Startup Canada has announced the top six finalists in their Startup Global Virtual Pitch Competition, a key event leading up to the 2024 Startup Global Pitch Competition Grand Finale.
Daniel Lirette, CEO of GrowDoc App Inc., stands out as one of the finalists. GrowDoc is revolutionizing agriculture with its cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence solution. The company employs an in-house developed AI algorithm and a research-based dataset that can instantly diagnose a myriad of plant diseases using just a smartphone camera. This breakthrough technology, which utilizes a machine learning model for object detection, coupled with an intuitive and affordable installation, serves as GrowDoc’s key differentiator in the AgriTech sector. It empowers farmers with timely, reliable, actionable insights for eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions. The unique approach of GrowDoc has garnered a rapidly expanding user base.
Led by Daniel Lirette, a seasoned startup builder with a decade of experience, GrowDoc’s team also boasts experts in machine learning and research. Lirette’s inclusion among the top finalists highlights the significant impact and potential of GrowDoc in the agricultural tech space, reflecting the company’s promising future in the global market.
“Being recognized as one of the top six finalists in the Startup Global Virtual Pitch Competition is a great honor for GrowDoc” says Lirette. “This recognition helps us highlight our mission to support farmers and growers in reducing crop losses and enhancing food security. Our technology improves operational efficiencies and IPM strategies, leading to healthier crops. This recognition increases our visibility and opens doors for new partnerships, allowing us to further support growers in achieving sustainable and productive harvests.”
The competition, which drew 240 Canadian entrepreneurs from various industries, emphasized the strength of Canadian small businesses and provided a platform for early-stage entrepreneurs to gain exposure and valuable feedback. The finalists will compete in the Grand Finale on October 30th in Kitchener-Waterloo, where they will vie for a share of a $70,000 cash prize pool.