On July 6, 2026, students of the School of Economics and Business of the University of Ljubljana successfully presented their solutions, prototypes, and business models for the Sailing Association of Slovenia at the final event of the project Entrepreneurial Knowledge for Recognition, carried out as part of the Problem-Based Learning of Students in the Work Environment. The students Martin Jovanović, Jovan Zlatković, Luka Rožanc, Lan Sraka, Luka Gugleta, Marina Lukjanović, Andraž Stropnik, and Kristina Lukjanović participated in the project. They were guided in their work by a mentor from the non-economic environment, Eldina Domazet, Secretary General of the Sailing Federation of Slovenia, and a pedagogical mentor, Prof. Dr. Boštjan Antončič. The event was also attended by Srečo Jadek, Vice President of the Sailing Federation of Slovenia, and Dr. Tone Jagodic, former long-time Secretary General of the Olympic Committee of Slovenia – Association of Sports Federations.

In addition to developing sport sailing, the Sailing Federation of Slovenia also strives to further popularize recreational sailing as a pleasant, healthy, and environmentally friendly leisure activity. The main challenge of the project was therefore aimed at increasing the visibility of sailing in Slovenia and creating approaches that would bring sailing closer to the general public, young people, groups, and organizations. Using design thinking and business modeling, the students developed several innovative and feasible business models. In doing so, they also took into account the principles of sustainable development, especially the possibilities for sustainable promotion of sailing and reducing the amount of waste when carrying out activities. Their solutions connected sport, recreation, socializing, education, sustainable behavior, and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Among the proposals presented, programs for beginner sailing, groups for young people, a day with challenges, sailing for leaders, promotional approaches, and various forms of partnerships stood out. The students also prepared prototypes, which clearly demonstrated the usability, feasibility, and development potential of their ideas. The final presentation demonstrated a high level of entrepreneurial thinking, creativity, and the ability to connect theory with practice. The project provided students with valuable experience in solving a concrete challenge from practice and offered the Sailing Federation of Slovenia fresh perspectives and useful suggestions for increasing the visibility of sailing. The project confirms that young people can make a significant contribution to the development of activities that connect a healthy lifestyle, nature, sport, and a sustainable future with creative entrepreneurial approaches.