On 23 September 2025, the EIT Higher Education Initiative Community hosted the first-ever HEIPowered startup pitch competition. 

Eight promising startups from across Europe, all of them supported by EIT Higher Education Initiative's projects since 2021, competed for the chance to win cash prizes up to 10000€ as well as expert mentoring and a paid trip to Brussels to pitch on the main stage  at the EIT Alumni CONNECT event and get visibility during the EIT Education and Skills Days. 

Each team was given a three-minute window to deliver their elevator pitch. Here is a snapshot of what each startup brought to the table. 

Tiago Andrade shared how Wisify Tech Solution helps nutrition and sports professionals save time and boost visibility with smart tools that combine artificial intelligence (AI), precision devices and client apps. They have over 100 clients in 12 countries and strong partnerships with universities and hospitals. 

Dr Alexander Speakman demonstrated how E.V.A Biosystems makes smart plastics that biodegrade on cue, starting with Polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The team comprises of four PhDs and has received several awards and investments, including from Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.  

Anastasiia Dmytriv presented VitalisLacto, which delivers potent, affordable probiotics using a certified Lactobacillus strain, which is ideal for supplements or yoghurt. They have secured grants, sold over 350 packages and partnered with 12 B2B clients.

Gerasimos Arvanitis explained how AviSense boosts autonomous vehicle safety with advanced perception technology. They have secured over €1 million in funding, several awards and equipped a fully electric vehicle for testing with strategic partners.

Ivan Arsić  provided insight into Composmartech’s solar-powered smart composters, which turn farm waste into high-quality compost, cutting fertiliser use. With strong demand in the Balkans, they’re preparing for EU expansion.

Kristi Lember introduced ÄIO, which creates sustainable oils and fats via fermentation, using 97% less land. They operate a pilot plant and collaborate with over 100 partners, testing their ingredients worldwide.

Surya Yadav shared how Aveksana has developed an AI platform called Artha, which cuts grant writing from hundreds of hours to just one. The platform has organically grown to over 22,000 users and is piloting with universities and industry leaders in Europe and Asia. 

Erich Reiter demonstrated how SAY IT Labs designs brain-based video games for people with speech or language disorders. Their first game, Stutter Stars, is available on major app stores, and they plan to launch additional games addressing articulation and literacy.

Each pitch was followed by a 10-minute Q&A session where jury members had the chance to dig deeper and ask questions to better understand the startups and their potential. 

Once all the teams delivered their pitches, the jury stepped away to deliberate. On their return, the winners were announced, bringing the competition to a close. 

• First place (10000€ prize): E.V.A Biosystems – celebrated for their innovative approach to tackling plastic pollution with biodegradable plastics. 

• Second place (5000€ prize): ÄIO – recognised for their diverse applications and strong potential for sustainable revenue growth.

• Third place (2000€ prize): SAY IT Labs – applauded for their gamified approach to speech therapy. 
  

Watch the full recording from the pitches and the award ceremony. 

Looking ahead  

The jury was thoroughly impressed and congratulated the startups for their innovative ideas and meaningful contributions to society. All founders were encouraged to stay engaged, tap into the vibrant EIT community and build momentum through future events and collaborations.  

As for our winners, the next exciting step will take Alexander, Kristi and Erich to Brussels, where they’ll have a booth representing their startup at the EIT Education & Skills Days and will pitch their solutions on the main stage at the EIT Alumni CONNECT event. These two events are a great opportunity to network with fellow innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors from across Europe. If you’re attending, be sure to connect with them!