“Team Coff Brew” and “Team Chitonel,” two startup teams from Maejo University, have been selected to represent the Northern region following the regional round of the “Startup Thailand League 2026.” Organized by the National Innovation Agency (Public Organization), the competition provides a platform for students to transform their ideas into startups, creating added value that fosters the development of robust, high-growth innovative businesses. Participants are supported through an entrepreneurship development program, which includes a university-based mentoring system. This year, 45 teams from 9 universities across Northern Thailand participated in the competition, held on May 11, 2026, at the Regional Science Park (Northern Region) headquarters in Chiang Mai province.
The two selected teams from Maejo University are:
“Team Coff Brew,” which developed a novel coffee extraction device utilizing “PLU technology.” This innovation reduces the time required for cold brew coffee extraction from the conventional 12–24 hours to just 15 minutes, while preserving the original aroma, flavor profile, and key chemical components, all while lowering production costs.
The team members include Anupong Khueankaew and Arthit Dankrathok from the Faculty of Engineering and Agro-Industry; Tantikorn Kanna from the Faculty of Business Administration; and Nirmala Bhuvana Chandra Ramisetty from the International College. The team is mentored by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chaturapat Warit from the Faculty of Engineering and Agro-Industry. Faculty Advisor
The "ChitoNail" team developed a 3D-sculpting gel derived from chitosan—extracted from discarded shrimp shells. This innovation addresses the issue of bio-waste while reducing the use of synthetic chemicals in the beauty industry. The product utilizes a biodegradable biopolymer, formulated with a suitable gel matrix to ensure excellent shape retention, flexibility, and durability. It has also undergone dermatological testing for allergic reactions.
The team consists of Thanatsorn Siriprayong, Suppawit Baesakul, and Burit Phromsen from the Faculty of Fisheries Technology and Aquatic Resources; Ratchanon Suyaphon from the Faculty of Business Administration; and Sumethinee Thisanon from the Faculty of Nursing. The project is guided by faculty advisors: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Duangporn Amornlertpisan, Asst. Prof. Dr. Darachat Tiammuang, and Dr. Nongpanga Saengcharoen from the Faculty of Fisheries Technology and Aquatic Resources; Asst. Prof. Dr. Chokchai Yathongchai from the Faculty of Science; along with the team from the Center of Excellence in Agricultural Innovation for Entrepreneurial Graduates (Agri Inno).
Dr. Kan Kalyanamit, Director of the Maejo University Agricultural and Food Science and Technology Park (MAP), added, "The Science and Technology Park has collaborated with the National Innovation Agency (NIA)..." The organization operates the "Startup Thailand League" program, which provides mentorship and preparation for developing concepts, research, and innovations into technology- and innovation-driven ventures. The program covers essential skills such as business plan writing and project pitching. Maejo University selected five teams to participate; two of these teams were chosen to advance to the national-level Demo Day. The other three teams—"Soilora System" (a portable, multi-parameter soil nutrient monitoring and data management system), "KraiPai" (a digital platform for agricultural logistics and transport services), and "INNOVIX" (a platform—"Safe Seat"—designed to help prevent and reduce issues related to drunk driving)—also presented compelling projects. The Science Park is prepared to act as a mentor, helping these students further refine their work and explore future development opportunities.
The two teams selected for the national stage have each received a grant of 25,000 THB to further develop their projects for the Demo Day, which will take place from June 25–27, 2026, at Siam Paragon, Bangkok. This event serves as a key platform for the students to showcase their work to investors and the international startup business network.