MTatt Wins Top Prize at Startupfest 2025, Surpassing $1 Million in Winnings for the First Time
Medtech startup mTatt clinched both the Finest of Fest and Audience Choice awards at Startupfest 2025, marking a significant milestone in the event’s history. The 15th edition of Startupfest, which concluded on July 11, witnessed over 10 startups securing collective investment commitments exceeding $1 million, a record-breaking achievement for the tech festival.
Samuel Babity, CEO of mTatt, expressed his exhilaration stating, “It was crazy to pitch in front of that many individuals. I’ve done smaller things in the past, but never quite on this scale.” The event brought together creators, investors, tech enthusiasts, and environmental advocates from across the nation for three days of networking, panels, and pitches.
MTatt’s Groundbreaking Innovation
mTatt, based in Montreal, stood out by revolutionizing blood test biomarker detection using temporary tattoos embedded with fluorescent ink. This innovative approach offers a painless and discreet method to identify and measure biomarkers, earning them the prestigious Best of Fest $100,000 award and the Audience Choice Award.
Startupfest CEO Philippe Telio announced that Vessel, a Montreal-based startup, would facilitate investment opportunities for mTatt through a special purpose vehicle, enhancing the company’s growth prospects.
Recognition of Diverse Entrepreneurship
The event also celebrated diversity by awarding specific prizes to entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups. Vancouver-based Tydra Laboratories received the Women in Tech award for their groundbreaking technology that extracts valuable materials from crustacean waste, transforming the resource extraction process.
Additionally, two Black Entrepreneur Investment prizes of $100,000 each were awarded to Serenity Power and Wosler, highlighting their contributions to cleantech and healthcare technology, respectively. These initiatives aimed to uplift diversity and inclusion within the entrepreneurial landscape.
Pioneering Impact Investment
Aruna Transformation, a Halifax-based startup focused on sustainable menstrual product waste management, secured the inaugural $100,000 Impact Investment Reward. Their innovative approach to developing compostable menstrual pads aligns with the principles of the circular economy, promoting positive environmental impact.
Furthermore, Tree Track, a Vancouver startup focusing on reforestation, received a surprise $50,000 Impact Investment Reward for their novel seedpod germination formula. These initiatives underscored the event’s commitment to supporting startups driving meaningful change.
Empowering Emerging Entrepreneurs
Startupfest also recognized emerging talent, with HyC Light winning the Student Entrepreneur prize for their innovative solar energy solution. New Grounds secured the Grannies’ Choice Award, showcasing their unique coffee grounds product.
The event’s dedication to fostering innovation was further highlighted with grants awarded to Enda Technologies and TissueTinker for their advancements in AI-driven medical documentation and bioprinting technology, respectively.
Startupfest 2025 exemplified a convergence of groundbreaking ideas, diverse entrepreneurship, and impactful innovation, setting a new standard for the tech festival landscape.
