HCMC – ENSOVER, a student team from the HCMC University of Technology, has won the “GBA Business Challenge” season 4 with an initiative transforming the invasive water hyacinth into sustainable high-quality paper products.
ENSOVER is created to enhance the water hyacinth’s value and resolve social and environmental issues, embodying the motto “From waste to great”. The team wants to highlight Vietnam’s identity through innovative solutions to address local environmental challenges.
GBA Business Challenge is an annual start-up competition held by the German Business Association (GBA). The competition is expected to facilitate the transformation of innovative business ideas into reality, with this year’s theme focused on solutions for social and environmental issues and sustainable development.
After a 6-month process, five teams surpassed 45 other contenders from universities nationwide to reach the final pitch, where they presented innovative solutions to a judge panel for prizes of VND350 million and a 12-month coaching program.
At the event, the AGROWISE team secured the first runner-up position by offering a solution for farmers to yield bumper crops while conserving natural resources. The MEDIFIND team was the second runner-up with their application promoting safe antibiotic usage.
Launched in 2020, GBA Business Challenge aims to support local young talents and help them transform their promising visions into viable businesses. The competition offers tools, experience, and funding for entrepreneurs, with the first three editions attracting over 200 high potential business concepts.
