On February 25, 2021, Rachel Bartholomew, CEO and founder of Hyivy Health, pitched her intelligent and holistic pelvic therapy device for women with a pelvic health diagnosis during the Odlum Brown Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE) Gala: Pitch for the Purse Finale. Hyivy Health received the second-highest number of audience votes and was selected as one of two runner-ups, receiving a $5,000 reward. The Pitch for the Purse Finale was held virtually for the first time, with over 1,850 viewing the pitches. FWE’s programs and events are designed to empower women entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and challenges that women face in today’s economy.
The Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE) is a Canadian charity that educates, mentors, and connects women entrepreneurs to be wildly successful. Hyivy Health was mentored by Sophie Gupta, principal at Yaletown Partners and co-founder and board member at Equality Fundhas.
Hyivy has developed a connected pelvic rehabilitation device for women experiencing symptoms from pelvic cancers and diseases. Their device provides real-time information from multiple sensors and mechanical functions to help keep track of progress, adapt treatment plans and provide more effective, comfortable rehab experiences.
“The FWE Pitch for the Purse journey has been incredible to showcase our story across Canada and gain the exposure we need for our current fundraising and patient recruitment activities,” said Bartholomew. “We are honoured to have been selected out of 400 Canadian, female-founded businesses and will continue our efforts to promote women’s health and entrepreneurship as a part of our company vision and goals.”
The Odlum Brown FWE Gala: Pitch for the Purse Finale also featured cameos from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, CBC’s Dragon Den investor Michelle Romanow, Canadian-American actor Ryan Reynolds, Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan, and Savannah Guthrie co-anchor of the NBC News’ Today show.
Learn more about Hyivy Health.
Watch Rachel Bartholomew, CEO and founder of Hyivy Health pitch: