TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo will offer entrepreneurs the chance to pitch their innovations and receive live feedback from experts
COLUMBIA, Md., (October 30, 2024) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces a showcase of innovation and entrepreneurship with the groundbreaking “Concept Capital Pitch Competition,” taking place at the upcoming 2024 Entrepreneur Expo. The Entrepreneur Expo will be held at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel on December 4, 2024.
This session will be the premier of TEDCO’s new Concept Capital program, created to provide critical early-stage funding for tech companies led by underrepresented and socioeconomically disadvantaged founders, especially those who qualify under the Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI) criteria.
To mark the launch of this uniquely impactful program, founders and entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to pitch their innovative business to a panel of experts. The five companies pitching will receive a $25,000 investment as part of the program’s pilot; the competition winner will receive an additional $25,000 investment. By offering these entrepreneurs access to up to $50,000 in funding, the program addresses a major gap in early-stage capital, helping founders turn innovative ideas into scalable businesses.
“This is more than just a competition; it’s a launchpad for the future of innovation, giving these entrepreneurs an opportunity to secure essential funding,” said Graham Dodge, vice president of TEDCO’s Venture Development. “We’re excited to showcase the groundbreaking solutions these innovators are developing and give them a platform to access the resources they need to bring their ideas to life.”
A panel of esteemed judges, renowned for their expertise in technology and venture capital, will evaluate the pitches. Meet our lineup:
• Lisa Friedlander, chief revenue officer, NEXT /My NEXT Raise
• Bill Collier, principal, Noblis Ventures
• Maurice X. Boissiere, partner and chief customer officer, DataTribe
• LaToya Staten, executive director, Fearless Institute
• Mike Ravenscroft, managing director, University System of Maryland Momentum Fund
With their extensive expertise in tech innovation and venture capital, these judges will ensure that the most promising entrepreneurs receive the support they need to succeed.
TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo is a must-attend event for entrepreneurs, business owners, angel and venture capital investors, legislators and influencers. The Expo provides a space for networking, sharing knowledge and gaining inspiration to drive future innovations. Attendees can expect an action-packed day filled with engaging workshops, roundtable discussions and dynamic pitches from Maryland’s next generation of innovators.
Don’t miss out—tickets for this highly anticipated event are limited! Secure your spot now at https://www.tedcomd.com/tedcos-2024-entrepreneur-expo and get ready for a day of inspiration and connection.