The AlgaBiotec project, currently incubated at UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto, won 3rd prize in the 2025 edition of the 929 Challenge, held in Macau, also receiving an honourable mention for “Project with the Greatest Impact”.

AlgaBiotec was created with the aim of addressing two emerging challenges: the growing accumulation of macroalgae on the Portuguese coast and the increase in pollution associated with fossil-based plastics. The solution developed by the team is based on the transformation of coastal macroalgae into minimally processed biodegradable bioplastics. In addition to replacing fossil fuel-derived materials, this bioplastic stands out for its natural richness in nutrients, which allows it to be incorporated into the soil as fertiliser at the end of its life cycle, contributing to the circular economy and the sustainability of the agricultural sector.

The project stood out among 16 international initiatives dedicated to innovation and sustainability for its approach based on the valorisation of natural resources and the mitigation of environmental impacts. The team, composed of Isabel Oliveira, Isabel Cunha, Raquel Vaz and Paulo Patrício, is now looking to move forward with the formal establishment of a startup.

In 2024, the AlgaBioTec project was the big winner of the 4th edition of BluAct, the programme supporting the growth of start-ups in the blue economy organised by the Matosinhos City Council in partnership with UPTEC.

About the 929 Challenge

The 929 Challenge is a competition organised in Macau that brings together startups and university projects from Portuguese-speaking countries and China with the aim of bringing China closer to Portuguese-speaking countries. The competition aims to encourage the development of sustainable business models that strengthen this strategic bridge, while promoting international cooperation and entrepreneurship.

09 December 2025