An invention designed to tackle labour shortages in farming through chemical-free, AI-driven weeding technology has won Durham University’s Blueprint Startup Challenge.
Robotnik, developed by Engineering undergraduate Ryan Welsh, took top spot in the 2026 final and secured the competition’s £10,000 first prize.
The final marked the culmination of a highly competitive process that attracted 96 applications, with more than £50,000 in funding distributed to student ventures throughout the competition.
Ryan Welsh founder of Robotnik and his team with their award for winning the Blueprint Challenge
The other 2026 finalists showcased a wide range of ideas spanning education technology, artificial intelligence, robotics and talent development:
The winners will now begin the next phase of developing and scaling their ideas.
The Blueprint Startup Challenge continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing early-stage ventures within the Durham community. The initiative is supported by alumni Richard King and Dave Gledhill, alongside Santander Universities and ESBF.
Each finalist delivered a seven-minute pitch followed by a 10-minute question-and-answer session with a panel of judges, including Durham alumnus and Venture Lab supporter Jonathan Hazan.
The judging process tested not only the scalability and innovation of each idea, but also the entrepreneurs’ ability to respond under pressure.
The Blueprint Startup Challenge Final is a key part of Durham University’s Celebration of Enterprise, bringing together students, graduates, alumni and partners to recognise entrepreneurial success.
The event highlights the continued growth of Durham’s enterprise community and recognises those whose support has helped student ventures thrive.
Winners were formally announced and celebrated for their achievements at the Celebration of Enterprise dinner.
The Blueprint Startup Challenge demonstrates Durham University’s commitment to providing tangible resources for student entrepreneurs and reinforces the University's growing reputation as a hub for innovation and enterprise.
Professor Karen O'Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden, said:
"Our graduate outcomes reflect the ambition and creativity of our students, as they turn ideas into ventures with real-world impact. Their achievements demonstrate the value of enterprise in shaping future leaders and driving meaningful innovation. I congratulate all of our Blueprint Challenge finalists and wish them every success for the future.”
Durham graduates are in high demand. The University ranks among the world’s top 50 institutions for employer reputation in the QS World University Rankings 2027, demonstrating the value employers place on a Durham degree.
Durham graduates progress to exciting and fulfilling careers around the globe, with 88% in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes Data 2026, for students graduating in 2023–24).
Durham’s global perspective, research-led education and transformative wider student experience help shape graduates who consistently stand out in the jobs market.
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