When Parisa Agahi watched her mother struggle with varicose veins, it was clear that the solution she was using—medical compression stockings—was only solving part of the problem.

“They were uncomfortable, ugly, and impossible to wear with anything stylish,” she says. “It felt like women were being punished for taking care of their health.”

Parisa knew that if her mom felt this way, other women probably did too. That insight sparked a question that would eventually launch a business: Why weren’t compression garments designed with real women in mind?

After speaking with hundreds of women who shared similar frustrations, Parisa began to envision something new. What if compression apparel could actually look good and feel good, while still supporting medical needs?

That vision became Tression, a compression apparel company focused on combining style, comfort, and medical-grade functionality. Designed by women, for women, Tression is reimagining what compression wear can be.

Science meets style: A founder’s story stitched with purpose

Parisa didn’t come at this problem as an outsider. She has a strong background in biomedical innovation, having worked in the commercialization space with a particular interest in wearables and medical devices. She also studied intellectual property and health sciences at McMaster University, giving her the tools to evaluate ideas not just through a scientific lens, but a strategic one.

“This wasn’t just a business idea. It was personal. I saw a space where a solution technically existed, but no one had done it right,” she says.

Instead of jumping straight into product development, she took the time to listen. She hosted focus groups, gathered real user feedback, and tested countless materials. The result is a product line that blends body-conscious design with the science of compression—bringing relief to users without sacrificing comfort or confidence.

Tression's garments are made to support, move with the body, and align with modern wardrobes. The goal is simple: to create products women actually want to wear, not ones they tolerate out of necessity.

Owning the edge: Why IP mattered from day one

With a physical product that incorporates both unique functionality and brand identity, Parisa knew that protecting her idea was essential. From the earliest stages, she began building an intellectual property strategy around Tression’s designs, features, and branding.

“I knew from experience that protecting your work early is essential, especially when you’re creating something physical and innovative,” she says.

Parisa planned to file both a provisional patent for Tression’s product innovation and a trademark to secure her branding as the company grew. However, like many early-stage founders, she was juggling limited resources.

“We didn’t have extra money for legal support. IP was critical, but difficult to afford at that point,” she says.

ElevateIP provided the support to move forward

When Parisa heard about ElevateIP, she immediately saw the opportunity.

“I already knew what I wanted to protect. ElevateIP gave me the ability to do it,” she says.

Through the program, Tression received support to file a provisional patent and register its trademark. The cost coverage—up to 100 percent—meant Parisa could finally move forward with her filings without diverting funds from product development, testing, or branding work.

Beyond funding, ElevateIP also provided valuable educational components. Parisa learned more about copyright protections and trade secrets, which she has since applied to broader areas of her business planning.

“I learned things that will serve me long after the filings are done. It gave me a stronger foundation to build from,” she says.

The result is a more secure, future-ready business—one that has safeguarded its innovation from the start.

A message for other founders: Don’t wait to protect what matters

Parisa understands that IP can feel intimidating, especially for founders without a background in science or law. But she believes that’s exactly why programs like ElevateIP are so important.

“You shouldn’t have to be an IP expert to protect your company,” she says. “ElevateIP makes it possible to take action without draining your resources.”

She now recommends the program to every startup founder she meets—particularly those creating physical products or building brand-forward businesses. For her, it’s not just about protection. It’s about legitimacy, confidence, and setting a business up for long-term success.

“Even if you’re small or early in your journey, if you’ve built something unique, protect it. Your future self will be glad you did.”

What’s next: A new kind of compression wear is on the way

After three years of research, development, and real-world testing, Tression is preparing for its official launch. Products are now in production, and the final designs have been shaped by conversations with real users—women who understand firsthand what works and what doesn’t. That includes Parisa’s mother, who now proudly serves as her most trusted product tester.

The result is a line of compression garments that provide support, comfort, and style in equal measure. They are designed not just to treat symptoms, but to empower wearers and help them move confidently through the world.

And thanks to ElevateIP, Tression’s innovation—and its future—are protected.