Full Breakdown
Entrepreneurs Compete for Investment on "Meet the Drapers" in Salt Lake City
3/21/2026, 6:03:28 PM
Live Pitch Event at the University of Utah
On a recent Friday, a group of entrepreneurs presented their business ideas to a panel of venture capitalists during a live recording of "Meet the Drapers" at the University of Utah. Created by Silicon Valley venture capitalist Tim Draper, the show follows a "Shark Tank" format, allowing entrepreneurs to compete for investments while providing insights into what investors seek in promising startups. This particular episode featured five entrepreneurs, four of whom have connections to the University of Utah.
Featured Entrepreneurs and Their Innovations
Among the participants was Kristina Schiffman, an undergraduate who pitched her startup, UV Sense. This wearable device, paired with a smartphone app, helps users monitor their UV exposure, aiming to prevent sunburn—a significant concern in Utah, which has the highest melanoma rates in the United States. Schiffman emphasized the importance of her product, stating, "The main cause of skin cancer is sunburn. We're intervening before a sunburn occurs."
Other entrepreneurs included Victor Gill, CEO of Trace Air Quality; Elizabeth Jeffrey, founder of Breath of Life; Josh Litwack, founder of Quantizr; and Val Emanuel, co-founder and CEO of Rif Care. Emanuel's company, Rif Care, specializes in menstrual products made from upcycled hemp fiber, aiming to provide premium and accessible options. Emanuel shared her motivation for starting the business, which stemmed from personal health challenges.
Competition Outcome and Future Prospects
After a series of pitches and deliberations, Draper announced that Rif Care was the winner of this episode, allowing Emanuel and her team to advance to the semifinals. The ultimate winner of the competition will receive a $1 million investment, which Emanuel noted could significantly expand their impact, stating, "If we raise $600,000, we'd be able to help 20,000 women... with a million dollars... help a million women."
Tim Draper's Commitment to Utah's Entrepreneurial Scene
Tim Draper expressed his enthusiasm for the entrepreneurial spirit in Utah, stating, "Entrepreneurship here is just thriving." His involvement in the state includes launching Wasatch Global Investors, Utah's first venture fund, and sponsoring the annual Utah Entrepreneur Challenge, which awards $75,000 in prizes to student business teams.
Official Statements & Responses
Draper highlighted the importance of platforms like "Meet the Drapers" in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Utah. Emanuel expressed hope that the exposure from the show would increase visibility for Rif Care, which is currently available in 400 stores across the U.S.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The main cause of skin cancer is sunburn. We're intervening before a sunburn occurs,” — Kristina Schiffman, Founder of UV Sense
- “One million (dollars) would be life-changing for us,” — Val Emanuel, Co-founder of Rif Care
This event not only showcased innovative ideas but also underscored the growing entrepreneurial landscape in Utah, with hopes for future success among the participating startups.
