The UT Challenge 2025 has officially come to a close — and what an unforgettable journey it’s been. Over the past few months, 84 student teams have dedicated themselves to developing groundbreaking ideas, prototypes, and startups. Out of this pool of talent, the Top 20 teams earned their place at the Grand Finale on June 12. From a buzzing Showcase Fair to an electrifying pitch competition, the finale was a celebration of creativity, ambition, and entrepreneurship. With the support of national and international partners, and the University of Twente, this edition empowered students to turn their ideas into impactful realities.
Now, it’s time to recognize the outstanding teams who took home the top awards:
🏆 Advanced Winner (€5,000): SimplyPill
Tackling medication non-adherence with smart technology
SimplyPill introduced PADDY, an intelligent pill dispenser paired with a user-friendly app. The system helps patients stay on track with their prescriptions by offering reminders, tracking intake, and sharing adherence data with caregivers and professionals. With nearly €125 billion lost annually in Europe due to poor adherence, SimplyPill provides a practical and powerful solution to a widespread healthcare problem.
💡 Ideation Winner (€3,000): Syndesis
Bringing live experiences to the elderly through VR
Syndesis combats loneliness among elderly residents by using immersive VR to deliver concerts, sports events, and cultural experiences straight to care homes. With trained staff facilitating use and a shared viewing experience, Syndesis helps foster connection and joy — making moments of engagement more accessible than ever.
🎶 ASML Makers Award (€2,500): Piano Lites
Revolutionizing piano learning with LEDs and gamification
Piano Lites makes piano practice engaging and accessible with a unique LED-guided keyboard system and a companion app. Users receive visual cues, performance feedback, and progress tracking — all enhanced with gamified features like achievements and levels. This project empowers aspiring musicians to learn at their own pace, even without access to private lessons.
🌍 Urenco Net Zero Award (€1,000) & ETCA Future Talent Award: CO₂ Electrolysis
Innovative approach to CO₂ reduction through electrolysis
This project offers a novel membraneless electrolysis cell that converts CO₂ into formic acid — a promising hydrogen carrier. The design reduces resistance, costs, and PFAS pollution while improving efficiency and sustainability. A cutting-edge solution aiming to close the carbon loop and move toward a net-zero future.
🗳️ Audience Award (€1,000): Tutor Me
Peer-to-peer academic support made accessible
Tutor Me addresses the shortage of student Teaching Assistants by creating a platform where students can easily find peer tutors. With no registration fees or commissions, the platform promotes academic success and equal access to support. It’s a student-driven solution to build an inclusive learning community.
Congratulations to all winners and finalists!
You’ve shown what’s possible when bold ideas meet determined action. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the UT Challenge 2025 — we’re already looking forward to seeing what next year’s edition will bring!
