The University of Waterloo’s Fall 2023 Velocity Pitch Competition witnessed a record-breaking 100 applications from students across all faculties, highlighting the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit on campus. The event featured eight finalist teams vying for over $20,000 in grants, presenting their innovative startup ideas to a panel of distinguished judges.
Among the standout pitches, Mapmate, led by PhD candidate Kwaku Owusu Twum, secured a Velocity $5K grant for their platform connecting food processors with small-scale farmers across Africa, promoting sustainable farming practices and supply chain traceability.
Blackbird, presented by PhD candidate Robert Chlumsky, won acclaim for its real-time, web-based flood mapping solution. The technology, co-founded by engineering professors James Craig and Bryan Tolson, aims to optimize emergency responses during flood events and has broader applications for public access in the future.
Plantal Support, introduced by undergraduate student Doris Wenbo Yi, earned recognition for its visually stunning greenhouse display case kit designed to simplify plant care. The product, currently catering to plant enthusiasts, is being tested for growing produce with support from Velocity Science.
Pliantech, presented by undergraduate student Jonah Leinwand, impressed with its groundbreaking design for cervical spine discs. The innovative spinal implant aims to restore mobility and reduce the likelihood of post-surgery complications, utilizing 3D printing and titanium flexors.
In addition to the $5K grants, Jonah Leinwand’s Pliantech also secured the people’s choice award, demonstrating the audience’s enthusiasm for this transformative medical device.
These entrepreneurial endeavors reflect the University of Waterloo’s commitment to fostering innovation and bringing groundbreaking solutions to the market. The Velocity Pitch Competition serves as a platform for students to showcase their problem-solving prowess and receive support for turning their ideas into reality.
For those exploring entrepreneurship, the University of Waterloo provides various opportunities, including programs, courses, and extracurricular activities through its innovation centers. Whether at the exploration, building, or scaling stage, Waterloo offers a diverse range of programs to support aspiring entrepreneurs.
