The EDGE Philanthropitch Winners Showcase Solutions with Impact

“With this win, we are on our way to building the digital infrastructure necessary for modern global immigration. We’re levelling the playing field for international students; using technology to empower and better integrate new immigrants in Canada,” remarked Kushi Kaur, Joint App’s founder and CEO after being awarded the top prize of $10,000 for its digital platform that aids in digitizing and centralizing aspects of the immigration process for international students.  

“The win and the opportunity to pitch at The EDGE Philanthropitch competition was amazing; it helps our startup move forward with our philanthropic vision.” – Kushi Kaur, Founder of Joint App

On October 3, the inaugural EDGE Philanthropitch took place at Sheridan’s Oakville campus, placing the spotlight on social enterprises in the Greater Toronto Area. In collaboration with the Oakville Community Foundation, the largest charitable asset in the Town of Oakville dedicated to building community through philanthropy, this competition saw changemakers take to the stage and pitch for a chance to secure one of three cash prizes – plus an additional opportunity to be crowned Crowd Favourite by guests – with all prizes totalling $25,000. 

It was an energetic evening that began with introductions of Sheridan, EDGE, the Oakville Community Foundation and the judges. On the panel was Lily Tse, Founder of ThinkDirty, Robert Latham, a business expert with over 50+ years of experience, and Steve Goodrich, the Founder of Some Like It Hot, and the Stephen C. Goodrich Foundation. 

The finalists then made their pitch, with each highlighting pressing social or environmental challenges and how their venture helps to solve them, leaving the crowd inspired. 

The EDGE Philanthropitch 2019 Winners

Congratulations to: 

• 1st ($10,000): Joint App – a digital platform that aids in digitizing and centralizing aspects of the immigration process for international students.
• 2nd ($7,500): Circular Toys  – an environmentally-conscious subscription service for quality and developmentally-appropriate children’s toys
• 3rd ($5,000) and Crowd Favourite ($2,500): LinkMentalHealth – a website that connects people with mental health services

The Oakville Community Foundation generously presented a $25,000 cheque for four event prizes. “There’s a lot that can be achieved by investing in people,” Wendy Rinella, CEO of the OCF says. “Supporting initiatives like The EDGE Philanthropitch is one way for our Foundation to inspire grassroots change.”  

“It’s moving to hear how passionate the founders are about their ideas that, at their core, are looking to positively affect people and the environment,” says Renee Devereaux, EDGE’s Director of Entrepreneurship and Changemaking. “This event provides a platform for them to network and receive funds to continue growing their ventures.” 

Thank you to all who attended and made this evening possible – the Oakville Community Foundation, our judges, team, emcee, Sheridan and the Sheridan Student Union. 

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EDGE acknowledges the support of the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

EDGE gratefully acknowledges the financial support of The Henderson Family Trust, The Latham Family Fund, and the Stephen Goodrich Foundation at the Oakville Community Foundation, a registered charitable public foundation serving the Oakville Community. 

Learn more about The EDGE Philanthropitch.