TEDCO’s Expo will offer a chance for student entrepreneurs to pitch their innovations and receive live feedback from experts
COLUMBIA, Md., (October 21, 2024) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces the electrifying “Emerge DMV HBCU Pitch Competition and Showcase” set to take place at the upcoming 2024 Entrepreneur Expo at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel on December 4, 2024.
“We are thrilled to provide a platform for HBCU students to shine," said Shannon Collins, co-founder of Lightwork Enterprise. "This event is not just about competition; it’s about fostering innovation and supporting the next wave of tech leaders who will make a significant impact in our communities.”
The dynamic showcase will feature several innovative students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in the Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland region as they pitch their solutions and compete for the title of 2024 Emerge HBCU Innovator of the Year, along with a prize that will support their company’s progress. The first place winner of the competition will be awarded $5,000, the second place winner will receive $1,500 and for third place the winner will get $500.
Himalaya Rao, managing director of the BFM Fund, emphasized the importance of this initiative: "We fundamentally believe that entrepreneurship can be a successful pathway to economic development and economic empowerment -- especially for communities of color. We built this initiative to support the spirit of genius and innovation that is so present across the HBCU ecosystem. Our goal is to facilitate the next generation of inventors and leaders who will solve the most pressing challenges of our future."
TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo is a platform for entrepreneurs, business owners, angel and venture capital investors, legislators and influencers to connect, learn and be inspired. Attendees can expect a full day of engaging workshops, insightful roundtable discussions and dynamic pitches from emerging companies.
“We are thrilled to support the next generation of innovators emerging from HBCUs,” said Troy LeMaile-Stovall, CEO of TEDCO. “The unfortunate reality is that these entrepreneurs are often overlooked, which not only does them a disservice but also hinders the growth of the entire ecosystem. As such, this competition is about more than just showcasing talent—it’s about creating real opportunities for these bright minds to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond. We can’t wait to hear from the inspiring innovators who will help build tomorrow’s ecosystem.”
Tickets for this vibrant event are selling fast, so make sure to secure your spot now and prepare yourself for a day of inspiration.