We spoke to 3 winners chosen by the jury and audience. Siena Kinsale (SwishCups), Georgina Lara Booth (CaseCanvas) and Martin Michaux (NOX Energy) talk about how they experienced the challenge and what their next step will be.

Can you briefly tell us what your business plan entails?

Martin: NOX Energy is software that bridges electricity markets and manufacturers of energy-efficient assets (such as heat pumps, EVs, solar panels and batteries). It aims to become the global platform that helps stabilise the electricity grid.

Siena: SwishCups is a circular company that aims to reduce plastic waste by selling PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) cups that are biodegradable, reusable and recyclable. PHA is made by feeding bacteria a plant-based raw material (e.g. starch, sugars or vegetable oils). The cups can be reused, recycled when broken and once exposed to bacteria in nature, the cup can biodegrade completely.

Georgina: My startup - CaseCanvas - is a Legal Tech AI storytelling app. It aims to help victims of crimes (e.g. domestic or sexual violence) tell their stories during the legal process. It is difficult for victims to communicate about such crimes with authorities, such as the police. Through AI, this app makes it easier for victims to tell their stories.

Why did you choose to participate in the UvA EB Challenge?

Georgina: The competition provides a platform for students to develop their innovative ideas for social and entrepreneurial issues. With my start-up, I hope to provide a solution to a social problem, so that fitted well with the challenge.

Siena: I thought it would be a great opportunity to tell more people about the benefits of replacing plastic with PHA. And I thought it would be inspiring to meet other students who are also setting up a start-up.

Martin: A friend of mine told me about the challenge. At the time, I was setting up my start-up and I wanted to practice pitching so that I could promote it further.

What will be your next step?

Siena: I’ll invest in the growth of SwishCups. The next step is to help different organisations (such as universities, festivals, events) make the circular switch from plastic to PHA cups.

Georgina: I would like to raise more funds and find partners to support my startup. Violence against women is a big problem worldwide, so I hope to help as many victims as possible with CaseCanvas.

Martin: Building a professional network and conquering the Dutch market!

Want to join the next UvA EB Challenge? Pre-registration for the 2025 competitionExternal link has started.