Startup Runway 2024 Competition: Toward a New Era - Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship

Over an 8-month journey filled with numerous challenges, particularly regarding time constraints and geographical distance, the participating teams confidently showcased their talent and determination in developing and refining highly creative startup ideas. On the evening of August 21, the Startup Runway 2024 Competition - “Toward a New Era - Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship” officially reached its Final Round.

In attendance at the final event were Mr. Dinh Ngoc Lam Dien, Head of the Inspection Committee of Da Nang Youth Union; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Dat, Secretary of the Youth Union of the University of Danang (UD). From the University of Economics - UD, there were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Thi Thuy Anh, Secretary of the Party Committee - Chairwoman of the University Council; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Ngoc Phi Anh, Vice-Rector of the University, along with representatives from various departments, faculties, centers, and student organizations.

The Final Round was especially significant due to the presence of the judging panel, which included Mr. Le Van Hieu, Chairman of the Board of SEATECH Company and President of SHB Da Nang Club; Dr. Cao Tri Dung, Chairman of the Vietnam Tour Operators Association and President of the Da Nang Tourism Association; Dr. Vu Thi Bich Hau, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Da Nang; Dr. Do Le Hung Toan, Deputy Secretary of the Youth Union and President of the Student Union of the University of Danang; and Dr. Phan Hoang Long, Head of Testing and Quality Assurance at the University of Economics - UD.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Ngoc Phi Anh delivered the opening speech

In his opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Ngoc Phi Anh emphasized that with the aim of discovering innovative and sustainable ideas, from green startups to digital entrepreneurship, and from sustainable development projects to environmental protection and restoration initiatives, the Startup Runway 2024 Competition provided a practical, meaningful platform for students to express themselves, nurture, and develop their startup ideas. He also encouraged the competing teams to showcase all the qualities and talents of their projects in the final round.

Throughout its journey, the Startup Runway 2024 competition, under the theme “Toward a New Era - Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship,” has garnered widespread recognition and provided an exciting platform for students passionate about entrepreneurship across the country. After four rounds of competition featuring over 80 creative ideas from different teams, the top five teams earned their spots in the final round. These teams overcame tough challenges and participated in training sessions, where they gained valuable knowledge and skills while being inspired by guest speakers to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. With thorough preparation, the teams were encouraged to remain calm and confident, as this was their last opportunity to shine and claim the top prize.

The teams confidently showcased their talent and determination

During the final event, each team had the opportunity to present their projects. Each team had three minutes to show a video introducing their group and project to the judges, followed by a seven-minute presentation. The teams used this time to impress the judges with the potential and core values of their projects.

Each project demonstrated its unique appeal, capturing the judges’ attention

Right from the start, TEAM 401 made a strong impression with their idea "Work Experience Space - A real-life job experience model," which featured many fresh and unique elements. STRAWHAT team’s well-prepared "Straw application for packaging production" project also received high praise from both the judges and the audience. SUPERINK team, whose "Botanical Inks" project had already gained attention from the artistic community in Da Nang, demonstrated their dedication, passion, and continuous efforts in bringing their startup idea to life.

In the final two presentations, the VINCHAMP team introduced their idea of "AI-integrated technology for recycled product business management," which featured a unique concept of converting recycled waste into carbon credits. DREAMWEAVERS team presented the "4KS - FOR KIDS’ SAKE" project, an ecosystem offering comprehensive Gender & Sexuality Education solutions with products designed for both learning and play.

After moments of intense competition, the best teams were honored:

The first prize went to the SUPERINK team, with a total prize value of nearly 60 million VND.

The second prize was awarded to the VINCHAMP team, with a total prize value of nearly 48 million VND.

The third prize went to the DREAMWEAVERS team, with a total prize value of nearly 28 million VND.

02 consolation prizes were awarded to STRAWHAT and TEAM 401, with a total prize value of 23 million VND.

The Media Prize was awarded to DREAMTEAM, and the Potential Project Award went to the STRAWHAT team.

The path to entrepreneurship is never easy, but it does not deter the young Startup founders from pursuing their dreams. Congratulations to the five outstanding teams who conquered the competition and left lasting impressions.

The STARTUP RUNWAY competition has successfully completed eight seasons, with numerous socially impactful projects from talented and creative teams. This year, the competition once again demonstrated its innovation and relevance through the theme “Toward a New Era - Empowering Sustainable Entrepreneurship.” The event provided not only a meaningful, practical platform but also an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to explore, nurture, and develop their ideas.

After moments of suspense and excitement, we are delighted to announce and celebrate the outstanding teams.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Doan Ngoc Phi Anh presented flowers to thank the judges

The organizers presented commemorative plaques, certificates, and flowers to venue sponsors

The organizers presented commemorative plaques, certificates, and flowers to bronze sponsors

The organizers presented commemorative plaques, certificates, and flowers to bronze sponsors

Finals of Startup Runway 2024 in the media:

- Education Times: Da Nang students tie entrepreneurship to environmental protection initiatives

- Da Nang Newspaper: 5 teams compete in Startup Runway 2024 Finals

Center for Information and Communication Technology