Fourteen Atlantic Canadian early-stage startups will vie for a total of as much as $125,000 at the spring edition of the Volta Cohort pitching event on May 22 in Halifax.
Volta, the Halifax-based startup hub, began the Volta Cohort in 2017 to provide some early development capital for Atlantic Canadian startups. Up to five companies at each pitching session receive $25,000 each in investment, mentorship, and resources.
So far, the Volta Cohort has awarded a total of $400,000 in investment in three events. The judges at the last event actually awarded funding to six companies due to the difficulties in deciding between a few of the entrants.
“Creating a more innovative future in Atlantic Canada starts by funding and supporting high calibre founders that will turn their ideas into global companies,” said Volta CEO Jesse Rodgers in a statement. “Through Volta Cohort, we are able to engage with these founders at a critical time in their development and provide the opportunities and resources they need to get to the next stage faster.”
The finalists are:
- Arolytics is developing web applications to help manufacturers cost-effectively produce less greenhouse gases and pollutants.
- Atomo is a continuous discovery platform for product teams.
- BlackWatch.Tech is a safety equipment company developing such products as a man-overboard device for fishermen.
- CareCrew is designing the future of residential care.
- E/venTx offers management and sales tools for event organizers to promote events and manage their business.
- FloLab is a culture and mental training platform for sports teams.
- Gibli Innovations is developing a sensor providing cyclists and triathletes with real-time aerodynamic feedback while training or racing to optimize their riding position.
- Jara Developments provides a tenant security portal for landlords.
- Manage Your Home is a concierge service company that helps homeowners manage the maintenance, and improvement of their homes.
- ReelData develops remote monitoring technology for the aquaculture industry, allowing fish farms to know the biomass, appetite and welfare of finned fish in real time, without manual intervention.
- ShopLaw has created an online tool that provides an easy way to find the right legal solution for consumers.
- Sparrow Acoustics' AI-based system enables cardiologists to better visualize and interpret heart sounds.
- Tracker Inventory System makes modular, easy-to-use RFID inventory solutions for industries with a history of low technology adoption. Its first product is designed for the laundry industry.
- VRCOM is developing a fast way for businesses to create an engaging virtual reality shopping experience.
Volta Cohort selects pitchers through an application process. The funding is provided by Volta, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, BDC Capital, and Innovacorp.
Companies receiving investment are given space at Volta and access to a board of mentors comprising CEOs and founders of Volta’s resident and alumni companies. For companies outside of Halifax, support is arranged with partner organizations in other cities.
