Monerus Wins ScaleUP Cohort 8 $20,000 Top Prize
Five high-growth companies from diverse regional sectors took the stage last night to pitch their businesses to a panel of seasoned investors, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, competing for a grand prize of $20,000 at WEtech Alliance’s ScaleUP Showcase & Pitch Competition.
The companies are part of the eighth cohort to graduate from WEtech Alliance’s award-winning ScaleUP Accelerator, powered by Libro Credit Union, in partnership with Invest WindsorEssex, the City of Windsor, Communitech, FedDev Ontario, and the Government of Ontario. The accelerator program offers growth coaching, strategic insights, entrepreneurial education, connections, and financial support to help entrepreneurs in Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent scale their businesses.
“Last night’s ScaleUP Cohort 8 Pitch Finale was more than just a showcase of innovation—it was a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of a community rallying behind entrepreneurs. Six months of hard work, growth, and preparation led to this moment, where Cohort 8 startups took the stage and delivered,” says WEtech Alliance President & CEO Yvonne Pilon.
“Seeing our partners, investors, mentors, and supporters all in one room underscored the strength of our ecosystem and our shared commitment to fueling entrepreneurial success. Now, more than ever, we need to keep building ‘Team Canada’—ensuring entrepreneurs have the resources, mentorship, and investment to thrive. The work doesn’t stop here, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.”
“The ScaleUP Accelerator is a solid example of what collaboration and innovation can achieve in Windsor. The program has become a cornerstone for fostering the entrepreneurial spirit and driving the success of our regional tech and innovation community,” says Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens.
“The creativity, ingenuity, and determination on display from these outstanding companies highlights the immense talent that we have in our region. As we continue Building Windsor’s Future, events and initiatives like this not only inspire but also reaffirm the city’s position as a hub for innovation and economic growth.”
The event was the largest celebration of the program to date, with the scaleups pitching in front of over 100 guests in the stunning Rodzik Gallery at Art Windsor-Essex, overlooking the Detroit River.
Scelta named $2,500 People’s Choice Award winner
Attendees also had the opportunity to have their say with the addition of a $2,500 People’s Choice Award.
After a 5-minute Dragon’s Den-style pitch that measured the cohort companies’ growth over the course of the program, Monerus took home the evening’s top prize as determined by the panel of judges, and Scelta was named the People’s Choice Award winner.
“It’s so important and special to us to win this award,” says Monerus cofounder Khalid Saad. “Not only is the journey so important – learning through the coaches, connecting with other founders – but this money is instrumental to developing our software that complements our hardware and we’re so excited to use it to grow.”
“Even if we didn’t win this prize, the value we got from the coaches and learning from other founders has been invaluable, so it’s really been a win-win for us,” he adds.
This year marked a new chapter for the program, fueled by a renewed four-year partnership with Libro Credit Union and new collaborations with Communitech through FedDev Ontario. With enhanced mentorship and tailored programming, the program is designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s market. Valued at up to $85,000 per participant, these in-kind resources are built to supercharge growth and drive success.
“Libro Credit Union is proud of our continued partnership with WEtech on the ScaleUP program. It has been an honour to witness the incredible talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit displayed by all the participants in Cohort 8,” says Lori Atkinson, Regional Manager (Windsor-Essex) at Libro Credit Union.
“The economic impact of the WEtech ScaleUP program has been significant. Since its inception, the program has created 191 jobs and assisted 34 companies in bringing 162 new products and services to market, engaging over 10 million users around the globe. Last year alone, the program engaged 178 unique clients, provided over 2,038 hours of business advisory support, and helped raise over $31 million in funding for its client portfolio. These achievements highlight the program’s vital role in fostering economic growth and innovation in our region,” she adds.
Beyond the pitch competition, attendees connected with WEtech’s growth coaches, regional entrepreneurs, and talent while exploring a showcase of ScaleUP participants. Alumni successes were featured in a special program, including last year’s winner, Picsume, which recently secured a $1M seed round, reflecting its continued growth and momentum in the innovation ecosystem.
To learn more about the ScaleUP Accelerator visit www.wetech-alliance.com/scaleup.
The Graduating Class of ScaleUP Cohort 8
BeAware Deaf Assistant: BeAware builds AI-powered tools for the deaf and hard of hearing, and the institutions that serve them. Their flagship product, Conference Captioning, offers real-time transcription and translation services, making it possible for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or non-native language speakers to fully participate and engage in any live in-person events. Conference Captioning’s success comes from its commitment to continually improving services, driven by user feedback and evolving accessibility needs. Their goal is to create a world where live events are truly inclusive, empowering all individuals to participate fully and meaningfully.
iDream Interactive: iDream Interactive, Windsor’s leading video game development studio, with over 15 years of experience serving major enterprises, is passionate about creating games and apps enjoyed by millions worldwide. Since its inception, iDream has navigated the challenges of a constantly evolving video game industry, continually adapting and enhancing their skills. This October, they will release their first PC game, a fantasy-themed slot machine roguelike, with plans to expand it to mobile and console platforms. Through collaborations with larger game organizations, they have broadened their horizons and are confident that their new game will be groundbreaking, creating a unique experience for users.
Monerus: Monerus, established in 2015, specializes in cutting-edge public safety and law enforcement technology. Our innovative product lineup includes the tech-enhanced Monerus Bikes and the advanced Iris Lightbar, as well as a variety of AI-driven hardware and software solutions. Partnering with leading innovators like Whelen Engineering and Volcanic Bikes, we deliver state-of-the-art solutions designed to enhance safety and efficiency in challenging environments. Our commitment to innovation and excellence has positioned us as a trusted provider of comprehensive public safety solutions across North America.
MyHome Digital Dwelling & Hi-tech Inc.: MyHome Digital Dwelling & Hi-tech Inc. proudly presents the MyHome365 App, a comprehensive platform that seamlessly connects users with licensed local contractors for an array of home maintenance tasks. Whether you are a landlord, tenant, or homeowner, MyHome365 offers a streamlined and efficient way to access top-notch local services for maintenance, repair, renovation, and rentals. The app also provides a unique feature for both landlords and tenants to post rental advertisements at no cost. Users can effortlessly upload property details, photos, and contact information, reaching a wide audience and establishing direct connections with potential renters. With MyHome365, managing and maintaining your property has never been easier or more accessible.
Scelta Customs Inc.: Powered by Scelta helps General Contractors automate the stuff they don’t want to do so they can do more of the stuff that really matters through Real-Time data tools. Their mission “Streamlining Processes, Not Replacing Hands” reflects their commitment to empower the workers building our future, not replace them. By relieving the burden of administrative, planning, and client interaction aspects, they enable builders, contractors, and realtors to concentrate on the impactful, hands-on work that defines their craft. With Scelta 360, Scelta Real-Time, and Scelta Portal, they’re empowering the world’s first generation of Digital General Contractors, ensuring that every project component is efficient, simple, and connected by real-time data. Because let’s face it—construction processes could be better.
Questions about ScaleUP?
Contact Susy Kustra, our Manager of Programs and Client Experience.
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