Creativity, passion, entrepreneurship, risk – and $25,000 – were on the line last night.A full house packed the Westport Library’s Trefz forum, for StartUp Westport’s first-ever Pitch Competition.
Two healthcare companies, a tax platform for college athletes, a healthy and environmentally conscious mushroom-based snack, and a new marketplace for wheels were the 5 ideas pitched by eager teams of young hopefuls, in a “Shark Tank”-like scenario.
The 4 judges – all experienced entrepreneurs – headed off stage, to purposeful.
The audience used a QR code, for their own (non-binding) vote. The wheels marketplace – WheelPrice – edged out a device that personalizes and simplifies breast cancer detection, 34% to 31%.
The judges stepped back on stage. They agreed: WheelPrice won the $20,000 non-dilutive first prize.
But all the entrepreneurs were winners. The other 4 split the remaining $5,000.
ChromaShield: Protecting Skin wiht Smart UV Detection
Table of Contents
The Problem: Skin cancer is a growing epidemic, and traditional sunscreens often fail to provide adequate protection due to improper application, infrequent reapplication, and a lack of personalized UV exposure awareness. Many people are unaware of their individual UV risk based on skin type, location, and time of day.
Our Solution: ChromaShield is a wearable UV sensor that provides real-time feedback on UV exposure, personalized protection recommendations, and intelligent sunscreen application reminders.
How it Works:
* Wearable Sensor: A small, discreet sensor (available as a patch, bracelet, or clip) continuously monitors UV radiation levels.
* Personalized Risk Assessment: users input their skin type, location, and planned outdoor activities into the ChromaShield app. Our algorithm calculates a personalized UV risk profile.
* Real-Time Feedback: The sensor transmits UV data to the app, providing instant feedback on exposure levels.The app uses a color-coded system (green, yellow, red) to indicate risk.
* Intelligent Reminders: ChromaShield sends timely reminders to reapply sunscreen, seek shade, or adjust protective clothing based on individual UV exposure and risk profile.
* Data Tracking & Insights: The app tracks UV exposure over time, providing users with valuable insights into their sun habits and potential risks.
target Market: Outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, families with young children, individuals with sensitive skin, and anyone concerned about sun protection.
Business Model:
* Hardware Sales: Revenue from the sale of ChromaShield sensors.
* Subscription Service: Premium app features (advanced analytics, personalized recommendations, integration with weather data) offered through a monthly or annual subscription.
* Partnerships: Collaborations with sunscreen brands, dermatologists, and outdoor retailers.
Competitive Advantage:
* Real-Time, Personalized Data: Unlike static SPF ratings, ChromaShield provides dynamic, individualized UV protection guidance.
* Proactive Protection: Reminders and alerts encourage consistent sunscreen application and sun-safe behavior.
* Data-Driven Insights: Empowers users to understand their UV exposure and make informed decisions.
* Discreet & convenient: Wearable design integrates seamlessly into daily life.
Team: We are a team of engineers, dermatologists, and data scientists passionate about preventing skin cancer and promoting healthy sun habits.
Ask: We are seeking $500,000 in seed funding to finalize product development, scale manufacturing, and launch our marketing campaign. Join us in building a future where everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely.
Startup Westport’s Pitch Competition: Celebrating Wheels of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Nexa Tax
Mirabelle – “breast health, in your hands” – is a device by which women can detect and monitor themselves for breast cancer. it’s also a tool for healthcare providers in underserved areas. The founders, with Cornell University roots, added humor to the serious nature of their company (they call beta testers “the titty committee”).
!StartUp pitch – mirabelle (1)
WheelPrice
[image of wheelprice product]
WheelPrice
NeuroPuffs were created by Yale University graduate students. The product – mushrooms and upcycled food waste, dried using a special process, coated in real powdered cheese, and packed in compostable bags – provides “guilt-free snacking.” they’re “good for the brain, kind to the planet.”
neuropuffs
The decision was tough, the judges said. All the ideas were “notable, inspiring, and solving real problems.”
But WheelPrice had the best business model. It seemed the most scalable. Its pitch was most impressive.
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