Entrepreneurs from across Hampton Roads gathered once again for Start Peninsula Micro Pitch 4, the final qualifier event of 2025. Ten startups took the virtual stage, each presenting bold ideas aimed at transforming industries from education and construction to technology, health, and recreation.

The night showcased exactly what makes the region’s startup community so exciting—real people solving real problems with ingenuity and heart.

And when the votes were tallied, three companies stood out from the pack: Where2Wheel, HUNNiE, and MechaStructure. Each will move on to the Start Peninsula Grand Finale on November 12, where the top three ventures will earn $5,000 to fuel their growth.

Meet the Winners

Where2Wheel
At a time when outdoor access is shrinking, Where2Wheel is reconnecting people to the trails they love. The company operates a marketplace that links off-roaders with rural landowners—think “Airbnb for offroading”—creating new spaces to ride while helping landowners generate income. With more than 3,000 users served and $100K in gross merchandise value, Where2Wheel is proving that outdoor adventure and smart tech can go hand-in-hand.

HUNNiE
Language learning meets artificial intelligence with HUNNiE, a personalized language app paired with a companion journal. Designed around each learner’s unique style, HUNNiE makes it easier to speak and write confidently in a new language. By combining intelligent customization with creative engagement, HUNNiE is helping users learn faster and stay motivated.

MechaStructure
What began as a concept for in-space construction has evolved into a breakthrough for building on Earth. MechaStructure’s robotic structural system enables massive infrastructures to be assembled autonomously—and even move like machines once complete. From orbital habitats to remote construction zones, MechaStructure is engineering the future of large-scale automation.

The Finalists

The competition also featured a diverse group of entrepreneurs from across Hampton Roads, including:

  • Birds Nest Therapy, LLC — Expanding access to mental health services through authentic, community-driven counseling and workshops.

  • Duct — Empowering AI Ops teams to instantly deploy custom functions and tools without DevOps delays.

  • Harrison Bertolo — Building accessible entrepreneurship education through the Ideare app and Ventale simulation game.

  • LightWork Equitable Solutions — Helping organizations foster inclusion and equity through culture assessments and training.

  • More Laughing Arts & Media (MLAM) — Providing youth across the Peninsula with hands-on media, broadcasting, and performance experience.

  • Strella — A conversational AI platform that automates everyday tasks using dynamic, context-aware agents.

  • The King’s Guard LLC — Crafting high-quality 3D-printed replicas of collegiate landmarks for alumni and campus bookstores.

Judges

This round’s panel included:

As the Start Peninsula Finale on November 12 approaches, anticipation is building. Grab your seat to the big finale here. The competition has already spotlighted dozens of innovators throughout the year, and this final trio—Where2Wheel, HUNNiE, and MechaStructure—represents the next wave of bold entrepreneurs shaping the future of Hampton Roads.

Don’t miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads’ innovation and business community.