VEA, an AI-powered veterinary exam assistant, has been named the grand prize winner of the 2025 Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize after a pitch competition at Global Pet Expo. The Alexandria, Virginia-based startup uses AI to help veterinarians predict disease, generate diagnostic plans and support nutrition for longevity.
"Winning the 2025 Purina Pet Care Innovation Prize is an incredible honor and deeply meaningful for VEA," said Patricia Porter, VEA CEO. "Our journey started with a mission to bridge the gap in veterinary care through AI-driven innovation, and this recognition reinforces the impact we're making."
VEA received $25,000 in non-dilutive funding and mentorship from Purina's 9 Square Ventures and Active Capital in the competition's first round. By securing the grand prize, the company earned an additional $25,000.
Four other startups also received $25,000, mentorship and a spot in an accelerator boot camp at Purina's headquarters in St. Louis, Missosuri:
- Maven, New York, New York – A vet-recommended health sensor that continuously monitors pets for early health changes.
- Ten Lives, San Francisco, California – Produces fermentation-based proteins for cat food, replicating natural prey proteins without animal farming.
- ShopDot Pet, Missoula, Montana – A platform that enables pet service providers to sell essentials without managing inventory or shipping.
- Yak9 Chews, Austin, Texas – Specializes in all-natural cheese chews for dogs, made from ethically sourced ingredients.
"The panel of judges saw immense potential in VEA," said Patrick Mullen, co-lead of Purina's 9 Square Ventures group. "We are proud to be a part of VEA's growth journey and look forward to seeing the many ways each of our incredible finalists will continue to grow, innovate, and make their mark on the pet care industry."
Now in its ninth year, the Pet Care Innovation Prize supports early-stage startups developing new solutions in pet health, wellness, technology and nutrition. Through 9 Square Ventures, Purina provides financial support, mentorship and access to industry expertise to help emerging pet care businesses scale.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, Nestlé Purina PetCare offers pet care products, including Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Friskies and Tidy Cats. Founded in 1894, Purina also operates pet food factories in 19 countries and has over 11,000 employees, including 500 scientists. The company claims three headquarters globally: St. Louis, Missouri, U.S., for its North American and Latin American operations; Lausanne, Switzerland, in Europe; and Sydney, Australia, covering Asia, Oceania and Africa. Its parent company, Nestlé's world headquarters, is in Vevey, Switzerland.
Adapted from a press release.
