This year’s University at Buffalo Henry A. Panasci Jr. Technology Entrepreneurship Competition started with 31 competitors that were narrowed down to 12. Tonight, the winner was crowned.
Empasta was named this year’s winner of the region’s premiere collegiate entrepreneurship challenge. The startup produces a cheese-like, plant-based sauce, using whole food ingredients.
"It's a win-win for your taste buds and your health as well," said Neharika Korati, creative director, during Thursday's contest.
The prize: $25,000 in seed funding and in-kind awards from business counseling to legal and accounting services valued at more than $40,000. The startup also gets co-working space from the UB Office of Business and Entrepreneur Partnerships.
Exergi, which develops and deploys a solar energy generator for residential and small commercial buildings, won second place, earning $10,000 in seed funding. The startup won second place in last year's Panasci contest.
Last year, RHM Innovations, which develops assistive bathing technologies to help alleviate strain on caregivers while improving the quality of life of the shower recipient, won the grand prize.
Want to learn more about this year's Panasci winner? Stay tuned for more Buffalo Inno coverage later this week. For all things Buffalo innovation and startups, sign up now for The Beat, Buffalo Inno's weekly newsletter.
