Originally published in 2022. Updated July 2025 for context.
From June 3–5, 2022, over 60 aspiring entrepreneurs came together to compete in the 11th edition of RampUp Weekend. In just 50 hours, they formed teams, built minimum viable products (MVPs), and pitched their business ideas to a panel of expert judges. By Sunday night, three standout startups earned $16,000 in cash prizes and the experience of a lifetime.
If you missed the action, you can watch the recap video:
First Place: Inspect-Ear
Team: Allan Scott (Captain), Jamie O’Neill, Christian Madsen
Allan Scott, a certified engineering technologist and bridge inspector, pitched a game-changing idea: acoustic bridge inspection software.
“It runs on a mobile device and helps inspectors identify hidden defects in timber and concrete bridges using the hammer tapping technique. Our software listens to the sound, identifies the defect, and records the data—removing guesswork and improving safety.”
Scott credits the weekend’s energy, mentorship, and fast-paced format for turning a solo idea into a functioning business pitch.
“My first pitch survived Friday night, and two strangers quickly became incredible teammates. We tackled a mountain of work in two days. It was stressful, it was tiring—but absolutely worth it.”
Second Place: Connextions on the Spectrum
Team: Demetre Balaktsis (Captain), Chris Hall, Sarah London, Hussein Agoushi, Joselyne Balaktsis
This social therapy app helps neurodivergent individuals safely build meaningful relationships. Key features include a chatbox conversation coach, a “guardian angel” wingperson, and built-in AI safety tools.
“People on the autism spectrum struggle with social connection,” said Balaktsis. “75% never experience dating, 5% marry, and 47% live with their parents. Our app aims to change that.”
Backed by personal stories and validation from other participants, the app quickly gained traction.
“95% of end-users loved the concept. Three organizations agreed to partner with us. RampUp gave us the push we needed to build something real.”
Crowd Favourite: The Little Greenhouse That Could
Team: Trina Semenchuk (Captain), Jessica Watson, Angel Esteban Labrador Rivas, Naimur Rashid Maher
This team captured hearts—and votes—with their infectious energy and e-commerce platform for indoor agriculture.
“Farmiley connects indoor growers with local tech and educational resources to build a stronger indoor agriculture ecosystem,” said Semenchuk. “We wanted to solve the disconnect in the emerging indoor ag industry.”
RampUp Weekend helped the team test, pivot, and validate their idea in real time.
“The mentorship and teamwork were invaluable,” said Semenchuk. “If you want to go far—and have fun doing it—go together.”
Ready to Build Your Startup?
If you weren’t able to join RampUp Weekend but have an idea you’d like to turn into a business, we want to hear from you. Fill out our intake form and our Programming Team will reach out.
North Forge’s Founders Program supports entrepreneurs from idea to market with world-class mentorship, resources, and community. All North Forge employees sign non-disclosure agreements—your idea is safe with us.
