Digital security entrepreneurs win eChallenge

Founded by University of Adelaide students Savannah Fung and Oveena Widyaratne, Typpio was awarded a total of $32,700 at the prestigious competition, which celebrates pioneering student startups with the potential to disrupt markets and transform industries. The winners were announced at an Awards Ceremony on Thursday night 5 December at SkyCity.

Typpio aims to revolutionise digital security through advanced, non-intrusive authentication technology that analyses unique typing patterns, including speed, rhythm, and pressure.

As traditional passwords and authentication codes become increasingly vulnerable, Typpio leverages AI to deliver a seamless and secure alternative. This cutting-edge solution is poised to transform industries such as finance, healthcare, education, utilities, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs), offering robust security with minimal operational disruption.  

Professor Noel Lindsay, University of Adelaide’s Pro-Vice Chancellor (Entrepreneurship) and Dean of Business from the Adelaide Business School highlighted the impact of this year’s winners.

“This year’s eChallenge winners have the potential to shape the future of business, from revolutionising cybersecurity and finance to redefining consumer experiences in coffee brewing and strata management,” Professor Lindsay said.  

“The aim of the Australian eChallenge is to help students build entrepreneurial capability, develop new ways of thinking about problems and solutions, and increase their capacity to think creatively and act decisively.”  

Since 2001, the University of Adelaide’s ThincLab eChallenge pre-accelerator program has been a proving ground for aspiring entrepreneurs and is the nation’s longest-running program of its kind.

This year, the prize pool totalled $76,700. As the top winning team, Typpio was awarded $10,000, a $5000 ThincLab incubation package, two _SOUTHSTART tickets, and $1500 in consulting from Madderns.

Second Prize Winner & Genetic Labs Australia Rising Star Award

Second place went to ULab Coffee, created by University of Adelaide students Jack-Henry Mooney, Thomas Robson, and Jack Tidemann.  

ULab Coffee simplifies the home-brew coffee experience by eliminating decision fatigue. The team developed a scientifically-backed testing kit to determine each customer’s unique flavour profile. This data is used to create tailored coffee blends, ensuring a perfect brew every time while supporting Australian roasters.  

Third Prize Winner & William Buck Award

SkyPay, developed by University of Adelaide students Ayanfejesu Doherty and William Tran, secured third place. SkyPay is a groundbreaking financial platform providing flexible lending solutions to underserved markets in Australia. By removing upfront costs, it empowers individuals to access essential goods and services, fostering financial growth and inclusion.

Strata Challenge Award

Stravi, smart, a smart solution to longstanding challenges in strata management, was the inaugural winners of the new award Strata Challenge Award by ThincLab,

Created by University of Adelaide students Chi Leung Francis Chan, Evon Chan, and Amy Le Nguyen, Stravi improves accountability, transparency, and efficiency by bridging gaps between stakeholders.

Key features include predictive maintenance, financial forecasting, and an open bidding system, transforming strata management into a seamless, collaborative experience.  

Find out more about Australian eChallenge.