Virginia’s Biggest Business Bash: Startup World Cup Virginia Finals 2025

On August 21st, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts was electric as entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders from across the Commonwealth gathered for the 2025 Startup World Cup Virginia Regional Finals—the biggest business bash of the summer.

The evening kicked off with a powerful performance from the ODU Marching Band, setting the tone for a high-energy night of competition and celebration. Fans were treated to surprise appearances from the Norfolk Tides and their mascot Riptide, plus a lively Crunchy Hydration drink-off that had the crowd cheering. Adding to the excitement, we also revealed the finalists for 757 TechNite, happening October 9th at the Chrysler Museum.

But the heart of the evening was the stage—where ten bold Virginia startups battled for the chance to represent the Commonwealth at the global Startup World Cup Finals in San Francisco, where $1 million is on the line.

And many thanks to the powerhouse judges who made the Startup World Cup Virginia Regional Finals possible. Nancy Grden, President & CEO of the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable, brought her deep experience leading biotech ventures and shaping the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Zakiya Alta Lee-Hill, Principal at Idea Fund Partners, offered her expertise in early-stage investing and venture accessibility, building on her own entrepreneurial success. Frank Taylor, Senior Investment Associate at Virginia Venture Partners, shared his sharp eye for high-growth tech startups backed by a track record of more than 40 investments. And Gary Warren, founder of ivWatch, brought the perspective of a visionary entrepreneur whose company not only won last year’s Virginia Regional Finals but went on to place third globally.

Meet the 2025 Finalists

Ara Platforms – GitHub for Analytics, making insight delivery efficient, connected, and scalable.

AttorneyLive – An award-winning app-based tele-law service putting attorneys at your fingertips.

Avant Genomics – Revolutionizing blood-based cancer detection with automated liquid biopsy technology.

Crunchy Hydration – More than a beverage, a movement for everyday mental and physical wellness.

EdLogics – A platform transforming health literacy and driving better outcomes across communities.

Luminoah – Med-tech reimagining enteral care with the world’s first closed-loop personalized nutrition system.

NGZ AI – Veteran-led company delivering trustworthy AI solutions to improve DoD and VA healthcare.

SalesE – Bringing control and clarity to complex manufacturing and distribution sales through transparent AI.

SurgicalEd VR – Training the hands of surgeons through VR, haptic feedback, and AI-powered coaching.

VroomBrick – A Navy veteran–founded real estate platform making home buying and selling more affordable and accessible.

And the Winner Is…

This year’s Startup World Cup Virginia Champion is Luminoah!

They will go on to represent Virginia at the global finals in San Francisco, competing against the world’s top startups for the $1 million grand prize. Their bold vision and relentless execution wowed both the judges and the audience, proving that Virginia innovation is ready for the world stage.

60 Seconds NXT Gen

In between the finalist pitches, the audience was introduced to a slate of rising organizations and businesses during the 60 Seconds NXT Gen segments. Each participant had one minute to present their vision, spotlighting the next wave of innovation shaping Virginia’s future.

  • HerculE-Q — HerculE-Q delivers wireless charging solutions for light electric vehicle providers, building a sustainable network for micro-mobility. Its hybrid wireless charging system combines convenience, efficiency, and innovation to power a cleaner, more connected future. Learn more

  • StewTech — StewTech powers the future of personal mobility with cutting-edge electric vehicle design. Serving both tactical and non-tactical needs, the company blends performance, reliability, and innovation to deliver vehicles built for the toughest environments and everyday life. Learn more

  • Digital Builders — Empowering Norfolk’s youth through technology, creativity, and mentorship. Learn more

  • Free Life — Curating alcohol-free experiences where memories are made without a hangover. Free Life is redefining celebration without spirits—because life’s best moments are crystal clear. Learn more

  • Agria (3 Ridge Technologies) — Revolutionizing indoor farming by enabling growers to produce high-quality, affordable, chemical-free, USDA Certified Organic produce. Learn more

  • Black Brand — The Hampton Roads Black Chamber of Commerce, empowering and uniting Black-owned businesses across the region. Learn more

  • Neptune Shield — Dedicated to commercializing dual-use technologies for national defense and maritime infrastructure industries, Neptune Shield provides an ecosystem of collaboration that advances innovation, strengthens security, and drives prosperity. Learn more

Looking Ahead

These companies embody the grit, ambition, and innovation powering Virginia’s startup ecosystem. The Startup World Cup Virginia Finals weren’t just a pitch competition—they were a celebration of entrepreneurship, community, and the future of innovation across the Commonwealth. From the marching band and mascots to the drink-off and TechNite finalist reveal, the night reminded us why Virginia is a place where bold ideas take flight.

Stay tuned as Luminoah prepares for San Francisco, and mark your calendars for 757 TechNite on October 9th at the Chrysler Museum, where we’ll continue celebrating the innovators shaping our region’s future.