#tbt 5G Hub Innovation Challenge 2021

#tbt 5G Hub Innovation Challenge 2021

On June 29th, 2021, the Final Round of the very first 5G Hub Innovation Challenge took place at the High Tech Campus Conference Center. Despite the uncomfortable scenario caused by the pandemic, the finalists put on a great show, and both the few people in the audience and everyone watching the live stream were blown away by their projects.

Fast-forward to 2022, and the 5G Hub Innovation Challenge is back with an exceptional theme: sustainability. The question “How can your 5G-related solution contribute to a better world?” was the starting point for all the teams that applied for the competition. Six of them moved on to the last phase of the Challenge, and the final round is just around the corner: on June 29th, 2022 (yes, exactly one year after the first edition’s; how cool is that?), we’ll see the six teams back on stage. They are ready to present their updated pitches to impress the jury and wow the audience—which, this time, will be crowded.

So we decided to warm up for the occasion by asking our colleagues and partners: “What was your favorite aspect of the previous 5G Hub Innovation Challenge?” Some of the respondents were part of the first edition’s organization; others were part of the jury; some were guests and enjoyed the event in the audience. Not surprisingly, many praised the positive, collaborative atmosphere among all parties involved and the incredible presentations the contestants brought to the stage. Check out what the 5G Hub team and ecosystem fond memories of the 5G Hub Innovation Challenge 2021.

I praise the 5G Hub Innovation Challenge 2021 for…

The vibe

“When looking back at the final round of the last Innovation Challenge, I am really inspired by the positive energy radiated by everyone involved. It is very stimulating to see that a group of random participants gets so motivated by shared values and beliefs. This is so powerful that I believe we can move mountains together!” (Gert-Jan Elzinga, Strict; 5G Hub Innovation Challenge Team member)

“All the great minds that came together: from different disciplines, backgrounds, and levels of experience… And all were open to listening and inspiring each other. Besides, there was a 1 + 1 = 3 vibe: the new connections made and the willingness to support each other in the journey to collectively strive to improve the world we live in. It was an amazing opportunity to hear and see thoughts and ideas beyond my imagination.” (Iris Hertsenberg, Ericsson; jury member)

“It was a pleasure to be part of the core team organizing the first-ever 5G Hub Innovation Challenge. Now, seeing the Challenge grow is exciting! I love how experts from different companies come together in different stages of the Challenge offering voluntary mentoring or being part of the jury. Adding a sustainability theme as a focus is fantastic to show the real positive impact of the 5 G’s potential. It doesn’t stop here: the ecosystem will keep supporting innovations all the way to the market.” (Victor Donker, Usono/PSV/TU Eindhoven; 5G Hub Innovation Challenge Team member)

The competition

Melanie Maximus on stage

“I was very impressed by the teams’ improvements since the day they entered the Innovation Challenge. In two months, they pulled off a lot of work and were able to show it with very professional and mature presentations during the finals.” (Senna Kloosterman, Ericsson; 5G Hub Innovation Challenge Team member)

“I was positively surprised by the creative ideas submitted for the Innovation Challenge. Really inspiring to hear (and see) their views on how 5G could benefit their concepts and products. My technical heart started to beat quicker with every pitch, and my brain could visualize scenarios in which 5G could benefit their cases. The drinks afterward were also something to remember. Networking automatically resulted in brainstorming about possible solutions. I hope that the next Innovation Challenge brings at least the same amount of creativity. I love the surprise factor.” (Richard Prins, VodafoneZiggo; guest)

The organization

“I was fascinated by the first edition of the 5G Hub Innovation Challenge. The core team and judges did a formidable job selecting great startups to pitch on stage, showcasing 5G-related ideas. The event itself was inspiring, challenging, and impressive, and the host was fantastic. I can’t wait for the next edition!” (Hilde de Vocht, High Tech Campus; guest)

“I really liked the short interviews with the jury members between each pitch. The jury is such an integral part of the Challenge, but they are usually in the shadows. So it was wonderful to put them in the spotlight and show them our appreciation. Besides, it gave the event another layer of dynamism.” (Letícia Batista, 5G Hub; 5G Hub Innovation Challenge Team member)

What to expect from the next edition?

Audience Choice winners – Voltgoed

Aircision, CityLegends, Connec2, Integer, Skyebase, and Techbinder will present their 5G-powered solutions for a better, more sustainable world, competing for a tailor-made co-creation program at the 5G Hub with guidance and support from our ecosystem of partners. The audience will also vote for their favorite project, which will receive a special prize.

To learn more about the event and get your tickets, please visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/5g-hub-innovation-challenge-final-round-tickets-348629729907.