By Tim Ryan

On September 11th, Hampton Roads’ innovation scene was buzzing as Start Peninsula hosted its third Micro Pitch competition of the year. Entrepreneurs from across the region presented their best ideas in quick, 90-second pitches, competing for a $500 cash prize and a chance to advance to the highly anticipated Championship Pitch on November 6th.

Held online from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, the event brought together a diverse group of startups eager to make their mark. Each participant showcased the talent and ingenuity that has come to define Hampton Roads’ entrepreneurial ecosystem. This time around, three innovative ideas rose to the top:

  • B & C’s Gloves: A 2-in-1 glove and fish scaler that offers a faster, safer way to descale fish while protecting against fish handler’s disease.
  • Seed Sisters: Nutritious bars designed for women to manage hormonal imbalances through seed cycling, using all-natural ingredients for a convenient and holistic solution.
  • Style Magnet: A web-based platform that curates outfits from multiple retailers, simplifying online shopping with personalized recommendations based on body shape, style, and measurements.

These entrepreneurs impressed a panel of judges, each bringing their unique expertise to the table:

  • Chris Davidson, founder of Orca Strategies LLC, known for his deep ties to the region’s startup community and mentorship in business growth.
  • Himalaya Rao-Potlapally, co-founder of Black Founders Matter, who emphasized the importance of equitable access to capital and investment.
  • Carlton M. Campbell, founder of Heart and Mind Transformations, whose insights on balancing technology with personal development offered valuable guidance for the participants.

As Start Peninsula looks ahead to the Championship Pitch event, the momentum from this competition continues to build. Hosted by Newport News in collaboration with Hampton, Williamsburg, Poquoson, and surrounding counties, Start Peninsula is not just a competition—it’s a platform for local entrepreneurs to gain exposure, mentorship, and resources that can propel their businesses forward.

Past Micro Pitch winners have gone on to achieve impressive milestones, and this year’s participants are poised to follow suit. On November 6th, the stakes will rise as winners from all 2024 Micro Pitch events compete for the grand prize of $5,000.

To learn more about Start Peninsula and get involved in upcoming events, visit www.StartPeninsula.com.