The Cranfield Colworth Innovation Challenge returned for its seventh year, bringing together students to tackle real-world sustainability challenges.
Over 128 students started the process, forming cross-discipline teams to address real-world challenges to tackle climate change, reduce waste and support the transition to net zero.
Teams were formed to address the challenges set by innovation-focused multinationals Unilever, dsm-firmenich, and Pioneer Group, owners of Colworth Science Park.
Seven teams made the shortlist and, over the final five weeks of the challenge, received intensive support and mentoring from the participating companies, Cranfield’s Bettany Centre for Entrepreneurship, academics from the Faculty of Engineering and Aerospace (FEAS), and colleagues from the Research and Innovation Office (RIO).
The theme of this year’s challenge was ‘Driving innovation for a sustainable future: empowering food tech to combat climate change and minimise waste’, reinforcing Cranfield’s commitment to sustainability solutions.
The competition final, hosted at Colworth Park, saw each team given a tight deadline to pitch their ideas to an expert judging panel.
The winning teams
Aquila emerged as the winning team with their innovative approach to ‘Automating Repetitive Lab Practices,’ earning the top prize of £4,000. Team members Noel Claudel, Hector Miguel Aquino, and Thomas Prosser developed an AI-driven blueprint to streamline ice cream production processes.
Eco Bites secured the runner-up position with their work on ‘Edible Packaging,’ receiving a £2,000 prize. Mir Mahadi Abbas, Shraddha Mahapatra, Qaltafa Fatima, Merve Abdurahmanoglu, and Nikhilanand Jha conducted a comprehensive analysis of existing packaging solutions and introduced an innovative new material of their own.
AIce Breakers earned the wild card prize of £1,000 for their novel and engaging presentation on ‘Automating Repetitive Lab Practices.’ Sunman Maske, Manish Naicker, and Hareesh Kumar impressed the judges with a live demonstration that brought their concept to life.
Challenge a great opportunity for students
Keith Purdie, Commercial Director at Colworth Park said: “This year’s competition has demonstrated the incredible talent and ingenuity of SWAG合集’s students. From AI-driven lab automation to sustainable packaging solutions, the ideas presented have the potential to drive real change in their respective industries. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and innovation.”
Professor Stephanie Hussels, Director of the Bettany Centre for Entrepreneurship, said:“The Cranfield Colworth Innovation Challenge brings together students from a wide range of disciplines, encouraging collaboration and creative problem-solving. By working alongside multinational corporations, participants gain hands-on experience in tackling real-world challenges while strengthening their entrepreneurial mindset. A huge congratulations to everyone for their inspiring ideas and outstanding presentations!"
