On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the annual PAC Track Pitch Contest lit up the JKU LIT Open Innovation Center with energy, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive. Organized as part of the “IK Business Planning” course by Marcella Krawinkler, the event brought together students and industry partners to showcase their innovative business ideas.
Six diverse teams took the stage with polished pitches and promising concepts. Gemma Travel proposed a travel platform connecting older and younger generations through intergenerational tourism. IDGrow introduced a skill-building app focused on five growth dimensions of the Inner-Development Goals (https://innerdevelopmentgoals.org/) that specifically targets student unions as multipliers to offer workshops and resources. UpForm impressed with a sustainable, ergonomic chair crafted from recycled pallets and textiles. Linx presented a smart app designed to help students navigate life in Linz, offering links to official resources, local events, and student-relevant services. Connext envisioned a subscription-based event platform that fosters real-life human connection. Lastly, Berry Delicious addressed food waste and childhood nutrition with a food truck serving affordable meals made from “imperfect” produce.
Before the jury announced the Pitch Contest winner, the audience had the opportunity to listen to an inspiring founder talk by Alex Zöttl — a former PAC student and now a successful entrepreneur, founder of Theaterplatz (https://theaterplatz.at/). His core message, “Be fast, move on, and continuously improve,” strongly resonated with the crowd, as it highlighted the wide range of opportunities that can arise from pursuing the entrepreneurial path.
Following the talk, the panel of jurors — comprised of innovation and startup experts Karin Gabriel (TGW Logistics), Robert Breitenecker (MGB Program Director), Clemens Zillner (tech2b), and Alex Zöttl — announced that Linx became this year’s contest winner. The team’s idea stood out for its high feasibility, relevance to student life, and visually coherent presentation. To celebrate their success, the winning team joined the jury and extended Global Business team for a celebratory lunch at JKU’s Teichwerk. Congratulations to all participants for their bold ideas and inspiring energy!
Written by student assistant Chiara Paprotny