In the 2025 Potential Startup Projects – CTU Startup 2nd Expanded Competition was held on December 17 at Can Tho University, as part of Can Tho City’s Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation Week 2025 (CASTID 2025), the project “KAIRO – Air-Filtering Bricks from Rice Husks and Biochar” from TVU team was awarded an Encouragement Prize.
The competition served as a platform for students to foster creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, providing valuable hands-on experience in idea generation, business planning, and project implementation. More than just a challenge, the 2025 Potential Startup Projects – CTU Startup 2nd Expanded Competition offered students opportunities to network, exchange knowledge, and connect with others who share a passion for entrepreneurship. Through the competition, participants received mentorship and professional guidance from experts and gained opportunities to collaborate with potential investors, helping transform innovative startup ideas into reality.
The competition attracted 52 project submissions from universities nationwide, spanning diverse fields such as technology, environmental solutions, agriculture, innovative entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. All participating projects demonstrated creativity and strong potential in applying science and technology to practical solutions, contributing to the sustainable development of communities.
In the Final Round, 11 teams presented their projects before the judging panel and investors, based on pre-announced evaluation criteria including feasibility, originality, technological application, and development strategy. This stage provided teams with the opportunity to showcase their innovation and persuasive capabilities while capturing the attention of potential investors and strategic partners.
The KAIRO project, developed by Tran Minh Phuong and Bui Hoang Liem Thanh, students of Tra Vinh University, received an Encouragement Prize. This achievement reflects not only the team’s persistent efforts but also their creativity and strong commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. It marks another significant milestone, affirming the capacity and potential of Tra Vinh University students in the field of innovative entrepreneurship.
“Through participating in the competition, the KAIRO team gained many valuable lessons on developing and refining a startup idea. The project received constructive feedback from the judging panel, particularly regarding the need for a clearer market development strategy and improved after-sales services to enhance customer satisfaction,” shared Tran Minh Phuong, Team Leader of the KAIRO project. “After the competition, our team is committed to continuing research, improving the production formula, and optimizing processes to enhance product performance. We will focus on developing effective marketing and sales strategies while ensuring comprehensive customer services—from consultation to maintenance—to deliver long-term value to users. KAIRO is determined to continuously strive to position our air-filtering bricks made from rice husks and biochar as a sustainable solution for green buildings, contributing to environmental protection and improved quality of life.”
KAIRO – Air-Filtering Bricks from Rice Husks and Biochar
KAIRO is an innovative solution aimed at improving air quality in buildings, particularly in polluted urban areas. The project utilizes rice husks—an agricultural by-product—to produce biochar, which is then used to manufacture air-filtering bricks. These bricks feature a porous structure capable of adsorbing fine dust particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), thereby enhancing indoor living and working environments.
Beyond air purification, KAIRO bricks contribute to energy efficiency through their thermal insulation properties and help reduce environmental pollution caused by the open burning of rice husks. The project targets markets such as households, offices, schools, hospitals, and green construction projects. With its eco-friendly characteristics and broad applicability, KAIRO is expected to become a sustainable solution that promotes public health and environmental protection.
Lan Anh
