Split as a Global Stage for Innovation: Overview of STup!2024 Competition

University entrepreneurs from around the world once again gathered in Split to participate in the fifth edition of the international university startup competition STup!2024, held at the Faculty of Economics, University of Split. This year’s competition, organized in collaboration with the University Green Digital HUB, received strong support from local and international partners such as the City of Split, European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), HBOR, and HAMAG BICRO.

The competition brought together 28 selected startups from 18 countries worldwide, each presenting their innovative ideas to the jury in hopes of advancing to the final held on July 21st. The first day of the competition was marked by dynamic presentations across four categories, with each team allotted five minutes to pitch their ideas to the expert jury. In addition to the competitive segment, the program featured a series of educational panels and lectures on entrepreneurship and the role of universities in this sphere.

On the second day, the top twelve startups once again presented their ideas to the jury, with the winners announced at a ceremonial award ceremony. DELTAsort, a startup from the University of Zagreb, rightfully claimed the title of ‘Best University Startup 2024’, while second and third place went to SIGNVOX from the University of Split and MOVEABLY from the University of Belgrade, respectively. In addition to prestige, the winners received valuable cash prizes to further develop their ideas.

Particularly noteworthy was the Infobip Startup Award presented to MOVEABLY for their innovative use of Infobip’s communication technology. Alongside financial rewards, organizers secured support from Ledo and Split Tech City as a media partner, enriching the participant experience.

STup!2024 is not merely a competition but a platform fostering global idea exchange and networking among young entrepreneurs and professionals, aimed at developing their entrepreneurial and professional skills. Participants expressed satisfaction with the organization and opportunities to acquire new knowledge and contacts, emphasizing the importance of an international perspective in the development of their startups.