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Criteria for the win was the best new technology with the greatest potential for a positive impact on society. Intel awarded the German team $25,000.
In addition, NRG Fuels team of Israel was awarded second place for its biodiesel production from micro algae growth technology. Third place was awarded to a Brazilian team for the vEYE, a navigation system for visually impaired people for greater autonomy. A team from Russia was named "audience favorite" for its battery-free electronics.
"These teams show how rich our global community is in its innovative and pioneering spirit," said William A. Swope, Intel Corporation vice president and general manager, Corporate Affairs Group. "Technology reaches its highest calling when it helps people. These projects have expanded possibilities for people around the world."
The competition was held at the Haas School of Business, in Berkeley, Calif., and hosted 21 teams from 11 countries. The program is designed to showcase global business opportunities that have the greatest potential for a positive impact on society through the deployment of new and truly innovative technologies. Not only does the winning team receive $25,000 and the winning title, but its members will also have direct visibility and interaction with more than 20 leading venture capitalist firms.
Founded in 2005 through a collaboration between UC Berkeley and Intel, IBTEC seeks to support and promote entrepreneurship globally, predominantly in developing countries. This year, business plans included ground-breaking topics such as an optical mouse for secure electronic transactions and a biosensor tool that gives winemakers the ability to make real-time decisions in the tending of their vineyards.
As part of Intel's Higher Education Program, The Intel+UC Berkeley Technology Entrepreneurship Education Program encourages and prepares students everywhere to become tomorrow's technology entrepreneurs. Teams are judged on their ability to make the greatest impact through the deployment of emerging and innovative technology products and services. Judges are selected from Bay Area venture firms with a global focus.
From local schools to global universities, Intel works to help improve the quality of education and drive innovation around the world. Over the past decade alone, Intel has invested more than $1 billion in cash and in-kind contributions to help teachers teach, students learn and universities innovate. -Intel