Salva Health emerged as the winner of the Startup Battlefield at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 after three days of intense pitching and competition. The event featured 20 hand-picked startups, with Salva Health ultimately taking home the coveted Startup Battlefield Cup and $100,000.
The winning startup, Salva Health, was founded by Valentina Agudelo, who identified a gap in breast cancer survival rates in Latin America compared to the developed world. The company created a portable device aimed at detecting breast cancer early, especially in rural areas where access to diagnostic tools is limited.
Runner-up Gecko Materials showcased their innovative super-strong dry-adhesive, inspired by the gripping abilities of geckos’ feet. The adhesive can hold objects securely without leaving any residue and can detach and reattach multiple times, making it a versatile and unique product in the market.
These two startups join the ranks of past Startup Battlefield legends like Dropbox, Discord, Cloudflare, and Mint, demonstrating the potential for success and growth for participants in the program. With over 1,500 alumni from the Startup Battlefield program collectively raising over $29 billion in funding, the event continues to be a launching pad for innovative startups looking to make their mark in the tech industry.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 has showcased the future of technology and entrepreneurship, with a focus on groundbreaking ideas and solutions that have the potential to impact industries and communities worldwide. The event brought together a diverse range of speakers, startups, and attendees, highlighting the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving progress and success in the tech sector.
As the Startup Battlefield winner, Salva Health has the opportunity to further develop and scale their early breast cancer detection device, potentially saving lives and making a significant impact on healthcare in underserved communities. The recognition and support received at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 will undoubtedly propel Salva Health and Gecko Materials towards future success and growth in the competitive tech landscape.
