The Startup Peninsula 2023 Finalists were recently announced at an annual entrepreneurial event in Hampton Roads, Virginia. Among the top pitchers at the online Micro Pitch event were The B.O.B.O. Collective, a game-changing initiative that connects black-owned consumer packaged goods businesses with resources and a network of black-owned supply chain professionals; FreeLife, an innovative social platform that offers a fresh approach to addiction recovery through storytelling, community engagement, and an accountability program; and KeepUp, a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that offers busy professionals a solution to maintain personal connections through customizable texts, emails, and letters. Each finalist received a $500 prize and an invitation to the Championship Pitch event on November 8th, where they’ll compete for $5,000 in business support and gain access to valuable local resources.
Start Peninsula 2023 Finalists
On April 19th, the Start Peninsula, an annual entrepreneurial event for the Hampton Roads, Virginia area, announced the second set of finalists for the 2023 competition. Following an online Micro Pitch event, The B.O.B.O. Collective, FreeLife, and KeepUp emerged as the top pitchers, beating seven other pitchers to secure their spots.
The B.O.B.O. Collective
The B.O.B.O. Collective is a game-changer for black-owned consumer packaged goods (CPG) businesses. By offering access to essential resources, this initiative connects these enterprises with a network of black-owned supply chain professionals, helping them scale up their production, distribution, and shipping processes.
FreeLife
FreeLife brings innovation to addiction recovery by creating a social platform that offers an accessible, acceptable, and enjoyable experience. Through storytelling, community engagement, and an accountability program, FreeLife redefines the recovery journey for those in need.
KeepUp
KeepUp, a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform, provides a solution for busy professionals to maintain personal connections with their close contacts. The software creates client profiles, tracking significant dates, personal details, and life events. KeepUp’s personalized automation generates customizable texts, emails, and letters, enabling users to maintain relationships effortlessly.
Championship Pitch Event
Each finalist receives a $500 prize and an invitation to the Championship Pitch event on November 8th, where they’ll compete for $5,000 in business support and gain access to valuable local resources.
Upcoming Micro Pitch Competitions
Start Peninsula will host two more Micro Pitch competitions on September 13th and October 11th. Early-stage businesses are encouraged to apply and participate in these exciting events.
Panel of Judges
The esteemed panel of judges for the first Micro Pitch included Erica McMannes, Co-founder of Instant Teams; Carlton Campbell, Sr. Director of Engineering at Elevance Health; and Chris Davidson, Founder and Lead Strategist at Orca.
About Start Peninsula
Since 2012, Start Peninsula has been held annually in different Peninsula localities. The 2023 event is hosted by York County in partnership with the Cities of Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Poquoson, and James City County. The competition continues to foster growth and innovation within the local entrepreneurial community.
Question & Answer
1. What were the top finalists announced at the Startup Peninsula 2023 event?
Among the top finalists were The B.O.B.O. Collective, FreeLife, and KeepUp.
2. What does The B.O.B.O. Collective aim to do?
The B.O.B.O. Collective aims to connect black-owned consumer packaged goods businesses with resources and a network of black-owned supply chain professionals.
3. How does FreeLife innovate addiction recovery?
FreeLife innovates addiction recovery by offering a social platform that includes storytelling, community engagement, and an accountability program.
4. What service does KeepUp provide?
KeepUp is a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that helps busy professionals maintain personal connections through customizable texts, emails, and letters.
