Local real estate startup Shack Homes wins innovation pitch competition

Sarnia-Lambton technology startup focused on changing how homes are sold has won a major regional entrepreneurship competition, signalling growing momentum for the company heading into 2026. Shack Homes took first […]

Sarnia-Lambton technology startup focused on changing how homes are sold has won a major regional entrepreneurship competition, signalling growing momentum for the company heading into 2026.

Shack Homes took first place at the TechAlliance of Southwestern Ontario Polaris Pitch Contest, competing against a slate of finalists developing innovations in fields ranging from health technology to accessibility and environmental solutions.

Liwordson Vijayabalan presented the company’s vision for a platform designed to reduce the cost of selling homes by giving homeowners greater control over the process while still accessing key market exposure tools.

The Polaris Pitch Contest is hosted by TechAlliance, a regional innovation hub supporting technology entrepreneurs across Southwestern Ontario. Finalists were evaluated by a panel of industry leaders, including entrepreneur and investor Michele Romanow.

The win places Shack Homes among emerging ventures in the region viewed as having high growth potential, while also providing access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and visibility within Ontario’s startup ecosystem.

Shack Homes has already drawn attention locally for introducing alternative home-selling options to the Sarnia-Lambton market. The company’s model aims to save sellers thousands of dollars in commission costs by allowing them to manage significant portions of the sales process themselves.

The company plans to expand its presence in the real estate sector over the coming year, with additional announcements expected in 2026.