Excitement mounts in anticipation of the groundbreaking ideas and innovations that will be showcased at the upcoming Faculty of Science Innovation Fair. On February 23, 2024, the Energy Transition Centre will once again host this dynamic event, bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts from diverse fields. To provide a sneak peek into what attendees can expect, we sat down with Akpeko Gasonoo, co-founder and director of PrintedSUN Inc., a pioneering company in the printed organic light-emitting diode (OLED) sector. Akpeko’s no stranger to Innovate Calgary events, as he was the first-place prize winner of the Newcomer Founders Pitch Event, held at Platform Calgary back in November.
Reflecting on his past experience at the Innovation Fair, Akpeko Gasonoo shares insights into their journey and the invaluable opportunities the event presents for startups like PrintedSUN Inc.
“Our experience at the Innovation Fair was truly remarkable and inspiring,” Akpeko recalls. “We showcased our latest project on electronic bandages integrated with OLED technology, aimed at revolutionizing wound care and skin therapy. The fair provided us a platform to demonstrate our innovation to a diverse audience, including potential investors, industry experts, and fellow innovators.”
Emphasizing the importance of events like the Innovation Fair, Akpeko highlights how they contribute to the growth and visibility of startups. “Events like these are crucial for startups like us,” he explains. “They offer a unique opportunity to showcase our technologies, gain visibility, and receive direct feedback. They facilitate connections with industry stakeholders and potential partners who are instrumental in our growth and development.”
When discussing the networking experience at the fair, Akpeko expresses enthusiasm for the connections made. “The networking opportunities were exceptional,” he says. “We were able to connect with other innovators, industry leaders, innovation incubators, and potential partners who share our vision and goals. These interactions have opened doors to potential collaborations that we are currently exploring.”
Post-fair, Akpeko shares how they leveraged the insights gained to refine their project and pursue actionable steps. “We were able to refine our project based on the feedback received,” he states. “We identified several potential collaboration opportunities, which we are actively pursuing. The fair also reinforced the importance of user-centric design in medical innovations.”
In offering advice to startups and companies attending the fair, Akpeko emphasizes the importance of preparation, engagement, and openness to feedback. “My advice would be to come prepared to showcase your innovation in the most engaging way possible,” he advises. “Be open to feedback and ready to network. It’s not just about what you present, but also about the connections you make and the collaborative opportunities you explore.”
With Akpeko Gasonoo’s insightful perspective as our guide, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Faculty of Science Innovation Fair and the possibilities it holds. Mark your calendars for February 23, 2024, and register to attend an event that’s bound to be full of discovery, inspiration, and innovation. See you there!