UBC’s HATCH Venture Builder Announces 14 New Startups

Early-stage venture creation is critical to the success of our ecosystem: when new startups are able to thrive, the whole community flourishes.

The deep tech and research-based ventures we see today through entrepreneurship@UBC and the HATCH Venture Builder are indicative of this, and of the emerging industries – and leaders – that will shape our future.

As part of the University of British Columbia, these programs work with early-stage entrepreneurs at the precipice of game-changing discoveries across sectors including AI, robotics and machine learning, to wearable devices, biotech and manufacturing.  

Much of this work is being nurtured through R&D, existing in the shallow space between idea and investible venture, where they help ventures prepare for launch and growth leveraging the expertise of their team and partnerships with faculties like Applied Science, Sauder School of Business, the School of Biomedical Engineering amongst others, to move ventures into the world.

Last week the HATCH Venture Builder program announce the 14 new teams joining their Winter 2022 cohort.

• AutoMetrics – AutoMetrics leverages machine learning to automate welding operations and inspection.
• DYNE – Dyne helps grow restaurant revenue by helping people meet up with their friends instantaneously over food while saving money simultaneously.
• Flutter Care -Flutter Care creates new technologies to predict and prevent pregnancy complications.
• GeoGen – GeoGen is transforming liabilities into clean energy.
• Hi Neighbor – Hi Neighbor connects neighbors with an app that allows them to run errands for each other and create community and connections.
• Immersio – Immersio is bringing back ancient wisdom through conversational language learning.
• ImmiSearch – ImmiSearch is a one-stop shop for immigrants, connecting them with licensed immigration consultants.
• Nyoka – Nyoka Design Labs is on track to prevent millions of tonnes of toxic waste from entering our environment with their enzyme-based bioluminescent lighting systems; no plastic and no toxic chemicals – only bright, sustainable glow.
• Nano Tech Innovation – Nano Tech Innovation offers a unique liquid, easily sprayed/brushed on the surface of a rusted metal, which converts into a protective coating halting the existing rust and preventing future corrosion.
• Proton Intelligence – Proton Intelligence is providing continuous, real-time, and accurate biomarker monitoring to better manage chronic disease and save lives.
• Rohe Homes – Rohe Homes delivers configurable prefabricated homes through a streamlined process that helps communities expedite residential construction.
• Sarcomere Dynamics – Sarcomere Dynamics has developed the most advanced robotic hand in the world that mimics the human hand in all aspects: size, weight, dexterity, and strength.
• Takachar – Takachar turns crop and forest residues into higher-value bioproducts in rural, underserved communities.
• TrafficDriven Technologies – TrafficDriven has created a transparent marketplace where consumers get the best value for their car and shop with confidence.

HATCH Venture Builder is for teams who have completed Venture Founder and are demonstrating market traction: gaining momentum, creating pilots, and preparing for financing.

Startups work hands-on with an expert bench of Entrepreneurs in Residence (EiRs), with access to over 10,000 square feet of office, makerspace and wet lab space provided by ICICS and their partners at the School of Biomedical Engineering.

This new cohort will be accelerating their growth the next 12-18 months, working on major milestones to further their journey.

“HATCH Venture Builder has evolved into a dynamic network of partnerships working to bolster the research and innovation coming from the University of British Columbia through venture creation. Our collaboration with ICICS, SBME, and other partners across the university landscape has furthered our mission of building intra and entrepreneurial leaders at UBC. The ventures in this new cohort will have a significant impact on the growth of our ecosystem and future world,” added Kari LaMotte, Managing Director, entrepreneurship@UBC.