In Founder Focus we introduce entrepreneurs and innovators working on our next generation of new business startups, social enterprises and small businesses.
At a glance
Founder: David Sole
Business: SoleTech
Founded: 2020
HQ: Manawatu
Can you tell us a bit about your business?
Introducing our startup company, SoleTech, focused on solving one of the biggest challenges facing veterinarians today – dehorning adult cattle.
Our revolutionary tool is designed to make the process quick, safe, and easy for both the veterinarian and the animal.
With our innovative technology, veterinarians can dehorn adult cattle more efficiently than ever before, reducing the risk of injury and stress to both the animal and the practitioner.
Our mission is to improve animal welfare and provide a more effective solution to an ancient problem in the livestock industry.
Join us in revolutionising the way veterinarians approach dehorning adult cattle.
What’s the backstory for your business idea?
David, a veterinary student, was challenged by his professor to find a better way to dehorn adult cattle. He spent countless hours researching and prototyping a new tool that would make the process quicker, safer, and less stressful for the animal.
Inspired by his idea, David founded SoleTech, a company focused on developing and selling his innovative tool.
The tool is currently in development, but David is confident that it will revolutionise the way veterinarians approach dehorning adult cattle.
His ultimate goal is to improve animal welfare and provide better care for animals. David’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, persistence and innovation in solving archaic problems in the livestock industry.
What programmes, learning or mentoring have been of assistance so far?
I’d like to thank and mention Garth Riddle, a kiwi veterinarian and an inventor. Garth became a mentor early in the production of the dehorner, providing great insight and wisdom. He is still heavily involved with the development of the tool and is a key part of the team.
I’d also like to thank all the organisations below that helped along the way, from funding to incubators. I am very grateful for their assistance and can highly recommend checking out:
- eCentre – Massey University
- AGMARDT
- Callaghan Innovation
- CEDA
- Sprout
- The Factory
- Return On Science – Momentum
To all the startup company founders out there, remember this: “Palma Virtuti” – the reward is to the brave. Starting a business takes courage, determination, and a willingness to take risks. But with great risk comes great reward. Believe in your idea, stay focused on your goals, and don’t be afraid to take bold action.
Even in the face of setbacks and challenges, keep pushing forward. You have the power to create something truly remarkable and change the world in your own unique way. So be brave, stay strong, and keep fighting for what you believe in. Your reward awaits!
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