Young Entrepreneurs Shine on the International Stage at European Competition

Following months of hard work and development, Loughborough College-based entrepreneurs Therma Tread Elite wowed judges at the annual Gen E Expo, earning an impressive first runner up award for their unique start-up.

Led by Higher Education students Tyler Harding, Max Jefferies, and Tom Doar, Therma Tread Elite showcased their revolutionary product, designed to reduce foot and ankle injuries in sports.

Hosted in Catania, Italy, the team beat out over seventy impressive competitors from across Europe, confirming Loughborough College’s place in the future of sports innovation, following in the footsteps of last year’s Innovation winners, Tiaki.

The team were supported by Start Up Strategic Lead for the Young Enterprise UK programme, Suzanne Lockwood, and Teaching Learning Assistant at Loughborough College, Iqbal Ullah, who shared, “There’s something special about witnessing the brilliance of the next generation of creators, problem solvers, leaders, and disruptors at the Gen E Expo. The College’s team were brilliant throughout, securing the 1st Runner Up award for Start-Up of the Year in a field of outstandingly innovative university level competitors.”

Suzanne agreed, adding, “Tom, Tyler, and Max, three determined and competitive young men who showed up and delivered all week long. It was absolutely incredible, well done to all the students who took part!”

The Gen E Expo is hosted by Junior Achievers Europe, and celebrates the work of thousands of young entrepreneurs across the continent. The Start Up of the Year Award highlights the outstanding accomplishments of student-led businesses who have demonstrated unparalleled innovation, and remarkable potential for future investors.