The highly anticipated finale of the 2025 Cranfield-Colworth Innovation Challenge on 19 March 2025 showcased cutting-edge solutions to pressing scientific and industrial challenges, with one team emerging as the overall winners for their pioneering, AI-powered concept.

The competition, now in its seventh year, invites students from Cranfield University to propose innovative solutions to real-world challenges set by this year’s participating companies – Unilever, dsm-Firmenich, and Pioneer Group, owners of Colworth Science Park.

This year, the challenges focused on science, technology, and sustainability. The grand finale saw three standout teams recognised for their groundbreaking ideas and impressive presentations.

How Does the Challenge Work?

Each year, the challenges evolve through a co-creation workshop held in October. Stakeholders present real-world issues they face, followed by a voting process to select three final challenges, which are fully defined before the competition launch in January.

Participants from Cranfield University are invited to form multi-disciplinary teams, blending technical expertise with entrepreneurial insight to develop innovative solutions to these challenges.

In February, a mentoring day is held where challenge owners meet with the teams to ensure they are on the right track and provide any necessary supporting data.

Unveiling the 2025 Winners

Out of the seven entries for this year, three prize winners were selected at the grand finale at Colworth Science Park.

Overall Winners: Team Aquila 

Team Aquila’s AI-powered lab automation solution addressed the inefficiencies in laboratory environments caused by poor traceability and time-consuming documentation. Their AI Agent streamlines data logging, automates report generation, and enhances predictive analytics to improve lab productivity by up to 37%. This revolutionary approach promises to transform laboratory operations, reducing workload and ensuring more accurate and efficient data management.

Team Aquila was awarded a prize of £4,000.

Runners-Up: Team EcoBites 

Team EcoBites impressed the judges with their innovative approach to sustainable packaging. Their solution – a biodegradable, edible packaging material made from flax fiber and dammar gum – aims to replace conventional plastic-based food packaging. By combining sustainability with practicality, EcoBites’ innovation aligns with global efforts to reduce waste and promote a circular economy.

Team EcoBites won £2,000.

Wildcard Award: Team AIce Breakers 

The Wildcard Award was presented to Team AIce Breakers for their outstanding presentation of LABot, an intelligent lab assistant designed to automate repetitive laboratory tasks. LABot seamlessly integrates with existing laboratory management systems, significantly reducing inefficiencies and enhancing research workflows. The team’s compelling demonstration of LABot’s impact on modern labs secured them this special recognition.

Team AIce Breakers was selected as the Wildcard winner by the judges and awarded £1,000 in prize money.

Celebrating Innovation

The Cranfield-Colworth Innovation Challenge continues to foster the next generation of problem solvers and industry disruptors.

Commenting on the success of this year’s event, Keith Purdie, Commercial Director at Colworth Science Park, said:

“This year’s competition has demonstrated the incredible talent and ingenuity of Cranfield University’s students. From AI-driven lab automation to sustainable packaging solutions, the ideas presented have the potential to drive real change in their respective industries. Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and innovation.

“The competition not only provided a platform for students to showcase their creativity but also offered invaluable networking and mentorship opportunities with industry leaders. As innovation continues to be the driving force behind progress, the Cranfield-Colworth Innovation Challenge remains a catalyst for groundbreaking ideas that will shape the future.”

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