Global Innovation Challenge continues to grow, engaging over 580 entrepreneurial innovators

More than 580 innovators from across four continents united to address pressing global challenges, from sustainable denim production and methane emission tracking to automated architectural design. The international university competition, organised by Heriot-Watt University, is in its third year of successive growth and empowers student and academic-led ventures through training, mentorship, and funding. This year, 13 winners were awarded a share of £30,000 to advance their business ideas and prototypes.

The Global Innovation Challenge has grown significantly, increasing accessibility to world-class skills development and an accompanying workshop series. Designed to identify and support early-stage ideas across fields such as engineering, sustainability, design, robotics, and AI, the Challenge offers funding, mentorship, and entrepreneurial training. This transformative initiative enables participants to develop ideas into prototypes and ultimately into thriving businesses, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs to tackle global issues.

The annual competition, which is bolstered by a weekly workshop series, is open to all Heriot-Watt students, staff and alumni across the university's five global campuses and Heriot-Watt Online, a worldwide education initiative increasing accessibility to world-class skills development. This year has seen participation grow from by 40 participants this year, with over 580 people within the Heriot-Watt community taking part.

Following a competitive pitch event, The Best Sustainability led Business Idea award was presented to Dubai-based Vitalii Starikov, the creator of AI Methane Tracker. This pioneering innovation leverages satellite data and advanced AI to accurately pinpoint and reduce methane emissions, offering a scalable tool for the global energy and environmental sectors. By tackling one of the most pressing climate challenges, AI Methane Tracker is positioned to support industries in achieving ambitious decarbonisation targets.

Receiving the Best Proof of Concept Stage Award, Willow Robotics created by Edinburgh-based innovator David Gladwell, aims to create a semi-automated architectural measurement tool. This technology is designed to streamline the creation of residential floor plans, freeing architects to focus on creativity and innovation. By automating repetitive tasks, Willow Robotics exemplifies the potential for engineering and robotics to transform industries and improve efficiency.

Also based in Edinburgh, Zexi Mu captivated the judges to win the Best Brewing and Distilling Prize with Craft Connect. This groundbreaking online platform connects individuals and small businesses with breweries and distilleries, enabling them to create bespoke beverage brands. Craft Connect opens the door to personalised production, offering entrepreneurs a chance to bring unique drinks to market while fostering innovation and collaboration within the brewing and distilling industries. By blending creativity with accessibility, this initiative is set to make waves in one of the world’s most vibrant sectors.

In the Scottish Borders, competition judges were unanimously impressed by Shanmugapriya Krishnamurthy’s pitch showcasing The Eco Denim, which won the Best Textiles and Design Award. This innovative project combines water-efficient, non-toxic dyeing processes with modular design and circular business models to revolutionise sustainable garment production. Rooted in Heriot-Watt’s globally recognised textiles heritage, The Eco Denim paves the way for a more environmentally responsible approach to fashion.

Danielle Moran, Enterprise Manager at Heriot-Watt University, said:

“This year’s Global Innovation Challenge demonstrates the immense entrepreneurial potential within our global community. With over 580 participants connecting across our campuses in Edinburgh, Dubai, and Malaysia, and through Heriot-Watt Online, we’ve seen ideas that not only push the boundaries of technology and design but also promise tangible societal benefits.

“By offering comprehensive support—including pitch training, funding pathways, and crucial industry connections, we’re ensuring these entrepreneurs can translate their pioneering ideas into meaningful real-world solutions.”

Professor Gillian Murray, Deputy Principal for Business and Enterprise at Heriot-Watt University, said:

“The Global Innovation Challenge harnesses the power of our international networks and interdisciplinary expertise to catalyse positive change. As global industries continue to tackle the most complex issues, from climate resilience to resource efficiency, our participants are designing bold and scalable solutions that transcend borders and industries.

“This competition highlights our role in fostering an ecosystem where sustainable ventures can thrive. It is through these dynamic partnerships and creative collaborations that we’re empowering a new generation of leaders to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.”

The Global Innovation Challenge is supported by Santander and match-funded by the Robert M. Buchan Early Stage Business Fund. Igniting passion for entrepreneurship through sessions with internal and industry experts, this year's guest speakers included Senior leaders from I4PD, More Yum Studio, Johnston Carmichael Chartered Accountants, AccelerateHer, Converge and FireFinch.

Recognising the 2024/2025 Global Innovation Challenge Winners:

Best Prototype Stage:

Shifted (Cian Smith) – Instantly matching hospitality venues with pre-vetted staff to address staffing shortages.

Best Purpose-Led Business Idea:

Little Signs (Lauren Gilmour) – Bridging hearing and Deaf experiences through inclusive education and communication tools.

Entrepreneurial Spirit:

Quick Care (Hanaa Gatta) – Paediatric-focused telehealth platform offering fast virtual consultations.

Outfit IQ (Kyle Hanning) – AI-powered style advice app enhancing shopping experiences.

SLIDAR (Noah Williams) – Retrofit helmet-mounted rangefinder improving search and rescue operations.

ResLife Buddy (Naushi Samad) – A user-friendly app helping students integrate and thrive in campus accommodation.

Best Proof of Concept Stage:

Willow Robotics (David Gladwell) – Automating architectural measurements, freeing professionals to focus on creative design.

Best of Robotics and AI:

Accai (Mizan Haque) – AI companion supporting remote workers, improving productivity and supporting neurodiverse minds.

Best Sustainability Led Business Idea:

AI Methane Tracker (Vitalii Starikov) – Using AI and satellite data to monitor methane emissions and reduce environmental risks.

Best Brewing and Distilling Prize:

Craft Connect (Zexi Mu) – An online platform enabling individuals and small businesses to create custom beverage brands.

Best of Health and Wellbeing:

SwimSmart (Ewan Wills) – A device providing real-time swim metrics to enhance athletic training and performance.

Best of Textiles and Design:

The Eco Denim (Shanmugapriya Krishnamurthy) – Eco-friendly denim production using cyanotype printing and circular design principles.

Best Operational Business:

Third Finger Up (TFU) Events (Lilja Piuli Alam) – ‘Cabaret Murder’ an immersive cabaret show combined with an interactive murder mystery.