Fraunhofer Portugal Challenge: The challenge for creative (and technological) minds is back

Master’s students from Portuguese universities can now submit their innovative proposals to the 16th edition of the Fraunhofer Portugal Challenge, the technology-based ideas competition organised annually by Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS (FhP-AICOS), a research centre based at UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto.

The Fraunhofer Portugal Challenge, known for encouraging creativity and technological innovation, has two categories: the Master Thesis Award and the Student Award. In the Master Thesis Award category, the best ideas based on academic theses are distinguished with scientific prizes totalling six thousand euros, distributed among the top three winners (1st place – €3,000, 2nd place – €2,000 and 3rd place – €1,000). The Student Award category is open to all master’s students who present the most promising technological idea, regardless of whether it is based on an academic thesis. In addition to a cash prize of three thousand euros, the winner of this category also receives mentoring and support from FhP-AICOS researchers, providing a unique opportunity to develop their idea.

Applications should focus on Fraunhofer Portugal AICOS’ areas of scientific excellence: User-Centred Design, Artificial Intelligence and Cyber-Physical Systems. The aim of the challenge is not only to reward innovation, but also to promote the transformation of ideas into real solutions that boost economic development and improve quality of life. Applications can be submitted until 31 July on the official competition website.

About the Fraunhofer Portugal Challenge

Since 2010, the Fraunhofer Portugal Challenge has established itself as a platform of excellence for connecting academic talent with industry, encouraging applied research and collaboration, enabling master’s students to take a decisive step in their career path and helping to drive the future of technology in Portugal.