(PRESS RELEASE) The Pet Innovation Challenge, hosted by Factory and sponsored by New Hope Network, is a new event which will highlight innovative and emerging pet health brands and tackle the opportunities and challenges of the current pet health industry. The event will take place Oct. 2-3 at Factory in Bethlehem, PA, and is open to the public.
Ten pre-selected, cutting-edge pet health companies will kick off the event on Oct. 2 at 5:30 p.m. with a live pitch slam competition. The presenting brands include: Animal Biome, microbiome testing and supplements for health and wellness; Because Animals, a biotechnology company creating pet food made with cultured meat; Chippin, the “Beyond Meat of Pet Food”; Hachi Tami, a smart cat litter box that helps early detection of chronic kidney disease; Jiminy’s, dog food and treats using insect protein; Maranda, veterinary-approved lab tests from home; Mella Petcare, a first-generation thermometer device that allows for non-rectal temperature readings; Obe, a patented pet health and wellness system using smart technology for personalized dog wellness and nutrition; Primal Health, a patented, clinically-proven drinkable dental prebiotic; and Shameless Pets, the first brand to focus on upcycling within pet treats.
These brands represent the most innovative and advanced trends in the pet health industry. The winner of the pitch slam will receive a cash prize, six months of entrepreneur services from Factory, and a free booth at Natural Products Expo East 2020. The limited ticket event is open to the public, all proceeds will go to the Center for Animal Health and Welfare.
On Oct. 3, the Innovation Challenge will begin at 8:30 a.m., bringing pet health leaders, entrepreneurs and industry veterans together for hands-on problem solving in a mastermind solutions event. Animal health expert Katy Nelson, veterinarian and host and executive producer of “The Pet Show with Dr. Katy” will begin with the keynote address discussing the state of the pet industry, and her work with pet-related companies from Fortune 500 corporations to pet start-ups. Next, 10 pet health brands will present their biggest challenges to the larger group, and then attending participants will be assigned groups based on their experience and skill sets to brainstorm and collaborate on finding real-time solutions. This session is open to industry professionals and investors at no cost. Information about the event is available at: newhope.com/petchallenge