Design the Future

 Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program

Design the Future: Creative Solutions for Real-World Problems

Join a unique blended program that combines digital innovation, social entrepreneurship, and creative storytelling in the festive, winter atmosphere of Bratislava.

Working in international teams, you will tackle real-world challenges faced by local NGOs. You will leverage the power of generative AI (ChatGPT, Midjourney) and Design Thinking methodology to build an Impact Digital Kit for organizations that need it most. The program also features immersive field research directly at Bratislava Christmas markets.

Key Information

• Host Institution: University of Management in Bratislava (VŠM / City University of Seattle)
• Credits: 5 ECTS
• Language of Instruction: English
• Target Group: Undergraduate students (Management, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Media, Business)
• Academic Year: 2026/2027

Important Dates & Timeline

• Application Deadline: November 10, 2026
• Virtual Component (Online): November 25, 2026 & December 9, 2026
• Physical Mobility (In Bratislava): November 30 – December 4, 2026

 Why Join? What Will You Learn and Gain?

• Real-World Impact (No Fiction): You won't create theoretical projects for the drawer. Your final Impact Digital Kit will directly help real non-governmental organizations and sheltered workshops better communicate their mission.
• Choose Your Own Organization: Teams have the unique opportunity to select a specific NGO or social enterprise to support—either a local one here in Slovakia or an organization from their own home country.
• In-Demand Generative AI Skills: Master hands-on work with generative AI for visual creation, video campaign assets, and copywriting—highly sought-after skills in today's job market.
• Design Thinking & Storytelling: Learn how to transform empathy and fieldwork insights into multi-platform digital campaigns designed for Gen Z.
• International Networking: Collaborate in diverse intercultural teams across hybrid modes (online + in-person) and build a network across Europe.

Detailed Physical Mobility Schedule (In Bratislava) – to be updated soon

• Nov 30, 2026 (Monday) | Empathy & Ideation
  • Arrival of participants, introductory lecture, morning Design Thinking workshop, and an exclusive guest lecture by an AI Expert. Guided city tour in the afternoon.
• Dec 1, 2026 (Tuesday: 9:30 - 11:00) | Innovation Ecosystem & Fieldwork
  • Excursion and field trip to the local creative center Nová Cvernovka (09:30 - 11:00), followed by active field research and stakeholder interviews at the NGO stands within the Bratislava Christmas markets.
• Dec 2, 2026 (Wednesday) | Marketing Toolkit & QR Integration
  • Interactive lecture and workshop focused on building a comprehensive Marketing Toolkit and generating dynamic QR codes for social impact campaigns.
• Dec 3, 2026 (Thursday: 10:30 - 13:30) | Technical Co-Creation & Digital Lab
  • Hands-on technical prototyping session at Lab.cafe Makerspace to finalize and assemble the digital assets.
• Dec 4, 2026 (Friday) | Impact Pitch & Evaluation
  • Final presentation of projects before an expert jury, feedback session, official certificate ceremony, and program closing.

 

Final Deliverable: The "Impact Digital Kit"

Your team will deliver a ready-to-use marketing toolkit for your chosen NGO, consisting of:

• Social Media Assets: High-quality visuals generated using AI platforms.
• Copywriting Matrix: Optimized captions, slogans, and hashtags tailored for multi-platform engagement.
• Short-Form Video: One high-impact promotional video (Reels / TikTok format).
• Interactive QR Code: Production and generation of a functional QR code designed to showcase and present your chosen organization, instantly connecting the public to its online presence.
• Strategic Plan: A brief distribution timeline and deployment recommendations for the NGO.

How to Apply?

1. Contact the Erasmus+ Coordinator at your home university.
2. Request approval for this Blended Intensive Program (BIP).
3. Submit your application before the November 10, 2026 deadline.

 

APPLY NOW / REGISTER HERE