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CMU’s builds Program Turns Over 340 Student Business Ideas into Reality, Generating Over THB 33.6 Million in Revenue and Investment

2 November 2026
Corporate Communication and Alumni Relations Center (CCARC)
Chiang Mai University continues to advance its vision of becoming an Entrepreneurial University through builds – CMU Startup & Entrepreneurial Program, which empowers students from all disciplines to develop businesses while pursuing their studies. Over the past three years, the program has engaged more than 6,000 students, nurtured over 340 business ideas, and supported the establishment of 25 student-led businesses, generating combined revenue and investment of more than THB 33.6 million.

Launched on August 16, 2023, builds CMU supports students throughout the entrepreneurial journey, from exploring and testing business ideas to developing prototypes or minimum viable products (MVPs), conducting market trials, and establishing businesses. The program also integrates entrepreneurship into the curriculum through three elective courses, combining online learning and hands-on workshops under the concept of “Learn and Build a Business at the Same Time.”

Beyond the classroom, students receive support through skills-development activities, interdisciplinary team matching, mentorship from entrepreneurs and experts, prototype development, market testing, business networking, and access to potential funding opportunities.

One successful example is MECH CODE ROBOTECH Co., Ltd., founded by a group of CMU engineering students with a shared interest in programming, robotics, and automation. The company provides technology solutions for businesses and industries, including software development, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, automation, electronic circuits, and control systems.

MECH CODE ROBOTECH was among the student-led businesses showcased at CMU’s 2026 Press Conference, alongside MunMae and SkinNavi, demonstrating how academic knowledge and creativity can be transformed into practical business solutions.

In its fourth year, builds CMU aims to expand access to entrepreneurial learning, strengthen connections between classrooms and real markets, and collaborate with secondary schools across Northern Thailand to inspire young entrepreneurs. Through partnerships with businesses and the university’s innovation ecosystem, the program continues to foster a new generation of entrepreneurs under its guiding concept, “Everyone Can Start.”

For more information: builds CMU | MECH CODE ROBOTECH
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