Student Businesses Put Ideas to the Test at Innovation Cluster Slingshot Pitch Competition
/Jagadheesh Sathya Nayarana Rao of ParkQuik got the top prize of $3,000 from the Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) Slingshot Pitch Competition held at Venture North on Thursday afternoon.
Photo courtesy of Innovation Cluster Peterborough.
The competition was a finale of the seven-week Slingshot Student Accelerator Program from six diverse student companies.
The contest turns students’ ideas into Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) and crafting robust business models. It spans form healthcare innovations to AI-powered software solutions, the ideas have been brought to life by students from Trent University and Fleming College.
“This seven-week program was a transformative journey for me,” said Rao. “Winning the top prize in the final pitch competition not only validates my hard work but also provides essential funds to boost my business after the app launch. The program's hands-on approach to innovation and technology, along with expert mentorship, has prepared me for success.”
Camila Duarte, programs director, along with experts helped advisor the projects as advisors.
“Seeing these young entrepreneurs grow and succeed has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” said Duarte. “The Slingshot program exemplifies our commitment to fostering innovation, and we look forward to seeing these bright minds continue to thrive in the business world.”
Each of the six participating student companies has been granted a conditionally pre-approved loan of $20,000 from Community Futures Peterborough.
Judges for the final pitch included:
Waun Broderick, CTO, & Co-Founder of Gyroscopic Inc, Innovation Cluster Expert in Residence
Wael Nawara, Professor at Fleming College
Jaime Nobes, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, Leapzone Lead and Science Teacher
