After reviewing the 92 innovative ideas submitted, 11 have made it to the grand finale, where they’ll compete for valuable prizes to help propel their social enterprises forward.

This year, PERUMIN Inspira launched a new edition aimed at fostering innovative ideas from institute and university students, enabling them to develop startups with social impact in the highlands and jungle of Peru.

The program has a single category, "Innovative Ideas," and received 92 submissions related to four of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) defined by the United Nations: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

From these submissions, the Technical Committee has selected 11 outstanding ideas that will compete in the final stage for the established prizes. The representatives of these projects will participate in the in-person event to be held in Lima at the end of October.

It is worth noting that there will be four winners, one for each prioritized SDG. They will receive S/ 5,000 in seed capital, digital technical support, specialized mentorship, project promotion on PERUMIN’s platforms and various media outlets, as well as benefits from allied organizations. Finally, the winner of the Grand PERUMIN Inspira Prize will be selected from among these four initiatives and will receive an additional S/ 5,000 to implement their innovative idea.

Finalists

Among the finalists for SDG 2 is GloMush, an initiative led by Johana Quispe (Arequipa) to combat food insecurity and create jobs through the production and commercialization of mushrooms as a protein-rich alternative to meat, using fewer resources and reducing environmental impact.

Also noteworthy is Ecósfera Fungitech, represented by Diana Paredes (Cusco). This project includes a technological module that automates the production of edible mushrooms using Industry 4.0 technology, promoting vertical farming and saving time, space, and resources.

Another finalist is Nutrigenix, led by Anthony López (Ancash). This idea aims to develop functional AI-enhanced snacks to improve nutrition in Peru's high jungle. It would use marine superfoods and exotic fruits to support local farmers and fishers.

For SDG 6, ECONIZA, represented by Josías Carhua (Junin), has advanced to the final stage. This project focuses on the neutralization of acidic waters using ash derived from cocoa by-products. It involves the design of an automated system to treat acidic waters using agricultural waste, improving water quality, and promoting a circular economy.

On the other hand, AquaLive, led by Silvia Fernández (Ancash), is also a finalist. AquaLive is an integrated digital platform for managing drinking water quality, using cutting-edge technologies like Big Data, Machine Learning, and data visualization to ensure access to safe drinking water.

For SDG 8, one of the finalists is TranStore, an initiative represented by Marlon Solís (Junin). TranStore aims to solve the problems generated by the commercial processes of traditional temporary sales modules.

Another finalist for this goal is WarminFIN, led by Jesusa Aiquipa (Cusco). This fintech provides financing and empowers women entrepreneurs in micro and small businesses through access to financial credit, financial education, and business innovation.

Also worth mentioning is "MIKUYKUSI-El placer del cacao," led by Cristian Huaytan (Huanuco). This company is dedicated to the full utilization of cocoa through the production of chocolates and distilled beverages, promoting circular economy and environmental sustainability.

For SDG 13, Hamcao, represented by Katia Ñaupari (Lima), stands out. This solution uses sulfated carbohydrates to reduce oxidative stress in plants, improving their resistance to water stress and increasing agricultural productivity in highland regions affected by frequent droughts.

In a similar vein is Agrobiofish, an initiative led by Daniela Mendoza (Arequipa). This project transforms fish waste into eco-friendly biofertilizers, thus combating environmental pollution and promoting sustainable, organic agriculture.

Finally, Hidranix, represented by Keneth Pérez (Arequipa), is also a finalist. Hidranix presents innovative hydrogen stoves that use water in an ecological and efficient way, transforming traditional cooking.