We are delighted to share the successful conclusion of Mindspace University VI, our innovative 5-week online program designed to develop entrepreneurial skills, this time with a focus on Sustainability & Circular Economy. This year’s cycle, organized and delivered by esteemed entrepreneurs, mentors, and judges from Silicon Valley, Greece, and Europe, along with dedicated Mindspace staff, has been a remarkable journey of learning, networking, and innovation.
Mindspace University VI was divided into two parts. In the 4-week Educational Part, teams received comprehensive education and mentoring on entrepreneurship basics, sustainability, and the circular economy. The top 8 teams advanced to the 1-week Entrepreneurial Part, where they received personalized training and competed in a final pitch event for cash prizes and other incentives.
Mentors and Special Guest Speakers
We were honored to have an outstanding lineup of mentors and special guest speakers who contributed their expertise and insights to the program:
- Spyros Tsoukalas: Venture Builder and No-Code Expert
- Yonas Samuel Halala: Chief Servant at Maado, who delivered a session on the Business Model Canvas
- George Varvarelis: CEO of Augmenta and Past Mindspace University Winner
- Jocelyne Landry Tsonang: Environmental & Nature Resource Management Expert
- Anastasis Stamatis: CEO at Dataphoria
- Maria Gianniou: Empowerment & Leadership Coach and Corporate Trainer
- Kamila Sidor: Mindfulness & Public Speaking Trainer
Their valuable contributions provided participants with practical knowledge, inspiration, and guidance, enhancing the overall learning experience.
Prizes and Recognition
We are proud to announce the winners of Mindspace University VI:
First Place: Awarded 5,000 euros and 50% off participation in the Mindspace Trip to the USA.
Second Place: Awarded 3,000 euros and 30% off participation in the Mindspace Trip to the USA.
Third Place: Awarded 2,000 euros and 25% off participation in the Mindspace Trip to the USA.
Fourth and Fifth Place: Each awarded 20% off participation in the Mindspace Trip to the USA.
The teams and the ideas
1st place: Everloop
The idea: Everloop is transforming waste management by turning waste into valuable resources through AI-powered sorting, smart bins, and a blockchain-based platform. This end-to-end solution promotes a transparent circular economy, enabling upcycled materials to be traded with full traceability. By minimizing landfill waste and enhancing sustainability, Everloop creates new economic opportunities and supports a greener future.
Team members: Efstathios Siatras, Christos Karatzias and Marilia Karvouni.
2nd place: Green Minds The idea: "Bump it down!" is an AI-based solution that helps municipalities detect potholes. By equipping local government vehicles with cameras and GPS, and using AI to process the data, it provides a live map of potholes. This enables efficient prioritization of repairs, aiming to create safer and more accessible roads while addressing the significant economic impact of pothole repairs in the EU. Team members: Vicky Anagnostopoulou, Konstantina Karkantzou, Eleni Kakouri, Athanasios Cheimonas and Paschalis Sarras. 3rd place: E2C
The idea: In Greece, small and medium-sized sustainable producers are often overshadowed by larger corporations. Earth2Customer (E2C) aims to level the playing field by partnering exclusively with Greek producers committed to sustainability. E2C offers subscription, gift, and mystery boxes filled with eco-friendly products, from consumables to soaps. Additionally, E2C’s sophisticated web application fosters an engaged eco-community by turning sustainability education into an interactive and gamified experience. Team members: Marios Samaras, Fragkiskos Maragoudakis, Panos Charasanakis and Agapitos Patakas
Building Networks and Inspiring Innovation
Mindspace University VI successfully created strong networks between students and mentors, inspiring participants to innovate within their professions and tackle future challenges. The program provided a unique platform for students to gain practical knowledge, develop essential skills, and form lasting professional relationships.
As we celebrate the success of this year’s program, we look forward to continuing our mission to empower future entrepreneurs and innovators. Stay tuned for more updates and upcoming programs.