EasZotic Wins Start-up BW Pitch with Foot Wellness Innovation EasZer

Nine teams competed in the Start-up BW Elevator Pitch – North Black Forest Regional Cup in Pforzheim on March 17, 2026. The event, part of the long-running Start-up BW campaign, gives entrepreneurs a chance to present their business ideas in a fast-paced pitch format. Jakob and Elisabeth Tillery of EasZotic GmbH took first place with their wellness innovation, the EasZer.

The competition has been held annually since 2013 as a key feature of Baden-Württemberg's Start-up BW initiative. Regional rounds act as qualifiers, with winners progressing to the state finals. This year's North Black Forest Regional Cup saw nine teams pitch their concepts to a panel of judges.

The winning idea came from EasZotic GmbH, founded by Jakob and Elisabeth Tillery. Their product, the EasZer, is a fitness and wellness device designed to stretch, strengthen, and relax the feet automatically during daily movement. The judges selected their pitch as the standout entry. Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism, highlighted the event's role in supporting new businesses. She noted that the competition provides a valuable platform for founders to present their ideas and gain visibility. To qualify for the state finals, participants must be at least 18, have a business concept no older than five years, and be based in Baden-Württemberg. The Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism continues to seek fresh business ideas for the 2025/26 cycle. While details of future regional rounds remain unconfirmed, the state finals will feature the most promising start-ups from across the region.

The Tillerys will now advance to the state finals, where they will compete against other regional winners. Their EasZer device aims to address foot health through automated stretching and strengthening. The competition remains a key opportunity for Baden-Württemberg's entrepreneurs to gain recognition and support.