Combining Sustainability and Premium Aesthetics, Navira Secures Runner-Up in the 2026 GBF Student Founder Challenge
By Atika Widya Nurfaizah - Biomanajemen, 2025
Editor Muhammad Efriza Pandia
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id - A business innovation rooted in environmental sustainability and premium functionality has once again emerged from the creativity of Institut Teknologi Bandung students. Navira, a lifestyle brand specializing in daily hydration ware, secured the Runner-Up title in the Student Founder Challenge at the Ganesha Business Fest (GBF) on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Born out of the Integrated Business Experience (IBE) course at SBM ITB, Navira was pioneered by a team of 15 Management students from the class of 2024 cohort. Over two semesters, they were challenged to apply business theories directly to the real world, spanning from initial ideation to market execution. Following three months of intensive research and trials, Navira officially launched its first product in December 2025, titled the Navira Grab and Go Bottle.
Navira's Chief Operating Officer (COO), Natanael, explained that the venture was inspired by the high consumption of single-use bottled water (AMDK) in Indonesia, which drives plastic waste accumulation. "Navira was created to offer tumblers that not only promote environmental preservation but also deliver high functional and aesthetic value, moving beyond conventional market products that generally serve merely as water containers," Natanael stated.

Navira utilizes food-grade 304 stainless steel with reliable temperature insulation. Its clean and timeless design is the result of a strategic collaboration with students from the Faculty of Visual Arts and Design (FSRD) ITB. The brand's primary competitive advantage lies in its Real Leather Utility Sleeve. This premium component is handcrafted by local artisans in Garut using genuine cowhide leather. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the sleeve is ergonomically engineered to serve as a storage compartment for small everyday essentials, such as cards, cash, keys, and glasses. This combination of international quality and local craftsmanship forms the cornerstone of Navira’s excellence.
This success paved the way for Navira's participation in the GBF 2026 Company Exhibition at Summarecon Mall Bandung on Saturday, May 30, 2026. On the same day, Navira collaborated with Hotel Hemangini during the Morning Miles Plogging Fun Run 2026 event by supplying items for the participants' race packs.
Navira distinguished itself by adopting a unique booth concept titled "Treasure in BMW E39," showcasing products directly from the trunk of a classic car. At the main GBF venue, Navira also set up an interactive area featuring live product demonstrations, skill games, and various engaging entertainment activities for visitors.
Through direct engagement with consumers, the team gained vital insights regarding the significance of brand narrative. "Visitor engagement increased remarkably due to storytelling about our research and the empowerment of local artisans, demonstrating that modern consumers no longer purchase products merely for their utility, but rather for the value and identity the brand embodies," Natanael added.

Moving forward, Navira aims to expand its market share by participating in regional exhibitions and optimizing its digital platforms. In closing, Isyraa Nabila, Vice President of Navira, offered motivation for fellow students aspiring to start a business. “Never hesitate to take the first step, because an idea without execution is merely an imagination; therefore, leverage business competitions to build your portfolio because fortune favors the bold,” she concluded.
Reporter: Atika Widya Nurfaizah (Bio Management, 2025).
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