XELERATE'25 - Final Pitching Competition
September 2, 2025 · 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM @ Auditorium, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Ratmalana, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
Description
Event Overview The Pitching Competition of XELERATE’25 was held on 2nd September 2025, bringing together six shortlisted teams to present their entrepreneurial solutions before a distinguished judging panel. Each team delivered a five-minute pitch outlining their startup concepts, market opportunities, business models, and MVP strategies. The session provided a dynamic platform for student innovators to demonstrate their creativity, problem-solving ability, and business acumen, while receiving constructive feedback from industry experts and academics. Judges Panel The competition was evaluated by a four-member expert panel: Dr. Kalpana Ambepitiya – Senior Academic and Innovation Advocate Mr. Asel Gunawardana – Entrepreneur & Startup Mentor Mr. Ruchintha Udeeshwara – Industry Professional in Technology & Innovation Mr. Ranil Bandara – Senior Business Consultant Event Highlights Six teams presented their innovative business ideas across diverse domains: Eco Innovators (Agri Connect) – Smart greenhouse and marketplace platform for beginner farmers. Ayurodyssey – A digital gateway for authentic Ayurveda knowledge, products, and consultations. Mind Ease – An AI-driven stress and anxiety management mobile application. Team ApPoint – GPS-enabled real-time marketplace for tradesmen and mobile vendors. Lumosec (CeylonAryu) – A digital healthcare platform modernizing access to Ayurveda. Bioplastic Revolution – Seaweed-based biodegradable packaging solutions to tackle marine plastic pollution. Results & Awards 1st Place (Winner): Bioplastic Revolution – University of Moratuwa 2nd Place: Mind Ease – General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University 3rd Place: Eco Innovators – General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Tokens of appreciation were presented to the judges, followed by the awarding ceremony and a closing group photo.
Agenda
Arrival of Guests 12.50 pm Opening remarks and KDU anthem 1.00 pm A moment of silence for the war heroes 1.07 pm Lighting the oil lamp 1.08 pm Welcome speech 1.18 pm Introductory session by a speaker 1.23 pm Starting the competition 1.53 pm Announcing the End of the Competition 4.53 pm Tea break 5.03 pm Entertainment item (song) 5.15 pm Announcing the winners and the awarding ceremony 5.20 pm Token of appreciation for the judges 5.40 pm Vote of thanks 5.50 pm Closing remarks 5.55 pm