Past Events
A look back
oikos Catalyst 2026: “Reinventing Impact: Strategies for Change in a Volatile World”
oikos Catalyst 2026 was the third edition of the sustainable pitching competition. The event was held in collaboration with the NextGen Impact Forum, and together with oikos Solar, start-up companies focused on renewable energies presented their ideas for driving change in an increasingly volatile world.
6
Startups pitched
60
People attended
CHF 4,000
Prize money rewarded
oikos Catalyst 2025: “Today's Action, Tomorrow's Cities”
oikos Catalyst 2025 was the second edition of the new sustainable pitching competition. The event was in collaboration with Student Impact and it took a focus on urban-focused sustainable startups. Here we tackled the challenges of carbon emissions, urban sustainability and circular resource use by supporting innovative startups across energy, construction, mobility and digital solutions. From real-time emission tracking and composting toilets to smart packaging, parking optimization and advanced building materials, these ventures are redefining how cities and industries operate sustainably, driving systemic change toward a cleaner, more resilient future.
7
Startups pitched
60
People attended
CHF 1,500
Prize money rewarded
oikos Catalyst 2024: “The Future of Food”
oikos Catalyst 2024 was the first edition of the new sustainable pitching competition. The inauguration event was dedicated to revolutionising Switzerland's food sector. We tackled issues like food waste and overconsumption, aiming for a more sustainable future, by supporting the startups in the food sector in receiving funding.
4
Startups pitched
60
People attended
CHF 2,500
Prize money rewarded
Retrospective by Tom Weltevreden, Project Head '24 & Founder
“A rollercoaster of ups and downs, but with a looping in the end! From the exhilaration of securing sponsors, jury members, and getting startups to join our cause, to the humbling lessons learned through failed pitches, delayed responses, and unexpected logistical hiccups (who knew room reservations could be so unpredictable?), every twist and turn has been a test of our determination and passion for this project. But the result that we received in the end made it all worth it.”
How It Works
Over the past three editions, Catalyst has brought together sustainable startups, industry experts, investors, and students at the SQUARE at the University of St.Gallen. The event follows a clear and engaging format designed to give each startup the opportunity to present its idea, receive valuable feedback, and connect with a wider audience.
Each participating startup has five minutes to deliver an elevator pitch, introducing its business, the problem it addresses, and the solution it offers. Following the pitch, the three-member jury has the opportunity to ask follow-up questions and learn more about the startup's potential, impact, and business model.
Once all startups have presented, the jury discusses the pitches and selects the winner of the Jury Prize. At the same time, the audience gets involved by voting for the startup they believe should receive the Audience Prize.
The competition is followed by a networking Apéro, giving students the chance to engage directly with the participating startups, jury members, and other industry experts. This creates an informal setting for exchanging ideas, building connections, and exploring opportunities beyond the competition itself.
Testimonials
“Initiatives like these are super important for startups like us, and sustainability in general. Having participated here was a wonderful opportunity. Keep it up!”
Marius Semm: Niatsu (Winner 2024)
“Thanks for having me. The event turned out great and we from Foodward are very happy to be part of it. If there are any food related events in the future, we are more than happy to participate again!”
Philipp Schnöll: Foodward (Jury Member & Sponsor 2024)
“I think it is great and important what you guys are building here. I see that a lot of work has gone into this and appreciate your effort and commitment to creating something like this.”
Karen Gräfensteiner: Gräfensteiner SRE (Jury Member 2024)