The Directorate of Innovation and Science and Technology Area (DIKST) at Universitas Brawijaya (UB) recently announced the success of UrTree, a startup incubated through its 2025 Business Incubation Funding Program. This initiative supports young founders by nurturing ideas and business growth. UrTree, a collaboration between students from the Faculty of Computer Science (FILKOM) and the Faculty of Agriculture (FP), secured funding in the ideation category, marking a significant milestone for the young team.

Bridging Technology and Agriculture: Cross-Disciplinary Innovation

UrTree’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach. Students Alexander Imanuel Widjanarko and Berlian Davis Dwi Mubarok from FILKOM bring expertise in information technology, while Fanisya Luthfiatma from Agroecotechnology contributes agricultural and environmental insights. This combination has resulted in a business model that is both innovative and relevant. Under the guidance of Dr. Ir. Diva Kurnianingtyas, S.Kom., the team refined their concept into a robust business proposal that attracted DIKST’s support.

Addressing Modern Challenges: Accessible Tree Ownership and CSR Solutions

The UrTree platform addresses two key needs in modern society. For individuals without land, it offers a solution to plant and own trees remotely. Users can purchase trees, monitor their growth, and enjoy the associated benefits on professionally managed partner lands. For corporations, UrTree provides a transparent and measurable tool for managing environmental corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. Companies can allocate CSR funds efficiently for reforestation efforts and receive accountable sustainability reports.

Guided Growth: Mentorship and Funding from DIKST UB

The funding and mentorship from DIKST UB mark the beginning of UrTree’s journey into product development and market readiness. The program offers structured support in product refinement, business strategy, and incubation, ensuring the startup is well-prepared to scale its impact. This support reflects UB’s commitment to fostering innovators who can tackle future challenges with sustainable solutions.

Looking Ahead: Developing a Sustainable Startup for Environmental Impact

With the incubation phase set to last two months, the UrTree team is focused on advancing their platform into a fully operational startup. Their work symbolizes the university’s drive to cultivate next-generation innovators and demonstrates a promising path for combining technology and environmental stewardship.

PHOTO: UNIVERSITAS BRAWIJAYA

This article was created with AI assistance.