Student Entrepreneurs Shine at Ninth Annual Innovation Expo

The Eller College of Management McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship hosted the ninth annual Innovation Expo on February 19, bringing together students, faculty, and visitors to the University of Arizona Mall.

The Innovation Expo serves as a showcase for students in the New Venture Development (NVD) Program, to present their startup ventures and cutting-edge business ideas. With booths set up in breakout areas, student teams demonstrate their solutions to real-world problems, spanning industries from health and wellness to technology and consumer goods.

Among the innovations featured this year were:

• Aqua Guard Safety – Waterproof, illuminated bracelets designed to enhance visibility and improve water safety for children.
• Better – A single-serving, protein-packed supplement that mixes into any beverage, available in multiple flavors and formulated with five key ingredients for overall well-being.
• Global Bites – An international snack vending machine business at the University of Arizona, connecting international students with familiar flavors and offering global snacks to local students, with plans to expand nationwide.
• Kovera – A premium clear handbag featuring a removable liner for style, privacy, and customization, seamlessly transitioning from stadium events to everyday use while meeting security requirements.
• Lumiguard – A safety-focused pet leash designed for low-light conditions, incorporating advanced lighting and noise-repellent technology to protect both pets and owners.
• PrimePup – An all-natural CBD and multivitamin supplement designed to support canine calmness, immunity, and overall health.
• Swift Seat – An assistive car seat attachment designed for individuals with mobility limitations, improving ease of access and comfort.
• WashDivis – A revolutionary laundry basket with built-in sections that go straight into the washer and dryer, streamlining the laundry process by organizing clothes in advance.
• WOTR – A premium hydration system revolutionizing how people filter and consume water on the go.
• Open Jet – A service connecting travelers with discounted private jet flights by leveraging unused “empty leg” flight paths.
• Steadfast – A reimagined training wheel designed to enhance balance and stability for young cyclists.

The Innovation Expo continues to be a testament to the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Eller students. As these ventures evolve, they have the potential to make a lasting impact across industries, reflecting the McGuire Center’s commitment to fostering the next generation of innovators.