The Pitch Kitchener program will provide opportunities to better engage with startups and vendors to propose creative ways to improve city service delivery.   

On this page:

About the program 

Through the Pitch Kitchener program, we want to provide the opportunity for vendors and start-ups to pitch new and innovative solutions to improve city service delivery. With $100,000 in funding available, the city is seeking proposals that offer innovative solutions to meet specific city challenges. We are partnering with Communitech’s Fast Track Cities program, which connects Canadian tech founders with municipal and enterprise partners to address pressing challenges.

All vendors and start-ups are eligible to submit proposals to the specific challenges the city has identified below. 

Each pitch will be evaluated based on criteria such as creativity, resources required and feasibility of pitch.  

Requirements for each challenge are detailed on our Bids and Tenders website. 

City challenges seeking proposals  

Challenge: Inspection of larger sanitary trunk sewer systems 

Our Sanitary and Storm Utility division needs accurate reports for inspecting large sanitary trunk sewer systems. High flows and limited accessibility make clear CCTV footage difficult. Enhanced equipment will improve inspection precision and maintenance.

Read more about this challenge

Challenge: Autonomous technology to improve service delivery 

We are looking for opportunities to improve efficiency and enhance service delivery across our municipal service areas.   

The goal is to pilot autonomous solutions to improve City services, such as grass cutting, inspections, equipment maintenance, and customer service, allowing staff to focus more on customer experience while maintaining staff levels.
Read more about this challenge

How to pitch an idea 

Visit our Bids and Tenders website for more information on how to submit a pitch. You can also visit the Communitech website for more information on challenges and how to apply.

There is no cost to start-ups/vendors to pitch an idea.  

Proposals are open from September 12 – October 3, 2024.  All correspondence with vendors will be done through the Communitech system. 

Timelines

  • Pitches can be submitted between Sept. 12 and Oct. 3, 2024
  • Pitches will be evaluated between Oct. 7 – 18 
  • Pitches selected to move on will be notified on Oct. 25
  • Communitech will support and coach vendors as they prepare for their in-person pitch at the Solutions Showcase. 

Each pitch will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined. The City will create a shortlist of preferred pitches and those vendors will be asked to pitch their solution to City staff at an in-person Solutions Showcase on Nov. 21.