As part of the seventh annual LiON’S LAIR competition, 15 startup businesses spent their summer with Innovation Factory to develop their pitch and media relations skills.

After a head-to-head mini pitch competition, Innovation Factory and the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce the top 10 companies who will move on to face the Lions with a 15-minute pitch filmed on Cable 14.

Aiva Labs, BridesMade, Dash MD, Dolled Up Desserts, Gene Blueprint, healthypets.io, HiNT Neuro, Lumago, Nanophyll, and Oneiric Hockey will all get that opportunity.

“Our top 10 is truly representative of the economic diversity and growth that Hamilton and the surrounding area has experienced since the competition’s inception,” said David Carter, Executive Director at Innovation Factory. “We can see a wide range of industries and products represented, and for the first time, the majority of our finalist companies are led by female founders and co-founders. It’s exciting to see the competition reflect larger, positive trends in entrepreneurship.”

The 10 finalists will now compete for over $160,000 in cash and in-kind prizes. The winners will be announced live at the LiON’S LAIR gala September 27 at Carmen’s Banquet Centre.

Innovation Factory and the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce are pleased to collaborate with local organizations and businesses in providing prizing and event support. The competition would not be possible without the support of these generous partners.

Tickets to the gala will go on sale mid-August and will be available at lionslair.ca. This event sells out every year, so stay tuned for upcoming announcements.