Health
Innovative pet care startups converge for a transformative week in France
In a demonstration of their commitment to diversity, equity, and innovation in the pet care industry, Leap Venture Academy is delighted to announce its upcoming Fellowship for early-stage pet care founders. Set to take place in Montpellier, France, from November 6-10, this event, held in collaboration with Royal Canin, will bring together an extraordinary cohort of 13 innovative startups.
Montpellier, renowned as the hub of innovation in France, provides the ideal backdrop for this initiative. Leap takes pride in returning to this city to conduct its Academy fellowship program and is honored to be officially welcomed with an opening statement from the Mayor of the Montpellier Metropole, Michaël Delafosse.
Traditionally featuring 8-10 companies in their fellowship program, Leap is expanding its scope this year by embracing 13 exceptional startups. This expansion underscores the company's unwavering dedication to promoting inclusivity and spearheading transformative change in the pet care landscape.
The 13 pet care startups joining the program include:
BistroCat (USA) stands out as the world's pioneer in fully automated wet cat food feeders, delivering premium meals while monitoring your feline's feeding preferences and behaviors.
ControlPoint (USA), an in vitro diagnostic company, is dedicated to advancing animal health globally through the development of innovative products.
Edgar (France) enhances the connection between pets and their owners by providing instant access to expert veterinary advice and support.
Furevr by FOMMRE (UK) introduces an app simplifying the end-of-life pet journey.
Innovative Pet Lab (USA) offers at-home gut health tests, equipping pet parents and veterinarians with scientifically backed tools to identify potential causes of GI issues and provide personalized care for healthier, happier, and longer lives.
Interplay (USA) keeps dog parents informed on the go with their crate attachment, the PlayTach.
JAMPY (Italy) presents a sustainable wellness line for modern dogs.
SN Biomedical (Canada) empowers pet owners with affordable diagnostics, starting with Kidney-Chek, a saliva test to screen their cat and dog's kidney health at home.
Spot Vet (USA) delivers a community-centric, lifestyle-focused veterinary service offering wallet-friendly pet medications and affordable preventive care during educational and social events, providing pet parents with a convenient and engaging way to ensure their pets' well-being.
The Coda Group Inc. (USA) operates as an end-of-life marketplace and resource platform.
Veterinary Well-Being Buddy (USA) offers comprehensive health and well-being solutions for individuals, teams, and companies in veterinary medicine.
Vidapaw (USA) specializes in tailored stem cell therapies while contributing to pharmaceutical research and development.
VNG Pets (Australia) produces minimally processed and sustainability-driven therapeutic diets and treats for dogs and cats.
At the core of this fellowship are the diverse and visionary founders representing six countries behind each of the 13 participating companies. From cutting-edge products to revolutionary services, these startups are poised to shape the future of pet care.
"Having achieved a significant milestone of five years at Leap, we take great pride in launching our fifth Academy program for early-stage pet care founders," said Brett Yates, CEO of Michelson Found Animals and a key executive at Leap Venture Academy. "This weeklong initiative underscores our steadfast commitment to providing essential resources, extensive networks, and invaluable mentorship opportunities to an ever-expanding global community of pet care entrepreneurs. As we broaden the horizons of the companies we support, we remain dedicated to deepening the impact of our services."
The fellowship offers a week of immersive programming, including engaging speaker sessions, collaborative problem-solving, and invaluable networking opportunities. Industry experts will lead founders through dynamic discussions, enabling them to gain insights and connections that will accelerate their businesses.
A notable feature of the fellowship is the recognition of outstanding achievements. A peer-voted award of $15,000 will be presented to one standout company, chosen by their fellow founders. This recognition not only symbolizes the efforts of the chosen startup but also demonstrates the strength of collaboration within the cohort. Additionally, each participating company will receive $5,000 USD to support their journey.
Expressing her excitement, Rachel Sheppard, Director of Ventures at Mars Petcare and Co-Lead for Leap Venture Studio, stated, "We are absolutely thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the remarkable 13 pet care companies joining our Academy program this year. Our gratitude goes out to our valued partner, Royal Canin, whose support allows us to offer founders an extended network of industry experts."
Stay connected with Leap’s social media channels and official website for updates leading up to the transformative week in France this November. The future of the pet care industry is being shaped, and this diverse cohort of visionary founders is leading the way.
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