The eighth edition of Cienciathon has successfully concluded after a weekend filled with creativity, learning, and teamwork at the Alicante Scientific Park (Parque Científico de Alicante, PCA). The team Qyos Connect emerged as the winner, while Mute Space secured the second prize in an event that connected university talent with a real business challenge proposed by ACTIU.
Organised by the PCA, the student association Multitec, and FUNDEUN, the event provided students and graduates from the University of Alicante with the opportunity to transform their knowledge into innovative proposals, supported by professionals and companies. Over three days, from 16 to 18 October, five participating teams—Eureka, Mentes en Red, Mute Space, Qyos Connect, and Sinergia—worked on their solutions, received mentorship, and participated in workshops to effectively develop and communicate their ideas.
Circular economy challenge
ACTIU's challenge invited participants to explore the circular economy through 'servitisation', which involves developing models that allow for the use and associated services of a product, promoting its maintenance, utilisation, and longevity. The challenge referenced the QYOS acoustic cabins and the possibilities of developing services around them. This approach allowed for addressing circularity beyond recycling or material recovery, incorporating aspects such as user experience, technology, and new business models.
Carmen Berbegal, Corporate Responsibility Director at ACTIU, explained that the circular economy is one of the company's pillars and that this time they wanted to explore it through services to "extend the product's life and give it a second life". Berbegal also highlighted the value of contrasting the company’s work with individuals outside its usual environment, stating that the participants' contributions help identify which aspects of a proposal generate interest and guide its development. She remarked, "For me, it has been very satisfying," praising the commitment and enthusiasm of her team throughout the event.
Esteban Pelayo, manager of the Alicante Scientific Park, emphasised, "The success of Cienciathon lies in seeing how the talent from our university transforms into ideas capable of addressing real business needs. The participants have demonstrated initiative, creativity, and teamwork skills. The involvement of ACTIU and all the entities accompanying us makes possible an experience that connects training, innovation, and future opportunities."
The event was supported by the University of Alicante and its Employment Centre, the Alicante Provincial Council, and the Valencian Government. The PCA's collaboration in this initiative is made possible thanks to the support of the Valencian Government.
