Spectacular Grand Finale of the Erasmus University Challenge 2024: Bigger Than Ever!

On September 19, the Excelsior Stadium was buzzing with excitement during the Grand Finale of the third edition of the Erasmus University Challenge. With a record-breaking 74 teams, revamped categories, and a focus on logistics, energy transition, and societal impact, this was the most impressive edition yet.

In addition to the familiar Ideation and Prototyping categories, a new Start-up category was introduced this year for more established ventures, raising the stakes and driving even more innovation! 

The Winners

  • Agora triumphed in the Ideation category (€3000 prize) with their revolutionary idea to enhance social cohesion by connecting people with local
  • PAVA won the Prototype prize (€4000) with their groundbreaking innovation, which involves placing sensors in elderly residents’ rooms, connected to a dashboard interface for caregivers.
  • The Start-up prize (€5000) was awarded toCupHubfor their pioneeringinitiativeCasey, a reliable storage and cleaning container for menstrual cups,allowing them to be discreetly cleaned anywhere.

Prof. Dr. Annelien Bredenoord, chairperson of the Executive Board of Erasmus University Rotterdam, emphasized the importance of innovation and societal impact: “The university not only adds value in education and research but is also a breeding ground for entrepreneurship. Here, ideas and innovations are born that make a real, lasting impact on society.”

Excitement Until the Very End

Jury member Han Go of Go-Tan B.V. praised the finalists for their resilience and perseverance: “Choosing a winner is no easy task because each team has shown impressive results and exudes success. The dedication and growth I have seen in everyone are simply inspiring.”

The €1000 Audience Award, voted live by viewers, was won by Fiwani. Category winners took home substantial cash prizes: €3000 for Ideation, €4000 for Prototype, and a whopping €5000 for Start-up. Free beers, wines and sodas is won by ModelMatic, and STAGE 2 Berlin is won by CubHub.

International Ambitions

Following this successful edition, the winners now have the chance to take the international stage at the Stage TWO competition in Berlin. With double the participation compared to the first edition and an unprecedented passion for entrepreneurship, the future of innovation looks bright.

The Erasmus University Challenge is organized by Erasmus Enterprise. For photos, videos, and more information, visit erasmusuniversitychallenge.nl or contact amy.kong@eur.nl.

Erasmus Enterprise Announces Finalists of the Erasmus University Challenge 2024

Rotterdam, 12th September 2024 – Erasmus Enterprise proudly announces the 14 visionary start-ups and student initiatives that have made it to the finals of the prestigious Erasmus University Challenge. These finalists represent the future of innovation, showcasing bold ideas that are set to reshape industries, drive positive societal impact, and solve global challenges.

The third edition of the Erasmus University Challenge competition provides a platform for students to transform their ideas into viable business models. From streamlining emergency response times to creating eco-friendly baby clothing subscriptions, these projects aren’t just ideas; they’re blueprints for a better future.

Prizes Worth Up To €10.000,-

To help the winners make the next steps in their journey, finalists can win prizes in three categories: Ideation (€3,000 prize), Prototype (€5,000 prize), and Start-up (€10,000 prize). Aside from the monetary prizes, finalists of the Erasmus University Challenge can win the audience award (€1000,-), co-working spaces, a year of free beers or wines or sodas. They gain access to expert mentorship, personalised coaching, and valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors. They also receive visibility within the entrepreneurial community and potential partnerships to help accelerate the growth and positive impact of their ventures. Additionally, winners benefit from access to Erasmus Enterprise’s innovation ecosystem, offering resources to further develop or scale their businesses.

The initiative is a testament to Erasmus University’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent and driving positive change in society. “The programme mirrors the real startup and scale-up world closely. Even if some ideas don’t make it to the finals, participants gain invaluable lessons along the way. We’re proud to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey.” said Liesje Goldschmidt of Erasmus Enterprise.

Introducing The Finalists

After a rigorous selection process, 14 exceptional teams have been chosen to compete in the Erasmus University Challenge finals.

In the Ideation category, participants focus on the conceptual development of innovative ideas that have the potential to solve real-world problems. The Prototype category is for teams that have moved beyond the idea phase and developed a working model or proof of concept for their solution. In the Start-up category, participants are scaling or refining their ventures with established business models and real-world market potential.

In the Ideation category, Samaritance, FitFlask, Agora, and SafeSips bring forward creative and visionary concepts.

The Prototype category features advanced solutions from Edion, Fiwani, Aestuarium, Emilaid, MiniSwaps, and PAVA, all focusing on turning ideas into tangible products.
Finally, the Start-up category showcases the impressive growth of CupHub, Buzz – Power Bank Sharing, Modelmatic, and Hops & Co., each demonstrating real-world market potential. These teams represent the future of innovation, with projects spanning technology, health, sustainability, and societal impact.

Bryan Van Rij from Agora said: “It’s an inspiring day where we combine theory and practical insights. I’m also very happy and excited to be one of the finalists.” These finalists have demonstrated outstanding potential in addressing contemporary challenges across various sectors, including health and wellness, sustainability, technology, and social entrepreneurship.

Among the finalists, CupHub has been selected to represent Erasmus University at the prestigious Stage TWO competition in Berlin, an international start-up event that brings together Europe’s top university spin-offs. Having advanced from the Prototype category to the Start-up category, CupHub’s rapid growth and success reflect its strong potential in the sustainable packaging industry.

Join Us at the Grand Finale!

Find out who the next Dennis Bergkamp and Frank de Boer will be in the Grand Finale of the Erasmus University Challenge, which will take place on 19th September 2024, at the Excelsior Stadium, Rotterdam.

This thrilling event offers you a front-row seat to witness the next generation of innovators, network with industry leaders, and support solutions that will shape our world. Secure your spot and experience the future of entrepreneurship. For more details on the event and to secure your spot, please visit Erasmus University Challenge Grand Finale.

About Erasmus University Challenge

The Erasmus University Challenge is a platform that encourages students to develop their entrepreneurial skills and turn their innovative ideas into real-world solutions. It connects ambitious students with business experts, enabling them to create startups that contribute positively to society. The Challenge reflects Erasmus Enterprise’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and positive societal impact.

For further information, please contact:

Amy Kong
Marketing & Communications Lead
amy.kong@eur.nl