Wata Watcha device set to Accelerate

A device that instantly detects household water leaks, called Wata Watcha, is just one of the innovative projects being supported through Curtin’s newly redesigned Accelerate program, which is now underway.

The program is an opportunity for Curtin University alumni, students, and staff to transform their clever products or service into thriving businesses while honing their entrepreneurial skills.

Procuracon founder Cuong Ly and co-founder Andrew McColgan have developed a web app. It improves the procurement process for construction, making it easier for developers, land and building owners and government agencies to find suitably qualified suppliers.

“We identified a critical need to improve the construction marketplace. We developed technology that offers a unique solution that supercharges the procurement process on construction projects,” Ly said.

“Too much time and money is wasted on outdated and fragmented procurement processes, we’ve experienced it repeatedly – and it needs to change.

“Our search algorithms and intuitive procurement UX design are far more engaging. That makes it easy for clients to instantly find, evaluate and shortlist suppliers. The platform gives clients access to all the meaningful data needed to make informed business decisions when building teams for their projects and managing risk.”

Wata Watcha and Tanya Berryman

Wata Watcha founder Tamara Berryman said household leaks were common and often went unnoticed for months. They cause damage and cost money while wasting thousands of litres of water.

“Nearly 60 per cent of Australians have, or know someone who has experienced water damage. It is more common and costly than fire or burglary,” Berryman said.

“It occurred to me that if we have security systems and smoke detectors, why don’t we have something to detect water leaks?”

Able to be attached to a household water meter, the Wata Watcha device is easy to install, gives access to real-time water usage data and instantly detects household water leaks.

“The Wata Watcha uses long-range Wi-Fi to send water usage data to a bridge networking device. It connects with and uploads the data to our website, where users can access it,” Berryman said.

“This allows people to monitor their water usage in real-time easily. It can help them save on water bills and avoid costly repairs for damage caused by leaks. It also helps prevent the wastage of precious, finite water resource.

“We developed and successfully tested a prototype device and have met with Water Corporation WA. They see the potential for the product and are interested in collaborating with us.

“The Accelerate program presents a great opportunity for our team to gain access to commercialisation experts, investors, potential partners and other invaluable support.”

The Accelerate Program at Curtin University

Curtin Entrepreneurs Programs Manager Dr Geremy Farr-Wharton is an expert in consumer behaviour, information design and ecological sustainability and leads the Accelerate Program. Participants have access to Curtin resources, infrastructure, and services to build their businesses. They contribute to Curtin’s commitment to becoming a world leader in translating research outcomes to exciting new products, services and industrial processes.

The 2023 Accelerate cohort has access to a combined total of $100,000 in equity-free funding. It has been supported in part by Lotterywest through Spacecubed’s IdeaStarter fund.

Other projects that received funding

Other projects being undertaken by teams participating in the 2023 Accelerate program are:

Care Corner – a digital platform that provides peace of mind for carers and keeps track of data to inform health care decisions.

Heal Domain – provides the missing piece in the puzzle of chronic pain management. It will empower practitioners and patients to reimagine the patient experience and create better healthcare outcomes.

STEM XR – capitalises on the immersive potential of virtual and related immersive realities technology. These technologies will create a robust and scalable way of connecting Western Australian and Australian students to relevant STEM experiences.

Matilda – an evidence-based digital platform providing holistic care for those with endometriosis from the comfort of their own home.

Luddi – develops assistive technologies for people living with a disability that they can be proud of. It will include the world’s first sex toy that caters to all bodies.

Insole Lab – a health-tech startup that harnesses artificial intelligence to make custom shoe insoles more affordable and accessible.

Speed Signature – a disruptive SaaS technology founded by former Wallabies strength and conditioning coach Jason Weber. It could revolutionise how athletes are managed in sport via the analysis of individual movement biomechanics.

RockAI – delivers highly accurate, intelligent orebody and rock mass characterisation in real time. It enhances mining models to reduce waste and enable greater recovery of critical minerals.