MFU Students Sweep 1st and 2nd Place at Startup Thailand League 2026 Northern Regional Round

Mae Fah Luang University, through the Intellectual Property and Innovation Management Division (MFii), led student representatives to participate in the Startup Thailand League 2026 Northern Regional Competition, held at the Science and Technology Park, Chiang Mai University, on 11 May 2026. The competition brought together startup teams from universities across Northern Thailand to identify and support the next generation of innovative entrepreneurs with strong potential for commercial development and national-level advancement.
 
In this competition, Mae Fah Luang University sent five student teams to compete and achieved outstanding success by winning both the Champion and 1st Runner-up awards, securing their advancement to the national competition. This achievement reflects the remarkable innovation, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration of MFU students.

Team Jaksu Health presented “Retinal SecondSight AI,” a web-based AI platform designed as an AI Co-pilot for ophthalmologists. The platform utilises artificial intelligence to assist in retinal image analysis and screening for retinal abnormalities, enhancing diagnostic accuracy while reducing examination time. The innovation demonstrates strong potential for future implementation in healthcare systems and specialised clinics. The team received the Champion Award, along with a cash prize of 20,000 THB and a trophy. 

Jaksu Health team members include:
•    Mr. Jirawat Jakthong (School of Applied Digital Technology)
•    Mr. Natthawut Saengmani (School of Applied Digital Technology)
•    Mr. Khanatip Gankingpai (School of Applied Digital Technology)
•    Ms. Wiwanthanee Pronrod (School of Law)
•    Mr. Dechachai Khumkong (School of Management)
Advisors:
•    Asst. Prof. Dr. Khwunta Kirimasthong (School of Applied Digital Technology)
•    Dr. Samatthachai Yamsa-ard (School of Management)

Team Orion presented “oiless,” a natural oil-absorbent material developed to address oil contamination and environmental pollution. The product is made from eco-friendly natural materials and can be applied in industrial and environmental management sectors. This innovation highlights the importance of Green Innovation and sustainable development. The team received the 1st Runner-up Award, along with a cash prize of 10,000 THB and a trophy.

Orion team members include:
•    Mr. Phoramet Kaewpakdee (School of Applied Digital Technology)
•    Mr. Puttapoom Auttarot (School of Applied Digital Technology)
•    Mr. Chaimongkol Chanphumidol (School of Management)
•    Mr. Phonthakon Somwanna (School of Science)
Advisor
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Sitthi Duangphet (School of Science)

In addition, both teams received an additional development grant of 25,000 THB each to further develop their prototypes and showcase their innovations at the Demo Day event, scheduled for 25–27 June 2026 at Siam Paragon, Bangkok. The event serves as a key platform for connecting student startups with businesses, investors, and national startup networks.

From the Northern regional stage to the national stage, MFU students are not just competing — they are shaping the future of Thailand’s startup ecosystem. This achievement reflects the potential of MFU students in developing innovations that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): 

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: by developing AI technology to support retinal disease analysis and screening, thereby enhancing access to efficient and accurate healthcare services.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: by creating modern innovations and technologies that can be further developed for practical and commercial applications.
• SDG 13: Climate Action: through the development of natural oil-absorbent materials aimed at reducing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable development 

This achievement is not only a proud milestone for Mae Fah Luang University, but also a reflection of the potential of Thai youth in creating innovations that address challenges in healthcare, society, and the environment through entrepreneurial thinking and modern technology.