Mare Sustentable, a startup incubated at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) at Universidad ORT Uruguay in Universidad ORT Uruguay, was named the winner of BiGPitch 2024.
This competition, held on November 21 during the Mueve AJE Conecta event at BASF Haus, brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and international experts under the theme“venture capital and sustainability.”
BiGPitch is organized by the Da Vinci Foundation and the Association of Young Entrepreneurs (AJE).
The competition focuses on the new wave of startups backed by incubators and entrepreneurial support centers across Uruguay.
In its 17th edition, the event featured projects from the CIE, the Entrepreneurship Center of the Faculty of Economic Sciences at Udelar, Initium at the University of Montevideo, Ingenio at LATU, the Uruguayan Chamber of Industries, Socialab, and Thales Lab.
Circular Economy and Inclusive Employment
Mare Sustentable addresses a key issue: the improper management of rural waste, such as silo bags.
Their business model is based on the circular economy, reusing these materials to produce bags, backpacks, toiletries bags, and other sustainable products.
This approach not only helps protect the environment, but also promotes inclusive employment by supporting vulnerable women through decentralized workshops held in various parts of the country.
An event for inspiration and networking
Behind this innovative project is Andrea Ramagli, a graduate of ORT’s Bachelor’s degree program in Communication with a concentration in Journalism.
Thanks to its vision and commitment, Mare Sustentable has established itself as a leader in sustainability and social entrepreneurship, with ambitious plans for expansion in Latin America.
The motto that drives Mare Sustentable is: “We are a community, we make a positive impact, we are the circular economy.”
The support of ORT's CIE has been instrumental in its development, reinforcing the university's commitment to promoting innovative projects that have a positive impact.
BiGPitch was part of an event that combined inspirational talks, networking opportunities, and appearances by national and international leaders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Mueve AJE Conecta, organized by the Da Vinci Foundation and AJE, is recognized as a hub for strengthening entrepreneurial capital in Uruguay.
Outlook and Future Challenges
Mare Sustentable continues to work toward scaling up its model, increasing production capacity, and generating an even greater environmental and social impact.
With its recent success, the company reaffirms its mission to turn waste into opportunities and to become a regional leader in the circular economy.