Fundación Copec-UC held the awards ceremony for the R&D to Innovate and Apply your Idea 2025 contests, recognizing initiatives with a scientific and technological foundation that focus on solving challenges with a social impact. The ceremony was led by the Foundation’s Chairman, Roberto Angelini, alongside Vice-chair Juan Carlos de la Llera, Rector of Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, as well as directors, board members, and the Foundation’s executive team.

Two initiatives were selected in the “R&D to Innovate” contest, each receiving up to UF 4,000 in funding. The first is PhageStop, from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, which proposes controlling Salmonella in white meat using bacteriophages without altering its properties. The second, MOFLiBone, from Universidad de Chile, is the first lithium-based resorbable biomaterial designed to stimulate bone regeneration and reduce the need for repeat medical procedures.

Meanwhile, the “Apply your Idea” Competition, aimed at higher education students, awarded $5 million pesos to IDEMIX, from Universidad de Chile, an initiative that develops sustainable biotextiles from textile waste to reduce landfill and regenerate soil. For the first time, the winner was selected during a Demo Day before a jury of Foundation advisors.

Roberto Angelini, chairman of Fundación Copec-UC, stated: “The projects we are recognizing today clearly reflect the kind of innovation the country needs to promote,” adding that, “the challenges we face do not allow for isolated solutions or short-term perspectives; on the contrary, we must build with the future in mind and the legacy we want to leave for those who will come after us.”