STI Engineering Students Won at StartUp QC

By: Graceline Marcelo , June 19, 2024

Four students from STI College Muñoz-EDSA won the bronze award at the StartUp QC Student Competition held at the Matrix Creation Events Venue in Quezon City last May 16, 2024.

The StartUp QC Student Competition fosters innovative business ideas among the youth by supporting startup ventures with incubation, financial grants, and mentorship sessions. It further aims to help students understand business intricacies through seminars and hands-on experiences.

Out of 82 applications from various colleges and universities, 39 teams were nominated as finalists, including STI College Muñoz-EDSA.

Team STI won for their Portable Hydroponics Project
Team STI won for their Portable Hydroponics Project
Team STI won for their Portable Hydroponics Project
Team STI won for their Portable Hydroponics Project
Team STI won for their Portable Hydroponics Project

Representing STI College Muñoz-EDSA were 4th year BS in Computer Engineering (BSCpE) students—Marianne Jane R. Acebo, Arman James T. Andres, Elaine L. Carillo, and Rojammarh A. Casas. These students were guided by their coaches, Academic for External Affairs Engr. Devie Patricio and Business Management professor Mrs. Ellen Cabrera.

The students faced numerous challenges, including building their business concept and developing a functional prototype. They dedicated long hours to research, prototype construction, and market analysis.

"The biggest challenge we faced was managing our time effectively while balancing internships and project development," said Acebo, the thesis leader.

Their project, initially conceived as a thesis, took eight months to develop and involved testing with real materials.

The Portable Hydroponics: The winning innovation developed by Computer Engineering students of STI College Muñoz-EDSA
The Portable Hydroponics: The winning innovation developed by Computer Engineering students of STI College Muñoz-EDSA
The Portable Hydroponics: The winning innovation developed by Computer Engineering students of STI College Muñoz-EDSA

Portable Hydroponics uses water-based nutrients, LED lighting, and automation to ensure year-round plant growth. This compact, soil-free system efficiently grows fresh, chemical-free produce in limited spaces, promoting sustainability.

“The takeaway in this experience is learning and continuing to move forward,” Andres said in an interview. "The school supported and guided us, and throughout our journey, and our coaches motivated us to give our best until the end," he added.

The StartUP QC Program is just one of the many opportunities that give STI students a deeper understanding of business, reinforced by the school's support and encouragement to push their boundaries and prepare them for real world challenges.