The University of New Brunswick held a demo day Wednesday for its Summer Institute accelerator, its first in-person pitch event since the pandemic, with six companies presenting.
Most startup accelerators teach lean methodology to innovation-driven businesses. The Summer Institute takes a different tack by seeking to back companies with positive social and environmental impacts. Its programming teaches sales, marketing and customer validation skills.
Although based in Fredericton, the Institute also usually accepts companies from elsewhere in the province and even other countries. But this year, Dhirendra Shukla, Chair of UNB’s J. Herbert Smith Centre for Technology Management and Entrepreneurship, said organizers focused on local entrepreneurs because of the complexity and risk still associated with long distance travel. All six companies that pitched are headquartered in New Brunswick.
Shukla previously said in a December interview that demand for The Summer Institute has increased even during the pandemic.
“The amount of work and dedication the founders have put into growing their businesses is something they can be very proud of and we at the Summer Institute are proud of their commitment and openness to learn,” said Joe Allen, Managing Director of Accelerator Programs for the J Herbert Smith Centre.
Here’s a look at this year’s companies:
Fredericton
Matthew Hurst
Mālō sells a skin cream made from real vanilla, as opposed to the synthetic vanilla scent more widely used in the industry. Launching in January, Hurst has so far sold 100 units at just under $30 apiece.
Fredericton
Carrie Lenentine
Sinner’s Suds sells natural, handmade soap, as well as shampoo and conditioner bars. The company offers both consumer and white label versions of its products, the latter for charities looking to raise money or businesses in need of branded “merch.”
Fredericton
Jennifer Handrahan
Tailored Tots makes children’s toys, particularly for teething babies, that are made from non-toxic natural materials and designed to be maximally stimulating to developing minds. The company positions itself as offering an alternative to plastic or electronic toys.
Saint John
Samantha Stevie Piekarski and Sam Jones
Spring Hill sells a range of consumer mushroom products, including dried mushrooms made from aesthetically sub-par fruit to reduce food waste. The mushrooms are grown at a farm owned by Piekarski and Jones.
Fredericton
Luis Francisco Ponce
REFLL plans to sell household products in reusable bottles, which customers will be able to refill at dispensing stations, reducing plastic waste.
Fredericton
Sebastián Salazar
Salazar, a city planner by trade, works with municipalities and other public service providers to help them communicate information about topics like bus schedules and immigration processes in ways — such as explainer videos — that are more accessible for immigrants and other vulnerable groups.
