Students Across Europe Compete in the Eco-Design Challenge in Leeuwarden

From April 1st to 3rd, 2025, students from the Technical University of Valencia, the University of West Attica, Kaunas University of Technology, the University of Oradea, and Firda participated in the Eco-Design Challenge training held in Leeuwarden, Netherlands. Organized by Business Development Friesland, this event served as an essential step in preparing students for a European competition focused on sustainable entrepreneurship and eco-design innovation.

The Eco-Design Challenge aims to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among students by encouraging them to develop innovative business plans for environmentally friendly ventures. Throughout the training, participants engaged in a series of interactive workshops, hands-on activities, and business simulation games, all designed to enhance their ability to apply eco-design principles in real-world scenarios. Moreover, they received guidance on crafting a comprehensive business strategy and effectively pitching their ideas to potential stakeholders.

The competition itself is structured to foster innovation, sustainability, and business acumen, ensuring that students not only conceptualize eco-friendly business ideas but also gain the skills necessary to implement them successfully. The training in Leeuwarden provided participants with a dynamic and collaborative learning environment, where they could exchange ideas, refine their projects, and receive valuable mentorship.

Next Steps: Evaluations and National Awards

Following the training, students will now finalize their business plans, which will be evaluated by a panel of experts. The winners of the competition will be announced in the fall of 2025, during a series of national award ceremonies in each participating country. These events will recognize the most promising business ideas and provide a platform for showcasing innovative approaches to sustainable entrepreneurship.

As the competition progresses, all participants will continue to develop their projects, applying the knowledge and skills gained during the training to create practical and impactful eco-design solutions. This initiative highlights the growing importance of sustainability-driven business models and empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs to lead the transition towards a greener future.

For updates on the competition and upcoming events, stay connected with us!