The Qyos Connect team took first prize and Mute Space secured the second recognition in the eighth edition of Cienciathon, held at the Alicante Science Park (PCA) from October 16th to 18th. The event connected university talent with a real business challenge proposed by ACTIU, focusing on the circular economy.
Organized by the PCA, the student association Multitec, and FUNDEUN, the gathering offered students and graduates from the University of Alicante (UA) the opportunity to transform their knowledge into innovative proposals, with guidance from professionals and companies. Over three days, the five participating teams worked on their solutions, received mentorship, and attended workshops.
ACTIU's challenge revolved around 'servitization' to develop models that extend product lifespan and improve resource utilization, using QYOS acoustic booths as a reference. This perspective addresses circularity beyond recycling, incorporating user experience, technology, and new business models.
Carmen Berbegal, ACTIU's Corporate Responsibility Director, explained that circular economy is a company pillar and they aimed to work on it through services to "extend product use, give it a second life." She highlighted the value of contrasting the company's work with external individuals to identify interesting aspects of the proposals.
Esteban Pelayo, manager of the Alicante Science Park, emphasized that "Cienciathon demonstrates how university talent translates into ideas capable of responding to real business needs." He praised the participants' initiative, creativity, and teamwork, as well as the collaboration of ACTIU and other entities.
The event was supported by the University of Alicante, its Employment Center, the Provincial Council of Alicante, and the Generalitat Valenciana.
