The Drexel Startups Fund Spring Competition has once again highlighted our students’ innovative spirit and entrepreneurial prowess. This bi-annual pitch competition, generously supported by Drexel alumni and Yope, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting student entrepreneurs nationwide, aims to foster student startup ideas through non-dilutive grants, mentoring, investor introductions, and incubation services. Organized by the Charles D. Close School of Entrepreneurship and supported by the Baiada Institute for Entrepreneurship, the competition underscores Drexel’s commitment to experiential learning.
The Competition
The Drexel Startups Fund competition features a rigorous two-round pitch format. The first round involves presentations from a select group of applicants, and the finalists are then chosen to present in the final round. This year, the competition received numerous innovative proposals from undergraduate seniors, graduate students, and post-graduate applicants.
The Winners
After an intense selection process, we are thrilled to announce the winners of the Spring 2024 competition. These student entrepreneurs have demonstrated exceptional innovation, business acumen, and potential for growth.
ClassCut
Award: $10,000
ClassCut is a software company developing Learnyfi, which uses AI to enhance students’ learning experience, professors’ teaching experience, and admin’s administrative experience. Their platform integrates into Drexel’s learning management system. The software provides students with a personal TA, capable of personalizing their educational experience for them.
Meddibia
Award: $20,000
Meddibia is a software company focused on bettering the healthcare system, specifically for developing countries and rural areas. After talking to healthcare professionals, the team realized the need for better software for medical records, especially in areas with different levels of connectivity and technology.
REVESH
Award: $35,000
REVESH is a software company bridging language barriers around immigration. Their team focuses on supporting people who are in the process of immigrating to the United States, helping with paperwork, communication, and taking fear out of the equation when it comes to immigration.
The Impact of Experiential Learning
The Drexel Startups Fund competition is a testament to the power of experiential learning. By providing students with real-world opportunities to develop and pitch their business ideas, Drexel University fosters a dynamic learning environment where theoretical knowledge meets practical application. The mentorship, incubator space, and networking opportunities provided by the competition play a crucial role in transforming innovative ideas into viable businesses.
Looking Forward
As we celebrate the achievements of this year’s winners, we are reminded of the importance of supporting and nurturing the entrepreneurial aspirations of our students. The Drexel Startups Fund will continue to be a cornerstone of our commitment to innovation and experiential learning. We look forward to the continued success of Class Cut, Meddibia, and REVESH, and we are excited to see the impact these startups will have on their respective industries!
Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you to everyone who participated in the competition. Your hard work and dedication are what make the Drexel entrepreneurial community so vibrant and inspiring.
