What do a laboratory tray that reduces plastic waste, an app that supports communication and 3D-printed organ models have in common? They were devised by young innovators who want to make the world smarter, cleaner or more socially inclusive with their ideas. And on 15 October, five of them will take centre stage in Nijmegen during the final of The Netherlands’ Most Innovative Student 2026.
INNOVATE It not only gives students with innovative ideas the chance to present their innovations. Participants gain access to knowledge, coaching, visibility and a network that can help them take their innovation further. Even after the final, participants receive additional support to help their innovation grow further and make an impact.
Five innovations, five ways to make a difference
The five finalists demonstrate just how diverse innovation can be.
Alba Villagrasa Martín | IsoraLabs
Alba Villagrasa Martín from Maastricht University is developing the IsoraPlate: a new generation of laboratory plates that prevents cross-contamination, enables multiple experiments and reduces plastic waste.
Alice Haywood | AutiMelody
Alice Haywood from the University of Groningen is developing an app that uses music and melodies to support communication for people with severe intellectual disabilities when words are not enough.
Alexandra-Iuliana Spiridon-Scurtu | CellaCure Technologies
Using modular 3D printers, medical scans are converted into realistic, patient-specific organ models. This enables surgeons to practise complex operations in advance.
Fumi Lesné-Akiyama | Nemean BioLabs
Fumi Lesné-Akiyama of Maastricht University is working on a bio-based coating that prevents bacterial growth in industrial heat exchangers. This innovation thereby reduces energy loss and the use of harmful chemicals.
Benjamin A O’Regan | ORB Dynamics
Benjamin A O’Regan from Delft University of Technology is developing autonomous hydrogen-powered airships for cost-effective and low-emission inspection of large-scale infrastructure.
Innovative talent from our own region too
Young innovation talent from our Lifeport region also took part. Romy Doorn from HAN University of Applied Sciences (Arnhem) was among the ten selected participants with her project P.U.L.S.E. (Parkinson Utility for Living, Speech & Exercise). Although P.U.L.S.E. did not make it through to the final, the innovation was given another excellent platform: an exhibition space during Dutch Design Week 2026.
From a good idea to real impact
At 15 October The five finalists will be at De Vasim on the NYMA site in Nijmegen. In front of a live audience and a panel of experts, they will pitch their innovations and compete for the title The Netherlands’ Most Innovative Student 2026.
But perhaps the platform itself is just as important. Good ideas alone are not enough to make an impact. Young innovators also need opportunities to develop their ideas, meet people and raise the profile of their innovations.
That is why we can be proud that INNOVATE is giving these young innovators a major platform right here, in our Lifeport region. This gives ideas that can improve people’s lives and our world the chance to develop further.
