By Tim Ryan
Innovate Hampton Roads is thrilled to celebrate the winners of the 2024 Start Peninsula Championship Pitch event! Congratulations to Crystal Lugo of B&C’s Gloves, Walt Smithers of Romulus Media, and Torrey C. Butler of Scribble, who each walked away with a $5,000 prize and the pride of being named champions of innovation in Hampton Roads.
On November 6th, the virtual stage was set for one of the most exciting entrepreneurial events of the year. Twelve startups, each presenting their bold ideas, competed for top honors. After much deliberation, B&C’s Gloves, Romulus Media, and Scribble were crowned the champions. Crystal, Walt, and Torrey’s inspiring journeys represent exactly what Innovate Hampton Roads is all about—bringing transformative ideas to life.
The other participating startups also had much to celebrate, receiving $500 each and gaining access to 757 Collab‘s resources, including their Capital Readiness Program. This invaluable support will provide these bright minds with the tools, mentorship, and network they need to take their startups to the next level.
The evening featured an engaging keynote conversation with Tahjere Lewis, founder of Aunt Carol’s Sauce and a 2022 Start Peninsula winner. Tahjere’s story of success is a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the impact of community support, hard work, and innovation.
The judging panel was filled with expertise from all corners of the startup world: Rachel Wilson of BFM Fund, Sabrina Hammell of 757 Collab, Carlton Campbell, serial entrepreneur, Steve Dubois, Managing Partner of PPB Law, and Gary Grenter of Virginia ICAP. Their insights and feedback not only helped select the winners but also offered meaningful guidance to all participants.
Innovate Hampton Roads remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant ecosystem where startups can thrive. With applications now open for Start Peninsula 2025, we’re excited to continue this journey of supporting innovators, dreamers, and builders. If you have an idea that could change the world, we want to hear from you!
Together, let’s create an even more innovative and inclusive future for Hampton Roads!
