The [RE]verse Pitch Competition, through a series of events and innovation prizes, inspires social entrepreneurs in Austin, Texas to help solve local zero waste challenges.

Entrepreneurs are used to pitching their business idea to investors, partners, and anyone they might share an elevator ride with. In this competition, the tables will turn. The [RE]verse Pitch Competition is a social innovation program to help turn valuable raw materials that are currently leaving local businesses, non-profits, and institutions as waste into the foundation of new social enterprises. Materials leaving these organizations and entering the waste stream is the problem we're trying to solve and we're pitching to you, the social entrepreneurs of Austin, to help create a solution!

Competitors work with mentors & advisors to develop repurposing business ideas and compete for Innovation Prizes to help start this new venture.

The City of Austin's [RE]verse Pitch Competition was exclusively for Austin residents. Participants received a password at the launch event, which was required to complete their registration on the HeroX platform. This in-person event also showcased available materials for potential solutions. HeroX hosted four iterations of this competition from 2016 to 2020.

Two teams were selected as the winners:

1. Aadhikesh Boopalam’s team submission: Terra Helmets
   1. Shareable helmets made of byproduct materials that can collapse and attach to e-scooters and bikes to increase rider safety.
2. Samantha Panger's team submission: LoFi Recycling Systems
   1. LoFi aims to turn a waste stream into useful home decor and connect people to the natural world through indoor gardening.