Shift the Way You Shop
Help the Shelfies!
Some Shelfies are selling their products and would love your business. Others might be doing this for the first time and are looking for a lot of support to clarify their vision. Whether you're interested in purchasing or offering feedback please browse the Shelfies below and SHOP, TEST & INVEST!
Imagine your product on our shelves.
Our Shelfies have about a month to showcase and test their ideas. They could be working on a product or service that is already developed or starting at the beginning, with just an idea. During their month at Shift they will receive a stipend and programming, including a bootcamp, Feedback Friday, and group pop-up market.
Each semester there are multiple opportunities for current VCU students, alumni, and community founders to test their products, services, and ideas on the shelf at Shift.
SHOP
Many of the Shelfies at SHIFT have products and services for sale. Use the links below to support these Shelfies with your dollars.
TEST
Support the Shelfies with your feedback! Whatever stage their idea is in, your insights will help them develop their venture ideas.
INVEST
Looking to invest in a startup or entrepreneur? Some of the Shelfies are are seeking investment and excited to talk with you!
CURRENT SHELFIES
ART’s Photography
ART’s Photography is a business created by Amaree Turner. She provides professional photos of local businesses to students and the rest of the wider VCU campus community. Amaree’s top-notch photos are also available for prints in the form of posters and postcards, allowing you to keep your memories forever.
Team
Amaree Turner
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Interdisciplinary Studies
Beneath the Surface
Siera loves two things, learning and playing. She started working on Beneath the Surface to increase the confidence of language learners when practicing their target language. Beneath the Surface is a language and cultural exposure card game that aims to encourage cross-cultural communication and create an open dialogue that allows for candid discussion.
Team
Siera Fountain
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Communication Arts
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
Birdsong’s Secret Garden
At Birdsong’s Secret Garden, we believe in the power of creativity that inspires the act of relaxation. Our homemade wine and intimate class setting provides the perfect environment to explore your artistic side. We offer a range of sessions for all skill levels, from painting to vision boards to camping retreats. Our mission is to provide a space where you can escape the stresses of daily life and connect with your creativity and inner peace.
Team
Tonya Birdsong Chavis
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - Fashion Merchandising
BodySync
BodySync is developing a smartwatch with electrochemical sensors for continuous health monitoring, a gap in today's healthcare market. Utilizing sweat analysis for electrolytes and biomarkers, this noninvasive device provides longitudinal and continuous health monitoring and pairs with a mobile app featuring chat AI, nutritional scanner, and health data display. BodySync is also working to develop customizable bands for blood pressure and EMG, enhancing features like muscle activity tracking and seizure detection.
Team
Thrishaa Jayaprakash, Fatima Shaikh, Rudav Kathiravan, and Arya Nalavade
Development Stage
Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Biomedical Engineering
Bosun’s Brew
Bosun’s Brew is a hot sauce brand that brings bold flavors in unique sauces with ingredients you can name. Bosun’s Brew is a Richmond small business that wants to blend flavor while still bringing the heat. Try their sauce and follow them on social media!
Team
Malcolm Pulley, Sidney Parks, and Turner Parks
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - Computer Science
Cultivated Coil:
A Loc Detox Tool
The Cultivated Coil Loc Detox Tool promotes fresh retwist confidence for the at-home loctician and DIY stylist. This prototype will allow users to efficiently fight against the annoyances of lint, debris, and product build-up while maintaining the structural integrity of their hair. Take back control and fall in love with your loc journey with Cultivated Coil.
Team
Jerica Simmons
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
Culturally Rooted Curriculum
Embark on an enriching educational adventure with Culturally Rooted Curriculum, designed to captivate young minds with diverse stories from around the world. This curriculum goes beyond traditional learning by incorporating engaging, project-based activities with each book, transforming knowledge acquisition into hands-on exploration. Tailored for homeschoolers and those seeking a multicultural perspective, our carefully selected picture and chapter books celebrate the vibrant tapestry of global cultures, with a spotlight on people of color.
Team
Alycia Wright and Steven Wright
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - Psychology
VCU Alumni - Accounting
Diamond's Crystals
Diamond's Crystals handmade crystal jewelry and candles are created with love, designed with intention, and crafted for self-adornment, healing, and spiritual growth.
Team
Diamond Chanell
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - Psychology
EatMindfull
EatMindfull is a wearable device hoping to decrease stress-eating events through a gentle tactile reminder and noninvasive health metric monitoring. Instead of using a digital alert, EatMindfull aims to promote mindfulness around eating without the stress of another item on the to-do list.
Team
Lindsey Treweek and Uma Manicka
Development Stage
Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering
VCU Computer Science
Enchanted Cherry
Enchanted Cherry crafts art products that go beyond aesthetics to foster mental stability and spiritual connection. Our creations, made with eco-friendly materials, embody tranquility and sustainability, and achieve a balance between artistry, mental well-being, and environmental responsibility. At Enchanted Cherry, we aspire to create more than just art; we aim to curate experiences that nurture the mind, heart, and planet.
Team
Ayanna Cherry
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business
Business Management & Accounting
Everything but the Booze (EBTB)
Introducing the latest and greatest shocktails from Everything But The Booze (EBTB)! EBTB is a line of fresh, juicy, non-alcoholic beverages aimed to bring the fun and flavor back to parties and gatherings for sober curious folks. EBTB was founded by VCU Brandcenter students who started the company as a class project and are now on their way to bringing these awesome non-alcoholic "shocktails" to market this spring.
Team
Celeste Chance & Catherine Emblidge
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Brandcenter
Extreme Fitness and Nutrition
Extreme Fitness and Nutrition offers customized training programs for athletes and adults to unleash their full potential to reach peak performance. Extreme Fitness and Nutrition is run by Antoinette who is an expert trainer. She offers services in speed training, strength training, nutrition, mental performance, mentorship, speed clinics, and online personal training.
Team
Antoinette Y. Padilla
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
FounderWay
FounderWay is all about helping founders! Cody Jung joined the program this year to test his software with the Shelfies at SHIFT Retail Lab. FounerWay provides free self-led guidance to go from idea to first customer where user responses are used to personalize AI and business tools. Participants of the software will get their own AI business assistant.
Team
Cody Jung & Kiran Panjwani
Development Stage
Prototype
Community Member
Fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Is your startup poised for growth but lacks full-time executive resources? Adam Woodward, your Fractional COO, leverages expertise from working with 100s of companies to ensure rapid, sustainable profitability growth. He offers CEOs peace of mind, focusing on critical tasks while he optimizes operations for scalability. Unlike traditional advisory roles or lengthy executive searches; Adam provides committed leadership with flexibility. Ready to propel your business? Partner with Adam today!
Team
Adam Woodward
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
FYR Consulting
FYR Consulting, led by Erica, specializes in enhancing workplace satisfaction and culture. They offer 1:1 coaching and team workshops, both in-person and virtually. Whether you’re an individual seeking personalized career guidance or a manager in need of tailored workshops, Erica’s 25 years of experience in navigating team dynamics make her an expert. She is certified as a Gallup Strengths Coach and a Certified DiSC Practitioner.
Team
Erica Emmett
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
Gewd Botanicals
Gewd Botanicals is an all-natural skincare brand that prioritizes both science and your skin, and aims to be Gewd for the Earth, you, and everyone in between! By analyzing the entire regimen of skin care, we’ve created several products to make your skin look and feel Gewd.
Team
Malique Middleton
Development Stage
Ready for market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Medicine (CERT), Master of Product Innovation
Harmonious
The Harmonious App offers a tailored guide for menstruators, providing cycle-specific support to alleviate symptoms. It features a personalized calendar, dietary recommendations, exercise dos and don'ts, symptom predictions, and an emotional/physical tracker. Additionally, it includes educational resources on menstruation, sexual health, and gender inclusivity. Developed by Levy, this accessible, affordable app aims to comprehensively support individuals through their menstrual journey.
Team
Levy Vo
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Interdisciplinary Studies
Howard's Gourmet Cookies
For 20+ years, Nate's been sending his delicious cookies as holiday gifts to friends, family, colleagues, and clients. We start with high-quality triple chocolate cookies, from a secret recipe, and we marry that with a pool of seedless raspberry and liqueur filling in the center. Only the finest ingredients. No preservatives. Soon, you'll be able to pre-order these as holiday gifts, rushed to your favorite people in the continental US!
Team
Nate Toft
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Brandcenter Alumni
Just Suga LLC
Handmade hair oil blends using essential oils and Ayurvedic herbs. Our “Be” Loved Hair Oil Trio consists of the Stimulating Scalp Oil to promote exponential growth, the Scalp Cleanser Oil to help with different scalp conditions such as psoriasis, and the Moisturizing Scalp Oil to moisturize the hair and scalp. All of our hair blends have growth properties in them and there are customizable options for those who have allergies.
Team
Shara Thomas
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
Mapulder
Mapulder is an artistic and sustainable clothing brand that weaves nature's beauty into unique and eco-friendly fashion. With a deep commitment to craftsmanship, we source handcrafted textiles from diverse regions of India, creating one-of-a-kind garments that blend comfort and style seamlessly. Our signature designs, characterized by practical features like big pockets, reflect our dedication to providing distinctive and sustainable fashion choices. Join us in the journey where artistry, nature, and fashion unite.
Team
Smita Damodar
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCUarts
VCU Executive MBA
Otterwise
It's hard to find the right career. It's even harder to launch that career when employers don't have a complete picture of your skills and abilities. Otterwise connects job candidates to collaborative projects where they can showcase skills beyond the resume to potential employers. If you're starting your career or looking for talented candidates, follow the link to give feedback and help Aliyah launch Otterwise!
Team
Aliyah Desautels
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - Interdisciplinary Studies
Polavizor
Have you ever been blinded by the sun while driving? Susan has and is exploring ways to solve this problem with The Polavizor. The Polavizor has 2 retractable doors for a UV-polarized screen and can convert back to a standard car visor. This design allows for more customized options to block direct sunlight, especially when looking at a stoplight. This improved car visor allows for greater visibility and may improve driver safety.
Team
Susan Lewis
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
Postcard Pack
Postcard Packs are booklets of five postcards and stamps on perforated tear-away pages, making sending handwritten notes faster than ever before. The packs come in various themes including historic buildings of your city, local parks, nature scenery, and even recipes to give your loved ones a taste of your area. Keeping in touch the old-school way has never been so easy.
Team
Luke Florio
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
Preau Leather
At Preau Leather, our mission is to merge the artisanal craftsmanship of leatherwork with contemporary designs to offer our customers accessories that not only enhance their style but also reflect their unique personality. We are committed to delivering superior quality, attention to detail, and a touch of luxury in every piece we create.
Team
Jasmine Grier
Development Stage
Minimum Viable Product
Community Member
Project Z
Project Z is an innovative initiative focused on enhancing student well-being and academic success through the introduction of state-of-the-art nap pods on educational campuses. These specially designed pods provide a tranquil, private environment for students to engage in short, restorative naps. Equipped with features such as soundproofing, adjustable lighting, and ergonomic design, Project Z's nap pods are tailored to promote maximum relaxation and rejuvenation within a brief period. The goal is to bolster memory retention, elevate alertness, and diminish stress among students, fostering a more attentive, motivated, and healthy academic community.
Team
Anirudh Mepperla and Kirk Richardson
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU HPEX
Royal Feast
Royal Feast blends urban style with culinary creativity, presenting a collection marked by vivid colors and food-inspired patterns. It's more than clothing; it's a celebration of flavor and style. This unique fusion introduces bold garments that make a statement, each accompanied by a recipe to enhance the culinary connection. Embrace a mix of urban fashion and gastronomy, where every item is a reflection of culinary art. Let Royal Feast inspire your sense of adventure and creativity, dressing your life in the tastes of the world.
Team
Tyrone Frye
Development Stage
Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - da Vinci Center for Innovation
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Sacred Serenity Selfcare
Sacred Serenity Selfcare is a brand that represents TRANSFORMATION. The goal is to influence, inspire, and uplift you to remember and embrace who you are gracefully and unapologetically. Restore the confidence, love, and celebration that is already within you through the use of our plant-based aromatherapy products. Allowing plant medicine to align you with true wholeness.
Team
Jasmine Hough
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni - HPEX
Sharelle's Naturals LLC
Sharelle's Naturals LLC sells all-natural products including Homemade Elderberry Syrup, Whipped Body Butter, Sea Moss Gel, and other all-natural skincare products. Sharelle's goal is to create all-natural products that assist people who suffer from illnesses or sensitive skin. She aims to stand apart from the typical market products that use harsh chemicals and are difficult for consumers to understand.
Team
Sharelle Austin
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
VisiCycle
For bicyclists and other vulnerable road users, VisiCycle, LLC's Signal Bands enable high-visibility, effortless, and understandable hand signaling. The wristbands feature accelerometers that measure hand movement, interpret signal motions, and activate LED patterns similar to cars' signals. With VisiCycle Signal Bands, simply hand signal as usual, and motorists will easily see and understand your intentions on the road.
Team
Andy Pitts
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
ZuWorld Media, LLC.
ZuWorld Media, LLC. is a multimedia company that aims to foster an inclusive world where individuals can connect, collaborate and draw inspiration from one another. In real time that looks like creating effective media for small businesses, hosting diverse & inclusive events for young adults and having merchandise our supporters can wear that will mark them as part of our movement.
Team
Zuri Washington
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Interdisciplinary Studies, Non-Profit Management
Zyra
Zyra blends technical expertise and innovation to create luxurious, authentic leather goods at affordable prices. Led by Shaira Khan, Zyra prioritizes excellence, functionality, and personalized style. Through constant innovation and collaborations, Zyra ensures customer satisfaction while promoting sustainability. Specializing in handcrafted gift sets, especially for groomsmen, Zyra aims to make luxury an everyday experience, helping customers create memorable moments for special occasions.
Team
Shaira Khan
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
PAST SHELFIES
Sol Rise Essentials
A mental wellness brand based in RVA whose overall vision is to be global. We offer affirmation apparel, jewelry and accessories for resilient humans on the grow (including children!). Our merch empowers you to thrive on your best days and those in between.
Team
Soliél Lindsey
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
OneTouchAbove All Natural Haircare
Sheila Ivey, the CEO of SI Beauty Spa and OneTouchAbove , has transformed pain into beauty and every follicle matter. With almost 3 decades of experience, Sheila is eager to empower others and help educate other on how to look and feel their best in a holistic way.
Team
Sheila Ivey
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
Morada Bowls
This “help yourself” mentality smoothie bar aims to not only make the smoothie bowl experience customizable but to also solve the portion size issue that is seen often. With unlimited smoothie base and toppings, this one-of-a-kind experience brings creativity and abundance to every bowl.
Team
Laila Dajani
Development Stage
Idea
Piece of Cake RVA
Piece of Cake RVA provides cakes and cupcakes that cater to everyone’s dietary restrictions and wants to experiment with selling cupcake decorating kits and cake mix jars. All flavors can be customized and use high-quality ingredients!
Team
Saamiya Mohammed
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
Undergraduate Student VCU School of Business: Management & Entrepreneurship
SpellSee
SpellSee is a family word game that could be an app based game or a physical card game.
Team
Taylor Allen, Seth Gathright
Development Stage
Just an Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
Alum: Elementary Ed / Teaching
Treehouse Adventures
Treehouse Adventure are children’s books and products that promote empathy, inclusion and education of childhood hearing loss within our communities.
Team
Narita Snead
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Nursing Alumni
Tow Ninja
A user-friendly web application that simplifies the process of tracking and retrieving towed vehicles, reducing stress for vehicle owners and improving efficiency for tow companies.
Team
Jack Oppenheim
Development Stage
Minimum Viable Product
Schools/Programs Represented
Graduate Student VCU da Vinci Master of Product Innovation Student
Dress For Yourself
A clothing brand that inspires people to overcome their insecurities and express themselves with unique apparel. The mission is simple: Dress authentically.
Team
Mason Miles
Development Stage
Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business: Marketing, Master of Product Innovation
Glass Memories
Glass Memories sells painting kits for kids and teenagers! We offer 5x7 and 8x10 picture frame sizes with different designs for holidays, seasons, and many more!
Team
Anne Saunders
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
AC Photobooth
Annie started out editing photos on her phone for fun years ago. Over time, she developed her skills and discovered her genuine passion for digital art. She now strives to bring her art to new levels which can connect with a vast audience.
Team
Annabel Chilton
Product Type
Digital Art Prints
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
Undergraduate Student, College of Humanities & Sciences Psychology Department
Andrew's Special Seasoning
Andrew has been formulating this seasoning mix for over 20 years, and he uses it on a daily basis. He puts it on EVERYTHING. Friends and family have been gifted this essential spice mix for years, now it can be yours to own.
Team
Andrew Ilnicki
Product Type
Food
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center, Staff
Broad Alley
Alex wants to build community. She is working on a merchandise and apparel brand focused on representing and celebrating Richmond.
Team
Alex Smith-Scales
Product Type
Apparel, General Merchandise
Development Stage
Ready for market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Brandcenter, Creative Brand Management
C’est La Vé
C’est La Vé Organic Breaks is a 100% vegan and organic meat, cheese, nuts, and crackers snack- sized packs. The idea is for C’est La Vé Charcuterie Packs to be an affordable, on-the-go, vegan snack pack for adults who want to save time and effort to get a healthy protein-packed quick bite.
Team
Yosef Mirakov Cohen
Product Type
Food
Development Stage
Ready for market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business
Crochet by Rae
Crochet by Rae is an upcoming crochet business that makes fashionable items for all to wear, ranging from hats to bags.
Team
Raechel McDonald
Product Type
Dog Treats
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
African American Studies Major
The Children’s Soap Company of Virginia
A physician-owned company that formulates and manufactures handmade, hypoallergenic, organic soap for the unique skin and dexterity needs of young children. Ingredient purchase supports the local farm market.
Team
Dr. Amy SM Paul
Product Type
Skincare
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni
Crissmuss
Crissmuss in your mouth is in the concept stage. The product is a traditional Jamaican drink that tackles the problem that many diaspora members like myself face. It's a vibe, a feeling, an experience with familiar food items. Also, a way for my Richmond community to sample Jamaican Flavas and experience a tropical Crissmuss in their Mouth.
Team
Sannia James, Shawn Haye
Product Type
Physical Product
Minimum Viable Product
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
University College B.S Interdisciplinary Studies
Day at a Time Designs
David loves his 3D printer. He’s exploring how to create 3D printed customizable products that are great for individual marketing and small businesses.
Team
David Casey
Product Type
3D printed art and Custom products
Development Stage
Prototype/Physical product
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center Certificate in Product Innovation
Demiq
Demiq aims to create tools and resource to improve the experience of higher education professionals.
Team
Roy Roach III
Product Type
Digital Product, Digital Service
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Community Member
Divine Plush
Daisana created this consignment boutique for her gals who love to stand out, and carry themselves with class and the epitome of gracefulness while strutting with the hottest pieces.
Team
Daisana Pittman
Product Type
Luxury Consignment
Development Stage
Ready for market
Schools/Programs Represented
Undergraduate Student, VCUarts Fashion Merchandising
Draco’s Dog Treats
Inspired by my picky eater, Draco. Draco’s dog treats provides homemade, organic dog treats to the Richmond community.
Team
Hannah Jackson
Product Type
Dog Treats
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Brandcenter
EPICenter Studios
This project is researching the use of augmented reality as an immersive storytelling tool.
Team
Alana Wiljanen
Product Type
Physical Product, Digital Product
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
Graduate Student VCU da Vinci Master of Product Innovation Student
Gotcha Matcha
Gotcha Matcha specializes in high-quality matcha and mixed matcha beverages for people of all ages. They are seeking your thoughts to gain insights on branding and the current market here in Richmond, VA.
Team
Masrik Dahir
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
Psychology Major, Marketing Minor
House of Aromas
Loretta and her daughter started making Body Butters “With a Purpose.” They create a variety of natural products and love nothing more than sharing their passion and enthusiasm with customers. House of Aromas is a SWAM certified LLC.
Team
Loretta Simmons-Jackson and Erica Taylor
Product Type
Skincare and Candles
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni
Hope Ollivant Designs
Hope Ollivant Designs is a collection of ceramics, jewelry and art designed and fabricated by artist Hope Ollivant. These pieces are often inspired by personal journal entries and sketches to communicate a message of self expression, introspection, and the beauty of everyday experience.
Team
Hope Ollivant
Product Type
Jewelry and Ceramics
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCUarts Undergraduate Craft and Material Studies
Hyper Scooter
Inspired by electric skateboards, ChunFaye wanted to make something that is really fast. He bought an Amazon scooter and modified it to go 40+ MPH. He’s currently on the 1.2 version of his prototype.
Team
ChunFaye Wu
Product Type
Dog Treats
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Interdisciplinary Studies
Illusion
Our product is based on everyday street athleisure wear. The plan is to focus on cargo/ sweatpants with special add-ons to make them look aesthetically pleasing and help with better fitting. It is something everyone struggles with and we want to address that issue through our concept.
Team
Monica Kamshatti, Valeria Espinoza
Product Type
Physical Product, Digital Service
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU College of Engineering and Biomedical Engineering
Jacked! Jackfruit Jerky
Julien is combining his passion for sustainable food with his love of snacks by creating plant-based jerky made from jackfruit.
Team
Julien Reininger
Product Type
Food
Development Stage
Ready for market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU da Vinci Center for Innovation
Master of Product Innovation
Juni
Gerard researches and creates websites and applications for clients. He’s looking for feedback about his design ideas.
Team
Gerard Hogue
Product Type
Website/App Development
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Interdisciplinary UX/UI Pathway with minor in Psychology
Kozy Kup
Kozy Kup is a portable cup that will heat up a blanket to keep you cozy and warm.
Team
Vakirah Barbour
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business: Business Management
LipLoveLine
Ingredient-conscious lip care products to empower self-expression in the best and cleanest way possible: through the lips. No full face of makeup necessary.
Team
Briana Williams
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
Community Founder
Jackson Ward Collective Member
LushUs Kids
We are a plant-based hair care system formulated with children in mind by using organic Caribbean fruit ingredients, bringing nutrition and health to their hair when they need it most, in their youth.
Team
Cherlyn Carby
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Community Member
Macabre, Malicious, & Morbid
Studio HotPink’s 2022 art book is a collection of works centering around the Halloween/spooky theme. Through this book we’re aiming to showcase and promote student artists and alumni within the VCU & RVA community.
Team
Jordyn Flood & Bharathi Mathivanan
Product Type
Art Book
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Communication Arts
Marinel Leather
Marinel is an artisan leather brand designed and handcrafted by Isaac Wright. Whether it is an inspired custom piece, or one created to satisfy a wider but targeted demographic, Isaac is ready to sew his wild creations!
Team
Issac Wright
Product Type
Fine Leather Goods
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
Alumni VCU School of Business
Milimint
A web application capable of building real estate financial models.
Team
Masrik Dahir
Product Type
Digital Service
Development Stage
Minimum Viable Product
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU College of Engineering, Computer Science
ModiMasks
With the rise of Covid, there was an influx of synthetic fabric to make medical masks. To give these non-reusable items new life, ModiMasks created a fashionable tote bag that became an archival piece from this era.
Team
Cael Parker
Product Type
Accessories
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
Sculpture and Extended Media
Mushroom Gummies
Wyatt is exploring natural health supplements. His current prototype is in the form of gummies made with blended mushrooms, like lions mane and cordyceps. He wants to bring the healthy properties f rom these mushrooms to the supplement world through a variety of fun flavors.
Team
Wyatt Shaw
Product Type
Natural health supplements
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business
Noodlers
Peyton wants to create a toy that gives children the ability to create their own worlds. Noodlers bring children away f rom screens and into the world of their imagination. They are made f rom high quality, sustainable natural rubber, lessening the environmental impact of plastic in landfills.
Team
Peyton Spangler
Product Type
Toy
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Brandcenter
Notova
We are testing foods for our Cajun Cafe. Along with tasty grab & go options, we encourage you to try our authentic New Orleans cuisine.
Team
Chazity James
Product Type
Physical Product, Physical Service
Development Stage
Prototype
Community Member
Pollination Station
Pollination Station is a series of state-curated wildflower stations that aim to offset the decline of pollinators caused by the ‘pressures of human development.
Team
Mare Reynolds
Product Type
Product, B2B - ‘Plants & Outdoors’
Development Stage
Prototyping
Schools/Programs Represented
Graduate Student VCU da Vinci Master of Product Innovation Student
PopUp Hairstore
I’ve noticed a common trend of students in need of hair products or a hairstylist on campus. As a freshman, it is especially challenging to find transportation to the resources that we need. This is why I’ve come up with the idea of bringing the hair store to the campus.
Team
Charity Whitaker
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Business Student
3000REALM
Zaza is building a jewelry line with pieces that allow for reclamation by the wearer through the representation of marginalized genders, sexualities, races and aesthetics.
Team
Zaza Willis
Product Type
Jewelry
Development Stage
Ready for Market
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Alumni
Siera Ashleigh: Curious x Creative
The goal of my business is to use both visual and linguistic communication to inform and aid the learning and understanding of one another. I plan to do this by creating a community through a podcast, magazine, merchandise, physical game, and art journaling subscription.
Team
Siera Fountain
Product Type
Physical Product, Digital Product
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Interdisciplinary Studies
Shifters
We are an upcoming student-lead organization at VCU that works to improve the meaning of innovation and collaboration through a variety of hands-on, transferrable skills.
Team
Mariesha Little
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Just an Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Arts: Communication Arts
Sidhur Perfume
A perfume line aimed at those interested in affordable luxury and fresh unique smells.
Team
Srinija Kovvali
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Idea
Schools/Programs Represented
Finance Major
THUYA
THUYA is an all ayurvedic skincare brand which incorporates ayurvedic sciences and skincare problems that people have today to aid them in having healthier and better skin.
Team
Shwetha Rajan
Product Type
Physical Product
Development Stage
Prototype
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business
ti Boulé
ti Boulé is a vibrant Haitian-inspired hot sauce made from habanero and scotch Bonnet peppers with the aim to introduce the world to Haitian food and flavors.
Team
Zachera Kernizan
Product Type
Food
Development Stage
Prototyping
Schools/Programs Represented
Graduate Student VCU da Vinci Master of Product Innovation Student
TXT LLC
Thal is an entrepreneur and founder of the global technology company, TXT LLC, which offers social networking platform, txt, only on the Apple App Store. The app includes one of a kind features, including a global status feed enabling international friendship and connection.
Team
Thal Saleh
Product Type
Technology
Development Stage
Minimal Viable Product
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU School of Business
Unearth
A board game based on the Varginha alien sighting that teaches critical thinking. Play as a group of detectives who’ve been hired to investigate a possible alien sighting in Varginha, Brazil. It’s a race to uncover the truth before anyone else.
Team
Matthew Bennett, Eden Neifeld, Paige Bernson, Siera Fountain
Product Type
Digital Product, Digital Service
Development Stage
Proof of Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU CommArts
ZaeFace Custom Shoe Designer
Xavier loves sneakers. He paints, customizes, and restores sneakers. Help Xavier expand on their idea by leaving a suggestion and answering the survey questions.
Team
Xavier Nguyen
Product Type
Apparel
Development Stage
Concept
Schools/Programs Represented
VCU Undergraduate, Undecided
