The "2024 National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition" hosted by National Chung Cheng University (CCU) successfully concluded on November 25. This competition provides a platform for domestic and international university students to develop innovative and entrepreneurial ideas. It encourages participants to integrate social development, classroom theories, and everyday observations into practical applications. Through DEMO presentations, students from universities nationwide engaged in mutual learning and exchange, showcasing vibrant ideas and concepts from young talents worldwide. The event fostered imagination and ambition among the younger generation, injected vitality and novel perspectives into the business world, and created opportunities for dreams to come true.

This year’s panel included five industry professionals and one academic professor. Their evaluations not only stimulated diverse thinking among students but also aimed to enhance competitiveness and cultural exchange by inviting participation from both domestic and international students. Participants and attendees alike benefited from the collaborative environment, exploring life’s possibilities, uncovering the strengths of innovative ideas, and embracing the entrepreneurial spirit.

To promote students’ passion for entrepreneurship and interest in innovation trends, the competition offered three tracks:
1. Thematic Track: AI Innovation and Entrepreneurship Applications
A team called "Little Cat Traveling Through Time," composed of students from National Chung Cheng University, National Cheng Kung University, and National Chengchi University, won the first prize with their innovative concept of AI-powered smart glasses for the visually impaired.
2. General Track: Open Theme
The first prize was awarded to "South Park," a team from National Chiao Tung University and National Chung Cheng University, for their blockchain platform that integrates pet insurance claims management, electronic medical records, and funeral services.
3. International Track: Crossing Borders, International Collaboration
A team of three international students from Ming Chi University of Technology impressed the judges with their proposal for a blood glucose monitoring device for diabetes patients, earning the top honor.

Additionally, other CCU teams excelled as well, including those that proposed AI-assisted CMOS circuit design and AR-integrated cultural space services. These projects received awards in the International Track and Thematic Track respectively, further showcasing the diverse and outstanding achievements of the participants.

The competition offered a total prize pool of NT$220,000 and attracted 66 teams, including 44 domestic teams (16 from northern Taiwan, 2 from central Taiwan, 15 from southern Taiwan, and 11 cross-university teams) and 22 international teams (from Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, India, and Indonesia, including one cross-university team spanning three schools). The intense competition yielded a wide array of remarkable results.

We look forward to seeing these ambitious students gain valuable experience from this event, and draw inspiration from their interactions with judges and peers. May they carry the momentum forward as they continue their entrepreneurial journeys!