The event ‘Sigue Ingeniando’, held at the University of La Laguna, marked the final stage of the seventh edition of the Ingenia program, an initiative jointly promoted by the university and the Cabildo of Tenerife. The program aims to foster innovative initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During the gathering, the nine finalist projects were presented, showcasing the talent and creativity of young entrepreneurs from Tenerife. The proposals covered diverse areas, including cultural heritage conservation (ABC Patrimonio), animal welfare in tourism (Animal Wise), community tourism with AI support (Barranco Vivo), youth sexual health (Be Nurse), and the connection between mental health, nutrition, and sustainability (CULLtiva el bienestar).
Other presented projects included Limpilla, which develops a biopesticide from Canarian plants against the invasive cochineal; MIRAMAR, bringing the marine environment closer through virtual reality experiences; RENUEVO, an electrochemical technology to remove nitrates from groundwater in the Valle de La Orotava; and Water Challenge League, addressing inefficient water consumption in Icod de los Vinos.
At the event's opening, Marta Domínguez, Vice-Rector for Sustainability and Infrastructure at the ULL, highlighted the trajectory and the human and social character of Ingenia, emphasizing the importance of the connection between the university and its surroundings. Efraín Medina, Minister of Education, Employment, and Youth of the Cabildo of Tenerife, reaffirmed the island corporation's commitment to the initiative and collaboration for a fairer society.
Juan Antonio Rodríguez, the program's academic director, presented the key features of Ingenia and announced upcoming novelties for the next edition, stressing its dual purpose: learning for young people and contributing to global change. The event also provided a dialogue space for invited companies to explore the projects' potential as investment opportunities.
Julio Brito, manager of the General Foundation of the ULL, closed the meeting by focusing on how the challenges presented raise awareness and sensitize participants about environmental care. The call for the eighth edition will open soon, introducing a new participation line based on challenges posed by local companies, thereby strengthening the link between education, innovation, and knowledge transfer.
