Competition Finalist

DeNovaMed Inc.’s founders used computer-aided drug design to develop a new class of compounds with the potential to treat infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria, or “superbugs.” In the next 12-18 months, the company plans to evaluate its best compounds in animal models of infection, with an ultimate goal of bringing to market a truly new antibiotic.

SabrTech’s vision is to support aviation, oil, and transportation industries to integrate algal-derived products, such as biofuels, lubricants and additives, into their existing technology.

Founded in 2010 in Halifax, NS, the company is developing a cost-efficient scalable technology to enable the commercial production of micro-algae around the globe. SabrTech’s process is designed to accommodate the inherent variation and untapped adaptability of micro-algae, allowing increased production yields anywhere in the world, while using fewer resources.

Based in Yarmouth county, Nova Scotia, SentioLife Solutions' goal is to help individuals be themselves and thrive. The company's products also bring caregivers of the special needs community peace of mind while supporting the individuals themselves. The main product, Kid Companions Chewelry, is a medical device that functions as a chewable and wearable sensory tool for children, teens and adults with sensory issues. It is a discrete and age-appropriate alternative to traditional oral motor and manipulative tools.

Billdidit Inc. develops and sells products for the music industry, specifically for drum equipment. The company’s first innovation is the patented Coady Clutch™, the world's first passive hi-hat drop clutch, allowing drummers to engage and disengage their hi-hat cymbals during live performances. The company also sells two related accessories, the Coady Wash Control and the Coady Trip Arm, both of which have patents pending. All products are also available as a combination product called the Coady Combo.

LST Energy Inc. has the world's first purpose-built grass and multi-fuel pellet furnace for residential and industrial applications that burns continuously without maintenance or physical intervention. The furnance will provide pellet stove users flexibility in the biomass fuel they want to use in their stove – meaning they can use a lower costing, more readily available source.

Most fireworks displays around the world are electrically ignited with a pyrogen igniter. Pyrogen igniters are sensitive to static electricity, friction, crushing, cutting, radio frequency energy, and thunderstorms, and are classified as dangerous goods when transporting or storing. Solar Flare Igniters (SFI) do not use pyrogen and are impervious to the hazards of pyrogen igniters. Installation by experienced crew can be done in advance and prior to shipping. Unfired fireworks can be dismantled after a show without the need of removing the SFI.

Tether has developed a simple and inexpensive way for laptop users to connect to the internet through smartphones, including the BlackBerry. For users who do not have free wired or WiFi access, but need to connect their laptops to the internet in an airport or a taxi, for example, Tether enables users to quickly connect through their smartphones, for a one-time fee, without incurring any additional charges. Tether has attracted worldwide media attention, including coverage in The New York Times, and has already been sold to thousands of users.