#United States #Alexandria #Pet Innovation #Purina Pet Care #VEA

VEA Takes Home the Grand Prize at Purina's Pet Care Innovation Competition

In an impressive showcase of innovation, VEA has emerged as the Grand Prize winner at the 2025 Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize competition, which took place during the Global Pet Expo, the largest pet care industry trade show in the United States. This annual event brought together five forward-thinking startups from all over the country, all vying for the coveted title and a monetary reward.

VEA's Revolutionary Approach
VEA, based in Alexandria, Virginia, offers an AI-driven intelligent veterinary exam assistant designed to enhance veterinary care. The platform is crafted to aid veterinarians in predicting diseases, formulating diagnostic plans, and improving nutritional support for pets, ultimately aiming to increase their longevity. The startup already had a head start in the competition, having previously been granted $25,000 in non-dilutive funding and mentorship from Purina’s Pet Care Innovation team and Active Capital during earlier rounds of the competition. Their triumphant pitch led them to secure an additional $25,000 cash prize, alongside expert mentorship.

Patricia Porter, CEO of VEA, expressed her gratitude, stating, "Winning the 2025 Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize is an incredible honor and deeply meaningful for VEA. Our journey started with a mission to bridge the gap in veterinary care through AI-driven innovation, and this recognition reinforces the impact we're making." She also highlighted the goal of their technology, which is to enable veterinarians to provide more efficient and compassionate care.

Other Noteworthy Competitors
While VEA was crowned the grand prize winner, the competition featured four other remarkable startups, each receiving $25,000 along with mentorship from Purina and Active Capital. The other notable finalists included:

• - Maven: A health sensor recommended by vets for continuous monitoring of pets' health, allowing for early diagnosis and treatment.
• - Ten Lives: A startup producing clean animal proteins for cats, created through microbiological processes that mimic those naturally found in prey, using human-grade precision fermentation facilities.
• - ShopDot Pet: A platform that enables local pet service businesses, like groomers and trainers, to sell pet essentials professionally without the burden of inventory costs.
• - Yak9 Chews: Focused on crafting all-natural, long-lasting cheese chews for dogs, made from ethically sourced ingredients.

Meaningful Initiatives
The Pet Care Innovation Prize is a collaboration between Purina and Active Capital that aims to empower emerging companies in the pet care space. Celebrating its ninth anniversary in 2025, the initiative has been instrumental in supporting startups that offer innovative solutions targeting pet health and wellness through products and services in technology, food, treats, and more. Purina leverages its extensive knowledge and resources in the pet care industry to foster new growth and positive impacts for pets and their owners.

Patrick Mullen, co-lead of Purina's 9 Square Ventures, remarked on VEA's potential, stating, "The panel of judges saw immense potential in the business. We are proud to be a part of VEA's growth journey and anticipate their innovative contributions in the pet care industry."

For further details on the Pet Care Innovation Prize or to learn more about Purina's initiatives supporting startups, you can visit PetCareInnovation.net.

About Purina
Nestlé Purina PetCare has been enhancing the lives of pets and their owners since 1894, delivering nutritionally sound and scientifically backed pet care products. With a commitment to pet health and welfare, Purina aims to keep pets healthy and happy by offering trusted brands like Purina ONE, Pro Plan, and Friskies, feeding millions of dogs and cats each year.

About Active Capital
Active Capital is a St. Louis-based leader in impact investing, working to connect startups with investors to cultivate innovative products and initiatives in various sectors, including pet care.

This year's competition not only highlighted the incredible innovation happening within the pet care industry but also pointed to a brighter future for veterinary medicine and pet health, as driven by companies like VEA and its fellow competitors.