Transforming ideas into present-day solutions to ensure a more sustainable future. With this in mind, Bondalti has just launched the ‘From Purpose to Impact’ programme, an initiative that challenges university students to embark on a transformative journey that combines sustainability, innovation and a positive impact on society.
Developed as part of the corporate social responsibility strategy called ‘Together Matters’, the ‘From Purpose to Impact’ programme's central objective is to develop solutions that respond to fundamental environmental challenges, through an integrated and immersive programme that allows students to gain entrepreneurial skills, collaborate with diverse teams and immerse themselves in the world of social innovation.
The challenge will cover two main themes: ‘Climate change adaptation and just transition’, focusing on solutions and technologies for the water sector, increasing its security and climate resilience; and ‘Green energy & Business 4.0’, centred on the development of green and renewable materials, supply chains and sustainable business models.
The programme is aimed at students from the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP) and the University of Aveiro (UA), entities with which Bondalti has a historical connection, and aims to strengthen this relationship between academy and industry, bringing together young talent and business leaders, social innovators and sustainability experts.
All students from the two institutions can take part, regardless of their degree programme, and projects carried out individually or in groups of up to five will be accepted.
In the end, after evaluation by a jury made up of Bondalti staff and industry personalities, prizes totalling €5,000 will be awarded, divided into three categories: ‘Bondalti Challenge - Best Overall Project’, ‘Best Sustainable Solution’ and ‘Best Entrepreneurship Project’. The projects will be judged on six key criteria: Creativity, Feasibility, Clarity and Quality of Pitch, Market Potential, Impact and Sustainability, and Team Collaboration and Leadership.
In addition to the monetary prizes, the winning students will also be offered exclusive experiences and advanced training courses, among other forms of recognition.
Until the ‘Hackaton Day’, scheduled for 15 May 2025, during which the projects will be discussed and presented and the winners found, participants will go through various stages that will inspire, guide and empower them along the ‘From Purpose to Impact’ journey, including interactive challenges and participation in masterclasses led by industry experts, focused on social innovation, green careers and leadership development.
Applications are open until 14 April.
Find out more about ‘From Purpose to Impact’ and its regulations here.
