October 26 – 8:00 am – October 30 – 5:00 pm
Join the UNIgreen SURES Innovation Challenge Grand Final in Paris
Following the local UNIgreen SURES Innovation Challenges organised across the Alliance, the winning teams from each partner university are invited to compete in the UNIgreen SURES Innovation Challenge Grand Final, hosted by SupBiotech in Villejuif (Paris, France) from 26 to 30 October 2026.
The Grand Final brings together the most promising student innovators from across the UNIgreen Alliance for a week of inspiration, collaboration and entrepreneurship.
Whether you are pitching your project, meeting fellow innovators or discovering the European innovation ecosystem, this event is designed to help transform ideas into future solutions.
Who can participate?
Participation is reserved for the winning teams selected during each local UNIgreen SURES Innovation Challenge.
Each partner university is responsible for nominating and registering its finalist teams.
The winners are
Discover some of the winning teams from across the UNIgreen Alliance. More winners will be featured soon!
Innovative nuzzle design for a sprayer
Developed and presented by Aleksander Georgiev from Agricultural University – Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
ArcticBioLoop
Developed and presented by Prince Addai and Salahuddin Noori from Agricultural University of Iceland (Iceland)
Grænir Hagar
Developed and presented by Heiðrún Hrund Sigurðardóttir, Sigríður Ósk Jónsdóttir and Svala Valborg Fannarsdóttir from Agricultural University of Iceland (Iceland)
Rec3O2
Polytechnic University of Coimbra (Portugal)
Event highlights
During the week, participants will have the opportunity to:
- Present their projects during the Innovation Challenge pitches.
- Attend inspirational conferences and round-table discussions with entrepreneurs and innovation experts.
- Take part in a Climate Fresk workshop.
- Visit Genopole, one of Europe’s leading biotechnology innovation hubs.
- Meet students, researchers and staff from across the UNIgreen Alliance.
- Participate in networking and social activities throughout the event.
Programme
Monday, 26 October
Arrival & Registration
14:00 – 15:30
Icebreaker and Networking Games
Kick off the afternoon with an engaging student-led icebreaker session designed to help participants connect, collaborate, and build new friendships. Through a variety of interactive games and team activities, students will have the opportunity to get to know one another in a fun and welcoming environment, fostering a strong sense of community from the very start of the programme.
16:00 – 17:30
Innovation Pitch Practice & Mock Jury
Prepare for the Innovation Challenge by participating in dedicated pitch practice sessions. Students will have the opportunity to refine their ideas, strengthen their presentation skills, and receive valuable feedback from a practice jury. This session is designed to help participants improve their communication, confidence, and ability to effectively present innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
Tuesday, 27 October
Climate Fresk Workshop
9:00 – 13:00
Climate Fresk Workshop
Join the Climate Fresk, an interactive workshop designed to help participants better understand the causes and consequences of climate change through a collaborative and engaging approach. This globally recognized educational tool promotes awareness and encourages collective action toward a more sustainable future.
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch and networking with fellow Innovation Challenge Participants.
14:00 – 18:00
International Incubator Visit – Genopole
Visit Genopole, France’s leading biocluster dedicated to biotechnology and life sciences innovation. Discover its international incubator, meet key stakeholders in the biotech ecosystem, and learn more about entrepreneurship, research, and innovation in the field of biotechnology. This visit offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for biotech startups and research-driven innovation
Wednesday, 28 October
10:00 – 12:00
Round Table: innovation
Join experts, researchers, entrepreneurs, and innovators for an engaging round-table discussion on innovation. This interactive session will explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in technology, sustainability, biotechnology, and entrepreneurship, while encouraging dialogue and knowledge sharing among participants.
12:00 – 13:00
Entomophagy Worshop with Les Minuscules
Discover the fascinating world of entomophagy, the practice of consuming insects as a sustainable food source. Led by Les Minuscules, this interactive workshop will explore the environmental, nutritional, and cultural dimensions of insect-based food, offering participants a unique perspective on the future of sustainable nutrition. Participants may also have the opportunity to engage in tastings and discussions throughout the session.
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch Break
14:00 – 16:30
Innovation Pitch Competition
Students will present their innovative ideas and solutions before a jury and fellow participants. This exciting session highlights creativity, teamwork, and entrepreneurial thinking, providing an opportunity for students to showcase the projects they have developed throughout the programme while receiving valuable feedback from experts and peers.
16:30 – 17:30
Keynote Speaker Session
Gain insights from an keynote guest speaker with expertise in innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. Through their professional experience and personal journey, participants will discover new perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the challenges shaping the future of science and technology.
17:30 – 18:30
Welcome Cocktail
Conclude the day with a welcome cocktail and networking reception. This informal gathering offers participants, speakers, UNIgreen staff, and JIC guests the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Thursday, 29 October
10:00 – 11:30
School Visits & Student Innovation Presentations
Participating schools will visit the campus and discover the innovative projects developed by students throughout the programme. Students will present their ideas, research, and solutions through dedicated workshops and presentations, fostering exchange, inspiration, and collaboration between participants and visiting groups.
11:30 – 13:00
Innovation Pitch Competition
Students will deliver their final innovation pitches, presenting creative and sustainable solutions developed during the programme. This session celebrates teamwork, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking while providing participants with the opportunity to showcase their work to peers, experts, and invited guests.
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch Break
14:00 – 17:00
Innovation Pitch Competition
Students will deliver their final innovation pitches, presenting creative and sustainable solutions developed during the programme. This session celebrates teamwork, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking while providing participants with the opportunity to showcase their work to peers, experts, and invited guests.
19:00 – 23:00
Official Dinner in Paris
Enjoy a memorable evening in the heart of Paris during the programme’s official dinner. This special event offers participants, staff, and guests the opportunity to connect in a relaxed and friendly setting while celebrating the achievements and experiences shared throughout the Innovation Challenge.
Friday, 30 October
9:30 – 11:00
Reflection Session
Participants will come together to reflect on their experience throughout the programme. Through guided discussions and group exchanges, students will share key learnings, challenges, achievements, and memorable moments, helping to identify valuable insights and future opportunities for growth.
11:30 – 13:00
Wrap-Up & Conclusion
Join the final plenary session bringing together students, coordinators, and members of the Joint International Center (JIC). Participants will reflect on the programme’s outcomes, share key takeaways, and discuss future opportunities for collaboration within the UNIgreen community and beyond.
Registration
Registration is open only to the winning teams selected by each UNIgreen partner university.
Registrations close on 7 October 2026
