14 July 2026
SPARCS Wins NOVA ImpACT! Challenges 2026
SPARCS, a modular solar energy solution developed by students from NOVA School of Science and Technology | NOVA FCT, was named the overall winner of the ImpACT! Challenges 2026, whose Demo Day took place on 13 July at Auditorium B, Campolide Campus. The programme also recognised initiatives addressing inclusive mobility and sustainable housing.
This year’s edition brought together nine teams, all of which took part in the ImpACT! Challenges programme, an initiative that supports students, researchers and entrepreneurs in developing and validating innovative responses to social and environmental challenges.
The €2,000 first prize was awarded to the team composed of Rui Guilherme Vaz Gonçalves, António Miguel Teixeira Vicente and Manuel João Mendes. SPARCS aims to tackle challenges related to energy scarcity and unreliable access to power through an innovative approach to solar energy. The solution is based on independent mini modules that can be connected both mechanically and electrically without the need for tools or cables, allowing users to assemble, reconfigure and expand the system with ease.
The jury also awarded two Honourable Mentions.
One of them recognised VEM – Mobility with Dignity, an initiative developed by Daniela Seabra and Marco Santos that seeks to create a new category of assisted mobility. The concept works as a “human Uber”, connecting people with mobility limitations to companions who provide support during their journeys, promoting greater independence and inclusion.
The second Honourable Mention was awarded to FungiFoam, developed by Valentin Scheiermann, Marlon Castillo, Margarida Ramos and Gustavo Brito, from NOVA FCT and the University of Aveiro. The initiative focuses on the development of high-performance thermal insulation panels made from mycelium, offering a more sustainable alternative to conventional materials while helping to improve thermal comfort in homes.
The Demo Day marked the culmination of three weeks of work, training and mentoring, concluding with the public presentation of the teams’ proposals before a jury comprising Isabel Rocha, NOVA Vice-Rector for Innovation, Value Creation and Global Affairs; Manuel Gaspar, Head of Programmes at Casa do Impacto; Carlos Resende, member of AngelsWay and the Founder Institute; and João Silva, Head of Data & Tech and Public Policy at Startup Portugal.