The idea behind SteerBudd was born from a practical need: making driving practice sessions outside driving school more structured and effective. “My experiences practising with friends and family were anything but productive,” says Gioele Cavallo. “That led me to develop an app designed to guide learner drivers through routes adapted to their experience level, while also supporting the accompanying person with useful instructions.”
After earning a Federal VET Diploma (AFC) in Information Technology from the Trevano Vocational School, Cavallo chose to continue his studies in the Bachelor of Science in Engineering and Management at SUPSI’s Department of Innovative Technologies. “I wanted a programme that would allow me to develop management skills applicable across different industrial sectors,” he explains.
His connection with the Startup Garage began almost by chance during in 2023, only a few months after starting university. “I was curious about the environment and immediately saw the opportunity to pitch an idea. Even though my first project did not move forward, it motivated me to create something of my own.”
Following an initial experience with the PawsPulse team, finalist at TalentPitch Switzerland 2025, Gioele presented SteerBudd, identifying the Startup Garage as the ideal environment to develop entrepreneurial skills and independence within an informal and multidisciplinary setting. “It is a place where you constantly receive new input, meet experts and can turn an idea into something concrete.”
The development of SteerBudd also involved SUPSI lecturers, driving instructors and traffic experts, whose complementary perspectives helped refine the project. The app is currently being developed with the support of students from the College of Higher Education for Business Administration, Management Information Systems section.
“Taking part in Red Bull Basement was an incredible experience,” says Gioele. “You find yourself surrounded by creative people and a unique energy. Every conversation brings new ideas and different perspectives. It is definitely an experience I hope to repeat in the future.”
In the coming months, Gioele will complete his Bachelor in Engineering and Management and plans to continue with language training in German-speaking Switzerland to strengthen his German skills, while at the same time continuing the development of SteerBudd, with the goal of bringing the project to its first concrete implementation by 2027.