The University of Cincinnati's 1819 Innovation Hub buzzed with energy this weekend as [SK1] over 120 students from various Ohio colleges gathered to bring their startup ideas to life. Hosted by the UC Center for Entrepreneurship, the third annual UC Startup Weekend saw participants transform their business concepts into viable ventures in just three days as reported by Local12.
Team winners stand proudly as the weekend concluded. Photo: Mary Dwyer
Judges praised the students for their ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit, ultimately awarding top honors to four standout teams:
- Allergy-friendly late-night noodle delivery
- Team members: Paige Hedger, Sammi Jones and Varsha Lingam
Born from a long night of studying and a dream for a bowl of noodles after 9 p.m., Send Noods seeks to revolutionize late-night dining with an allergy-friendly, customizable noodle bowl delivery service. Operating from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m., the startup caters to those with dietary restrictions while injecting humor into the experience with creatively named dishes.
- Sensor for detecting viral load in the air
- Team members: Matthew Stocker, Mohammad Hasan Jamei and Robert Horvath
Virasense introduces a surface-mounted device capable of real-time air monitoring for infectious agents in hospitals, airports and public spaces. The sensor provides instant outbreak alerts using a red-yellow-green light system, offering hospitals and other institutions a crucial tool for 24/7 surveillance without the need for patient interaction - significantly reducing regulatory hurdles.
- AI architecture tool
- Team members: Ezra Wolf, Vishesh Anand, Alba Samsami, Khaled Oweis and Sahil Thakare
Kea Tech's artificial intelligence accelerator addresses the challenge of increasing computer power in existing AI systems. By leveraging licensed technology, the team aims to deliver flexible and scalable AI and machine learning solutions for real-time decision-making in certain AI and Internet of Things devices, reducing dependency on cloud computing.
- 3D-printed triathlon chamois cloth
- Team members: Andrew Lewis, Nikhil Shah and Donovan Rinderle
Tri-Dry Print offers an innovative solution to the common discomforts faced by triathletes, cyclists and runners. Using an advanced adhesion technique, the 3D-printed chamois solves problems like moisture retention, chafing and discomfort associated with traditional thin foam inserts.
- AI-powered navigation for the visually impaired
- Team members: Reaan Fathima, Trey Reichert and Joey Davisson
Inspired by a personal story, founder Trey Reichert's motivation stems from his father's battle with vision loss due to drusen, a retinal disorder. Sonic Eyesight is dedicated to empowering blind individuals through AI-powered wearable technology. The product, featuring a 360-degree camera system with ultrasonic sensors, assists users with real-time navigation, enhancing independence and mobility.
UC Startup Weekend has solidified itself as a breeding ground for future entrepreneurs, providing students with a platform to turn bold ideas into reality. As the event wrapped up, participants acquired invaluable mentorship, networking opportunities and a newfound confidence in their entrepreneurial abilities. With another successful year in the books, the UC Center for Entrepreneurship continues to ignite an innovative spirit among students, ensuring that the next generation of startup leaders is ready to make their mark.
Cover image: UC students from Team Send Noods pitch to judges. Photo: Mary Dwyer
