That’s a wrap on a transformative 12-week innovation, collaboration, and growth journey as the RBC Founders Program comes to an end. This intensive accelerator program, designed to nurture and guide early-stage founders in building viable startup business models, has equipped participants with essential skills and fostered a spirit of ingenuity that will continue to create an impact through the local entrepreneurial landscape.
Over the past three months, RBC Summer Founders Program participants were immersed in a dynamic ecosystem of learning, mentorship, and opportunity, from the inception of their innovative ideas to refining their prototypes.
One of the standout features of the program was its comprehensive approach to empowerment. Participants had the privilege of receiving up to $6,000 as a participation award and gained access to a diverse group of mentors and coaches. These seasoned experts brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, providing invaluable guidance that extended far beyond the confines of a classroom.
The journey was further enriched through tailored workshops, training seminars, and special events. These sessions were carefully curated to address the multifaceted challenges faced by early-stage startups, encompassing everything from strategic planning and market analysis to effective communication and leadership development. Each interaction allowed participants to expand their skill sets, refine their strategies, and gain insights that could ultimately determine the success of their ventures.
The Final Pitch allowed participants to showcase their hard work and dedication before a panel of esteemed judges, vying for additional cash prizes that could fuel the next phase of their startup journey. The quality and creativity exhibited during these pitches were a testament to the program’s impact, with each presentation reflecting the viability of the business models and the passion and drive of the entrepreneurs behind them.
Congratulations to the winning teams:
1st place – BRFZY
2nd place – Beloga
3rd place – Pathfynder
In celebrating the accomplishments of the participants, it is impossible not to acknowledge the dedication and expertise of the judging panel. The semi-final judges, including individuals from academia, consulting, and industry, brought diverse perspectives to the table. Their insightful evaluations and feedback contributed significantly to the growth of the startups, ensuring that the entrepreneurial spirit continued to evolve and thrive.
Thank you to our semi-finalist judges:
- Afshin Rahimi, Associate Professor, Faculty of Engineering, University of Windsor
- Allison Prieur, Principal & Founder, DARE Impact Consulting
- Phillip Olla, Chief Executive Officer, Audacia Bioscience
- Bob Hedrick, President, CAMufacturing Solutions
- Khizer Hayat, Chief Innovation Officer, i-5O
- Susana Martins, Business Advisor, WEtech Alliance
The final judges, representing a mix of successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders, added a layer of prestige to the program’s culmination. Their presence underscored the value of the RBC Summer Founders Program as a platform that not only fosters innovation but also attracts the attention of those who recognize and appreciate the transformative potential of these emerging startups.
Thank you to our final pitch judging panel:
- Aaron Mavrinac, Co-founder & Vice President, Opreto
- Marc Mundy, Vice President, Commercial Financial Services, Royal Bank of Canada
- Wen Teoh, Director, University of Windsor EPICentre
A special thank you goes out to Vice President of Research and Innovation, Shanthi Johnson, for joining us for the Final Pitch awards ceremony and encouraging all the founders to keep pursuing their entrepreneurial goals! Thank you for your empowering words of wisdom!
As we reflect on the achievements of this year’s participants, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) for their unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. The RBC Summer Founders Program’s impact goes beyond the financial support—it’s about creating a culture of innovation, collaboration, and learning that will have lasting effects on the participants and the communities they serve.
Armed with newfound knowledge, connections, and a sense of purpose, these founders are ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead and continue on their entrepreneurial journey. The RBC Summer Founders Program may have ended, but its legacy lives on through the startups it has helped and the spirit of innovation it has ignited.
In the words of Steve Jobs, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” The RBC Summer Founders Program has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in cultivating leaders poised to reshape industries, challenge the status quo, and inspire a new era of entrepreneurship.
Congratulations to all the founders who participated; we’re thrilled to be part of your journey!
