Student innovation recognised at 2026 MEC x Airwallex Student Startup Competition Finals

Image credit: Adam Thomas Photography
Image credit: Adam Thomas Photography

Eight student teams from across the University of Melbourne's faculties were finalists at the 2026 MEC x Airwallex Student Startup Competition Finals, pitching their startup ideas to a live audience and panel of judges at Melbourne Connect.

The annual competition, run by the Melbourne Entrepreneurial Centre (MEC), showcases student-led innovation from across the University, with teams creating solutions to real-world challenges. Open to students of all experience levels, the program provides a practical pathway into entrepreneurship through a series of hands-on workshops, mentoring sessions and collaborative team development.

Over several weeks, participants progressed from early-stage concepts to refined pitches, building skills in problem-solving, communication and venture creation. The Finals marked the culmination of this journey, with the top eight teams competing for a share of over $15,000 in prizes.

2026 award recipients:

  • First place: HearAble
  • Second place: Dr. Fetch
  • Third place: Access to Justice
  • Airwallex People’s Choice Award: Dr. Fetch
  • Colin McLeod Entrepreneurial Excellence Award: Valora Foods

L-R: First place winners Richie Huang and Divyesh Ojha (HearAble) L-R: First place winners Richie Huang and Divyesh Ojha (HearAble)

The competition was sponsored and supported by Airwallex, NextGen Ventures, the University of Melbourne Genesis Pre-Seed Fund, Tin Alley Ventures and the Wade Institute.

The competition also connects students with the University’s broader innovation ecosystem. Following the finals event, participants have the opportunity to continue developing their ideas through further programs, including the newly announced MEC Student Incubator.