Launching the Future of Tech | Pitch Competition Winners
In partnership with Kofound, the Orange County Government, and Innovus Innovation Center, Black Orlando Tech gave away $17,500 in funds to launch the next tech startup. The Launchpad Liftoff Pitch Competition furthers BOT’s mission to accelerate economic advancement for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the tech space. The exciting pitch competition showcased 10 incredible tech entrepreneurs and gave them the chance to present their startups to a panel of tech-forward judges.
The Launchpad Liftoff competition took place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the INNOVUS Innovation Center in Altamonte Springs, FL. Let’s meet the winners of the event.
🥇 First Place: Mason Mincey - Soarce
Mason Mincey Holding First Place check
The top prize went to Mason Mincey whose startup Soarce impressed the judges with a groundbreaking refining solution set to transform the chemical industry. Soarce uses regenerative raw materials like seaweed and transforms them into high-performing chemicals. These chemicals are used in textiles, cosmetics, and inks, reducing the consumption of water and electricity and decreasing the use of toxic ingredients. Soarce’s clear vision, strong business model, and potential for high impact secured them the first-place victory. Mason and Soarce walked away with $10,000.
🥈 Second Place: Wilfredo Lassalle Jr - Simplix
Wilfredo Lassalle Jr holding the second place check
Wilfredo Lassalle Jr. from Simplix delivered a compelling pitch for compliance and framework implementation using automatons and actionable tasks to keep you organized. Simplix is a software that makes security compliance training simple. Their innovative approach and manageable platform earned them a well-deserved second place. Simplix walked away with $5000 towards their startup.
🥉 Third Place: Nina Blankenship & Lisa Fancyfied Francoeur - Crypto Tutors
Nina Blankenship & Lisa Fancyfied Francoeur holding the third place check
Rounding out the top three, the founders of Crypto Tutors presented a unique solution for simplifying crypto and blockchain to empower marginalized communities. Crypto Tutors’ mission is to educate minorities with the goal of transforming the knowledge obtained into wealth. For capturing the attention of both the judges and the audience, the startup was awarded $2,500 towards their program.
Top 10 Participants
The night was a spectacle as tech enthusiasts gathered to see the up-and-coming tech programs. Thank you to the judges, sponsors, and guests for making the Launchpad Liftoff a complete success. Congratulations to all our participants for their hard work and inspiring pitches. The event showcased the bright future of entrepreneurship, and we look forward to seeing where these ideas go next!
The Judges
The Sponsors
Orange County Government Seal
Innovus Innovation Center logo
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