Elliot Rose was just 17 when his life was upended by health challenges that require regular dialysis. “You’re a normal person living a normal life and suddenly everything changes,” says the Bachelor of Commerce ’19 alum.

Being awoken for bloodwork one night during a hospital stay, Rose had what he calls an “aha!” moment. “I thought “If my sleeve had a zipper, the medical professionals would have access for bloodwork while I could continue to sleep,”” he says.  

Once discharged, Rose turned his idea into action. He had tailored zippers added across athleisure garments in high-traffic areas, allowing for a dignified experience for both patients and professionals. Wearing it to dialysis was transformative, he recalls: “For the first time, I felt in control of my own health.” 

Leaning on his business education, Rose refined his concept. Feedback from peers and entrepreneurs confirmed its potential, leading to the launch of Visitor Recovery Wear. 

Rose isn’t the only one who believes in Visitor. He recently won the pitch competition as part of MacEwan’s RBC Foundation Ventures program. The eight-week program consists of hands-on workshops, networking and close guidance from Tristan Ham, Manager of MacEwan Ventures and an entrepreneur. 

“Tristan helped us package and advance our concepts, preparing us for the next stage,” says Rose. 

That preparation paid off when Rose won the program’s pitch competition, securing funding he used for advertising and inventory. 

Beyond the grant and accolades, Rose credits the program with something more enduring. “They gave me structure – a foundation to build upon and guidance to navigate the difficult path ahead,” he says.

The MacEwan Ventures program is just one way that students at MacEwan are supported to succeed in an ever-changing landscape, according to Rose. “Expanding the School of Business and providing more access to unique programs and services like MacEwan Ventures is a game-changer,” he says. “Initiatives like this give students real-world experience and the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills so that they’re prepared to excel and make meaningful contributions in their careers.”