Innovate for Impact: Marian Innovation Day 2026 Celebrates Student Visionaries
On May 13, 2026, Saint Mary’s University (SMU) transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity as the School of Accountancy and Business hosted Marian Innovation Day 2026. Under the theme “Innovate for Impact: Young Minds, Sustainable Solutions,” the event showcased the ingenuity of 731 students bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application.
The day featured two core activities: MINDSET 2026, a flagship startup pitch competition, and the Marian Entrepreneurs’ Expo, which provided a marketplace for student ventures and local MSMEs. These initiatives aimed to foster an entrepreneurial culture in Nueva Vizcaya, specifically aligning student projects with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The competition culminated in a final pitch session before a distinguished panel of experts: Ms. Kristine Dian Q. Calimag (DTI), Ms. Lolobeth Mendez (PROCEDE), Ms. Margaret Kaitlin McRae-Daniel (Muir Woods Academy), Mr. Kerwin N. Bayot (SMU PDPO), and Engr. Teofilo M. Sagabaen (SMU TTBDO). The winning solutions highlighted a sophisticated grasp of sustainability:
- Champion: Agri-Flare Innovations presented NOVOGAS & NOVOGROW, a community biodigester converting vegetable waste into fuel ((SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production).
- 2nd Place: VizSafe developed HarPer, an SMS-priority safety app for women (SDG 5: Gender Equality; SDG 11:Sustainable Cities and Communities).
- 3rd Place: Super Legendary Dream Team created SerbisyoNV, connecting residents with local service providers (SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Other notable winners included Strawlecious (edible straws) and i-LEGAL (digital compliance for MSMEs). Led by Chairperson Mrs. Sheryl A. Adducul-Baria, the event successfully proved that Marian student-entrepreneurs are the primary architects of a more sustainable future.
SDG 7,12,5,11,8
Written by: Aryan L. Yuzon
Photos by: SMU BOAE FB page
