We are excited to announce the University of Windsor EPICentre’s 2023 RBC EPIC Founders Cohort! This intensive 12-week accelerator program is designed for early-stage founders eager to learn how to build a viable startup business model. The program offers a comprehensive package valued at over $7,000 and is 100% free of cost to all participants.
Participants in the Founders Program receive up to $6,000 as a participation award, granting them the financial support needed to focus on their startup venture. Additionally, they will gain access to a network of dynamic mentors and coaches who will provide guidance and support throughout the program. Tailored workshops, training seminars, and special events will further enhance their entrepreneurial skills and knowledge.
Throughout the 12-week program, participants will participate in an immersive experience that brings their innovative ideas to life. They will learn to test their assumptions and ideas by engaging with potential customers and gaining valuable insights and feedback. Guest speakers, subject matter experts, and mentors will provide guidance as participants work to validate their value propositions and refine their business models.
The program will cover essential topics such as problem-solution fit, customer discovery, intellectual property fundamentals, lean startup methodology, iterative prototyping strategies, pitching, and public speaking. In addition, participants will develop critical skills, competencies, and know-how to effectively navigate the startup landscape.
Now, let’s meet the impressive individuals and their innovative startup ideas in our 2023 RBC EPIC Founders Cohort:
- Nourin Ahmed Eka – AC12 A web platform connecting international students with local students for rental property checks and guidance, simplifying the process of finding housing and avoiding scams in Canada.
- Harshil Thaker – ThoughtCheck An AI-powered mental health platform that utilizes speech and behavior analysis to identify issues like depression and anxiety, providing personalized recommendations.
- Yasir Saeed – Cross Border Assistant App The Cross Border Assistant app simplifies cross-border shopping with features such as USD/CAD price comparisons, customs compliance checks, and tax/duty calculations.
- Daniel Pham – NatLang A guided e-Learning platform that helps language learners and test takers acquire language writing skills naturally and fundamentally, combating writer’s block.
- Pranay Prajapati – Pathfynder is a ride-sharing platform connecting students with drivers, enabling them to split travel costs when commuting to and from work or across cities.
- Harshil Thaker – HealthCare Diagnosis Healthcare Diagnosis utilizes machine learning for faster and more accurate diagnoses, improving patient outcomes.
- Moshood Saka – 1000K Spotme is a platform that enables merchants (travel sites) to accept split payments between two or more people in real-time or pre-authorized, allowing users to pay for vacation packages in installments.
- Wei Sheng Ler, Nhu Vo, Chi Duy, Jerica Kuah – Beloga Beloga is a blogging platform that empowers content creators to publish without the fear of censorship and allows readers to sift through fake news and consume opinions and content that are factually accurate.
- Ariz Bhimani – BRFZY aims to provide post-operative underwear for cancer patients and inguinal & transition-related surgeries. The company is focused on underwear for unilateral & bilateral orchiectomies.
- Richard Nonso – Hoodhacks is an enterprise focused on providing educational resources and mentorship opportunities in the tech industry to underrepresented youth in the Windsor-Essex community.
- Ricardo Calleja – “Friendship as a Service” matches users with compatible friends in their area. It promotes face-to-face meetings and includes ID verification and safety. Revenue comes from a subscription model.
Follow us on social media to keep up with our 2023 RBC Founders cohort throughout the summer!