On September 9th and 10th, 2024, the National Open Innovation Camp (NOIC) transformed Energypolis in Sion into a buzzing hub of creativity, sustainability, and action. Supported by HES-SO Valais-Wallis, this fourth edition brought together over 100 participants, all united by a shared passion for innovation and the energy transition.
Highlights from the Camp
The NOIC 2024 program was packed with unforgettable moments, inspiring discussions, and hands-on activities:
15 Innovation Team Pitches
A dynamic session featuring 15 teams competing for funding prizes. Each pitch brought fresh ideas to the table, showcasing innovative approaches to tackling decarbonization and sustainability challenges.Workshops for Change
Participants explored transformative topics through engaging workshops. From mastering AI-driven innovation with Jehan Laliberté to fostering urban co-creation with Anastasia Ponomareva, the sessions offered practical tools and sparked new ideas.Round Table: Bridging the Gender Gap in Innovation
A standout moment of the camp was the insightful round table discussion featuring experts like Claire Guiraud, Giorgia Scetta, and Selin Yilmaz. They explored the challenges and opportunities of addressing gender disparities in the innovation space, igniting meaningful conversations and action plans.Keynotes and Panels
Thought leaders inspired the audience with forward-thinking insights. Vanessa Rueber from Patagonia shared their journey to circularity, while a panel on boosting innovation through creative organizations left participants with actionable takeaways.Networking and Community Building
The camp provided a variety of opportunities to connect, from lunches and aperos to a networking dinner in the mountains. Attendees left with not just ideas but also collaborators to bring those ideas to life.Sustainability in Action
Site visits to trailblazing initiatives like Travelise, L’Archipel, and the SWEET Lantern project gave participants a firsthand look at real-world solutions in sustainable tourism, circular economy, and energy decarbonization.
As this year’s camp wraps up, the impact of its ideas and connections is just beginning to unfold. NOIC continues to be a catalyst for change, empowering individuals and teams to turn bold ideas into action. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this incredible community of innovators.