Brandeis Innovation Ideation Workshop 2024
Students gathered at Shapiro Science Center for the Ideation Workshop. Participants were divided into three groups, each addressing a specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) challenge: Kids Malnutrition (SDG 2), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9).
The first group, led by Juan Giraldo, focused on making nutritious food more accessible and affordable for low-income families, educating children and parents on the importance of nutrition, and encouraging schools and communities to prioritize healthy meals for children. Within a short time, participants proposed providing incentives for local shops to offer discounted prices to low-income families.
The second group, facilitated by Gianna Saludo, tackled the issue of reducing single-use plastics. The group explored ways to encourage businesses and consumers to adopt reusable products, educate communities about the environmental impact of single-use plastics, and promote sustainable practices. They developed an innovative solution for the food and hospitality industry: using biodegradable materials—specifically pasta ware—instead of non-recyclable plastics.
Lastly—the third group, facilitated by Kapi Naidul, addressed the issue of making internet access and affordable devices accessible to underserved communities. They came up with the solution of a device recycling center where there are incentives for donors who donate devices, subsidized phone plans, and collaboration with tech corporations.
During the workshop, students brainstormed ideas using the "Crazy 8" and "Yes, and..." methods, which fostered creativity and encouraged the development of unique and unconventional solutions. By the end of the session, participants gained valuable skills in brainstorming, emphasizing the value of embracing bold and innovative ideas within their teams.
The workshop also served as a preparation for the upcoming Spark Program, which opened applications on September 16, 2024. Under the program, Spark funding is available for the most promising projects, with the funding amount determined by the scope of the project and disbursed based on milestone achievements. Interested students, faculty, and staff can apply and register through this link: https://www.brandeis.edu/innovation/grant-programs/spark/index.html