Grant: Engage Grants Program

Stomp Labs is a Cape Breton company involved in the creation of guitar effects pedals. The creation of effects pedals involves the use of sophisticated electronics in order to produce the sounds needed, and pedals are limited in the types of sounds that they can produce. This results in multiple pedals needed to produce the various sounds that may be required for a musical performance. Stomp Labs, with expertise from Acadia University's Jodrey School of Computer Science, would like to develop guitar effects software for mobile devices, allowing users to use their mobile phone or tablet computer as an effect pedal and portable amplifier. Using software to produce the guitar effects reduces the need for musicians to carry around multiple guitar pedals. Taking advantage of the speakers of the mobile device also reduces the need to carry around an amplifier for individual practice. By combining the effects pedals and amplifier into one device, musicians can practice anywhere at anytime. For stage performances, the musicians will be able to redirect the output of the mobile phone or tablet to a proper sound system, allowing the device to become their main effects pedal. If the musician wishes to revert to traditional pedals for performances, they will be able to purchase the traditional pedals with matching sounds from Stomp Labs. Stomp Labs has the experience and technology required to build the guitar pedals, but does not have the experience or expertise to build the application. The Jodrey School of Computer Science can provide that experience and expertise. Stomp Labs believes the export potential of this product will be significant.