Cotter Agritech is delighted to share the news of our founder, Nick Cotter, being named the winner of the 2021 Verizon/Unloc Young Entrepreneurs Challenge for our SmartWorm software solution aimed at reducing the reliance on chemicals in agriculture. This innovative approach not only boosts productivity and profitability for farmers but also advances the cause of sustainable chemical use in agriculture.
Amidst a field of strong competitors from across Europe, Nick distinguished himself, securing a prize of £10,000 (€11,000), in addition to a valuable package of business mentorship and an invitation to participate in the One Young World 2022 summit from May 16-19, 2022. The final event on March 1, 2022, was an exceptional opportunity for Nick, along with five other finalists, to showcase our business model to a distinguished jury and audience members.
Reflecting on the experience, Nick Cotter emphasized the intensity and honor of the competition, stating, "Pitching is always such a nerve-wracking experience, you can never escape that, it doesn't get any easier, but the key is to be confident. No one can tell your story like you can. Getting shortlisted was a huge honour, especially as the competition is across the whole of Europe. The exceptional calibre of the other finalists was a huge challenge, and it's a huge privilege to be announced the winner. I couldn't be happier!"
The challenge also recognized four outstanding runners-up, each awarded £1,000 to further their startup ventures:
- Harry Gadsby (United Kingdom) with Ango, a platform aiming to guide consumers towards sustainable shopping choices online.
- Naomi McGregor (United Kingdom) with Movetru, a wearable technology designed to monitor and enhance physical alignment and performance.
- Lisa Rossi (Italy) with SoundLence, an industrial headset developed to mitigate unwanted workplace noise.
- Alex Witty (United Kingdom) with Compound, an initiative focused on recycling motorsport industry waste into eco-friendly footwear.
We extend our congratulations to these innovative entrepreneurs for their impressive contributions and groundbreaking solutions in their respective fields.
Scott Lawrence, Group Vice President of Verizon Business in EMEA, and Hayden Taylor, Managing Director of Unloc, both praised the high caliber of talent and innovation represented in this year's challenge. Cotter Agritech is honored by this recognition, which we see as a crucial milestone in our journey to revolutionise agricultural practices with Agtech.
