Cybele Dryers focuses on providing small-scale farmers in Latin America with a technologically advanced drying system that meets international quality standards. By automating the drying process, these farmers can increase their bargaining power in the international commodity market, eliminating their reliance on intermediaries that set prices.

 

When asked about the inspiration behind Cybele Dryers, Jennifer Ortiz shared, “I have had the opportunity to meet several coffee and cocoa farmers in both Ecuador and Colombia, and they all shared a common challenge, losing potential profits from not being able to dry their production on their own”  This common challenge inspired her to develop a solution that would empower these farmers and enable them to take control of their own drying process.

The Battle of Green Talent proved instrumental in supporting Cybele Dryers throughout their journey. Jennifer Ortiz highlighted the competition’s role, stating, “The BOGT was a great platform to receive feedback about our project. Being able to receive comments and suggestions from third parties was very helpful because it eliminated bias and allowed us to evaluate our project more deeply and understand the areas where we can improve.”

 

Next to the training in innovation and entrepreneurship during her EIT InnoEnergy master’s, Jennifer also received support from KTH Royal Institute Technology incubation program. Jennifer reflects on this, saying, “KTH incubation was extremely helpful with learning the practicalities of starting a business. We were able to receive targeted information about how to find and pitch to investors, how to file patents, and all of the facilities necessary to start building a prototype.”

In recognition of their outstanding achievement, Cybele Dryers not only secured the €10,000 cash prize but also gained access to EIT InnoEnergy’s student incubation services. Their success resonated with the competition’s audience as well, as they received the fan-favorite award, symbolizing their energy and creativity throughout the Battle of Green Talent.

 

Cybele Dryers’ victory exemplifies the transformative potential of innovative solutions that address environmental challenges while empowering local communities. With their sustainable drying technology, Cybele Dryers is poised to revolutionize the livelihoods of Latin American farmers and pave the way for a more sustainable future in the agricultural industry.

 

The final of the Battle of Green Talent took place during Master School Connect 2023, an event that brings together all EIT InnoEnergy students, alumni, and industry professionals. This unique event offers 1-1 meetings with companies from EIT InnoEnergy’s portfolio, catering to students seeking for a career at a corporate or a start-up as well as those looking to start their own companies, like the participants of the Battle of Green Talent.