses and dismantling preconceived notions about fine wine.

Resuming the presentation, Elisa discussed market strategies that distinguished them, such as being the first wine bar in Taiwan to offer wine by the half bottle on all its selection which fostered a distinctive consumer appeal. They advocated for cost-effectiveness in ambiance, stating that it is the guests who truly set the atmosphere. Their presentation, rich with practical advice and anecdotes, wrapped up by emphasizing the importance of passion and persistence in building a successful venture.

The second session “Kombucha Insights, Opportunities and Challenges” was conducted by Carol Tsou, co-founder of Aplanty, a UK-based company. Carol, who holds a degree in nutrition and possesses expertise in business development, was joined by her co-founder Clint Weng, who has qualifications in business management and biology. Carol initiated the presentation by introducing kombucha to the audience, detailing the fermented nature of the tea and its consequent health benefits. She also underscored the importance of careful fermentation to prevent bacterial contamination.

Carol provided an overview of the growing global kombucha market, with a spotlight on its burgeoning popularity in the UK. She highlighted Aplanty’s innovative approach, developing a powdered form of kombucha, which was highlighted as a strategic product innovation aimed at curbing logistical expenses related to keeping the bottled liquid form refrigerated.

She also introduced the unique additions of guarana for its metabolism-boosting caffeine content and marine collagen for skin health to their kombucha, further setting Aplanty Limited apart in a growingly competitive market space.

With an eye towards the future, Carol outlined Aplanty’s strategic plans for expansion in 2024, noting the significance of their vegan product in line with market trends and consumer preferences. The price point and target market demographics were also discussed with precision, recognizing the nuances of target audience consumer behavior.

In response to an inquiry from alumni Chloe Huang regarding kombucha’s retail availability, Carol addressed commercial viability challenges and the need for consumer education in Taiwan, contrasting it with higher awareness levels in the Western markets.

Professor Jason Tsai, Director of the IMBA Program at NCCU, inquired regarding operational challenges post-launch which in turn elicited Carol’s acknowledgment that, while market education about powdered kombucha remains a hurdle in the UK, introducing and scaling kombucha in milk tea-centric Taiwanese culture presents a more formidable challenge.

At the end of her presentation, Carol provided insightful advice to the alumni about the entrepreneurial journey; highlighting the necessity of a robust partnership and the delicate balance between entrepreneurial activity, full-time employment, and personal life, illustrating the complex reality of navigating such professional crossroads.

The final presentation of the day was delivered by Lynn Cho, a 2017 alumna who has embraced solopreneurship. Lynn outlined her career path which began at Costco to creating and providing online courses centered around product launch strategies, a shift influenced by the surge in online education due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lynn’s insights fostered an engaging dialogue on the intricacies of penetrating significant retail spaces, such as Costco. Mr. Yenlan Lin sought Lynn’s perspective on the feasibility of Aplanty’s powdered kombucha placement within Costco’s inventory. In collaboration with Carol, Lynn addressed the operational challenges and stringent volume expectations. In response to an inquiry raised by Elisa Tang regarding any fundamental principles or strategies for negotiating with Costco, Lynn imparted that while everything is open to negotiation, the leverage one holds largely depends on the demand for their product.

Joining the discourse, Professor Foo Nin Ho, Consumer Behavior Professor at NCCU, posed critical inquiries regarding consumer behavior patterns and the ramifications of product returns on suppliers. Lynn clarified that suppliers typically absorb the financial burden of product returns, a revelation underscoring the significance of a tightly managed supply chain.

The session concluded with a networking segment, wherein attendees partook in casual conversations over a selection of refreshments, exchanging insights and drawing inspiration from one another. This event epitomized the translation of academic theories into the tangible realm of entrepreneurial execution, fortifying the bridge between scholastic pursuit and commercial endeavor.

In attendance for camaraderie, alumna Jane Yang from the batch of 2021 remarked on the value of absorbing knowledge from the experiences of others, regardless of her current plans to embark on an entrepreneurial path.

The event titled, “From Passion to Profit: Turning Your Ideas into Successful Ventures”, was a resounding success. It showcased the entrepreneurial enthusiasm prevalent within the IMBA community, providing actionable knowledge and cultivating a nurturing atmosphere for potential entrepreneurs. The event highlighted the indispensable role that passion, determination, and strategic thinking play in the metamorphosis of novel ideas into prosperous businesses.