Module Building Systems

Origin: Kelowna, BC | Grant Awarded: 2023 | Status: Active

What is Module Building Systems?

Module Building Systems (MBS) is at the forefront of the construction evolution, harnessing innovative post-tensioning connection technology to reshape the way buildings are constructed. Our model revolves around a meticulously manufactured, cost-effective, and expedited installation process, much like an IKEA approach, but for buildings. Targeting sectors from high-density multi-residential and single-family homes to commercial and temporary structures, MBS aims to provide pivotal solutions to North America’s pressing housing challenges. This includes addressing affordability issues, homelessness, and disaster relief efforts. Our manufacturing-centric methodology, paired with the advantage of ready-to-assemble transportable buildings, enables the swift and efficient development of affordable, sustainable communities. Moreover, our collaborative endeavors span partnerships with industry frontrunners, educational entities, non-profits, and governmental bodies, ensuring impactful solutions to the housing crisis.

Company Leadership

MARK TURNBULL

Founder & CEO

Mark Turnbull is the Founder and driving force behind MBS and has expertly assembled a dynamic executive team, board of advisors, and industry partners. With 20 years of entrepreneurial experience under his belt, Mark’s diverse background spans real estate investment, construction, land development, property management, business development, and leadership roles as a marketing and creative director.

A dedicated humanitarian, Mark’s compassionate nature is at the heart of MBS’s mission. He has devoted time to volunteering at local homeless shelters, making multiple trips to Haiti to help build schools, homes, and orphanages. His vision and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact shape the way MBS operates and grows.

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Pana Mina

Origin: Jaipur, India |

Grant Awarded: 2023 | Status: Active

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What is Pana Mina?

“”We Make Clothing Personal”
Pana Mina is a made-to-order clothing startup at the intersection of sustainability and size-inclusivity. Pana Mina uses natural, eco-friendly fabrics to make custom-sized garments, encouraging customers to embrace their individuality and use their unique body measurements, rather than restrictive standard sizes, to purchase clothing online.

Company Leadership

ELEANOR SWANSTROM

Co-Founder

Eleanore was first exposed to the fashion industry when she modeled for St. Louis Fashion Week as a teenager. She later graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Marketing degree, and then worked for a marketing agency in Minneapolis serving apparel brands like Calvin Klein and Lane Bryant. In 2019, Eleanore traveled through India and met her partner and fellow Co-Founder, Jay. She then spent 3 years living in Jay’s vibrant hometown: Jaipur, India. Eleanore’s apparel marketing expertise and international experience prepared her to co-found Pana Mina, and bring sustainable, size-inclusive clothing to a global audience.

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dhananjay sharma

Co-founder

Dhananjay grew up in Jaipur, India, an international hub for apparel production. His local connections, combined with his efficient and detail-oriented work style, allow him to vet production facilities, evaluate fabric options, and ensure products meet the highest quality standards.

Dhananjay’s motto, “Sab Kuch Milega” – meaning “Everything is Possible” in Hindi – reflects his can-do attitude and optimism that any manufacturing or logistics challenge can be solved through the right local partners and processes. He helps Pana Mina navigate the complexities of apparel production in India, and realize the vision of sustainable clothing for all.

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Seed Matriz

Origin: Rio Cuarto, Argentina |

Grant Awarded: 2023 | Status: Active

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What is Seed Matriz?

Seed Matriz is an agtech startup born in Argentina, looking to solve the main problems farmers and seed companies are facing and boost the plant by plant agronomy. The encapsulation technology developed improve shape and size of seeds, having the possibility to add biostimulants and other products to improve the first stages of the crops growth, enhancing final yields while reducing the agronomic inputs.
The encapsulation also allow seeds to be detected underground during planting process, having in real time the depth and distance of seeds with furrow closed. This information is necessary to have complete control of the planting process and also as an information layer for digital agriculture.
Another feature we are developing is to enhance the natural signs that plants show when they are suffering any kind of stress. With this will be possible to detect plant by plant, with hyperspectral cameras on drones or satellites, the health status of the crop, having early and accurate information. Having this information will be possible to solve any issue using less products and minimizing applications.

Company Leadership

FEDERICO COLA

FOUNDER & CEO

Federico Cola is an Agricultural Engineer, farmer, founder and Director of several companies in the field of bioethanol, biogas, clean energy and others. Former rally motorcycle racer, he participated in the Dakar competition. Federico never give up, he always find the way to solve any obstacle or make a success from any project. A great team builder, inspiring and empowering others to get involved in challenging goals. The word entrepreneur describes him perfectly.

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JUAN COLA

Co-founder & DIRECTOR

Juan is a veterinarian and runs a beef company. He is also a partner in other startups and a Board Director for some companies.

WALTER SANSONE

Co-Founder & MANAGER

ALVARO FERNàNDEZ

Co-founder & COO

We Hear You

Origin: Peoria, IL |

Grant Awarded: 2023 | Status: Active

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What is We Hear You?

We Hear You® is a startup company that creates accessible technology for those who are often not placed at the forefront of innovation. We Hear You® is currently working on two inventions that are focused on inclusivity and accessibility. The first is a two-way sign language translation software that is able to translate ASL through hand recognition and then translate speech to ASL. The second invention, Push™ , is a revolutionary solution for transforming ADA doors into automatic doors. With a simple press of a personal button, individuals with mobility exceptionalities can easily access public spaces, improving their independence and ease of mobility. This device is versatile; it can be worn as a wristband, attached to a wheelchair, or clipped to a keychain. The low-cost assistive devices empower businesses to accommodate their customers, ensuring a more accessible and inclusive environment. By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion as the foundation of innovation, We Hear You® strives to create a world where everyone can navigate their everyday lives with ease and dignity.

Company Leadership

Pierre Paul

FOUNDER & CEO

Pierre Paul was born in Brazil, grew up shortly in Guyana, and then landed in Ohio. At a young age, he faced extreme poverty, xenophobia and racism for simply being different. Armed with these experiences, he grew up with an unwavering determination to ensure that others who fell outside the “status quo” did not feel unwelcome in the world. Motivated by a vision for change and a burning desire to address the concerns of individuals whose voices often go unheard, Pierre embarked on a mission to establish We Hear You®.

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BETHANY COURI

Co-founder

Bethany is a young, driven Ed.D. student and professional. She works at Bradley University overseeing campus Residential Living. In addition, she serves as the Chief Operating Officer for We Hear You, LLC to ensure that we as a society are proactive with inclusivity and accessibility instead of being reactive to others’ needs.

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