Start Peninsula’s 2025 Micro Pitch season has highlighted some of Hampton Roads’ most innovative startups, and the excitement continues as we approach the Grand Finale on November 12. Across four Micro Pitch events this year, twelve companies have emerged as finalists, each earning the chance to compete for $5,000 in funding and access to resources that will help accelerate their growth.

The 12 Grand Finale Finalists:

Micro Pitch #1 Winners

  • Hypercube Motors Corporation – Developer of Nyla, a teleoperated robotic nurse designed to assist with non-critical tasks and increase efficiency in healthcare settings.

  • Life Light – AI-powered lighting device that detects and communicates harmful chemical fingerprints in real time.

  • TRO Energy Solutions, Inc. – Provides reliable EV charging solutions for military families living in temporary housing.

Micro Pitch #2 Winners

  • Haus of Vibes DIY – Hands-on creativity studio offering custom beauty products, sensory experiences, and mobile workshops.

  • Marlow Royale – Specialized lash kits meeting military standards and offering entrepreneurial opportunities for makeup artists.

  • Metaclick – AI-driven business solutions platform helping companies increase engagement, improve efficiency, and make data-informed decisions.

Micro Pitch #3 Winners

  • Cargoyle – Innovative locking solutions for shipping containers and railroad boxcars.

  • Loyalty Technologies – Turns agricultural waste into high-value carbon nanomaterials for energy storage, water purification, and advanced composites.

  • Southern Belle Fungus – Mushroom cultivation and education business combining commerce with community learning.

Micro Pitch #4 Winners

  • HUNNiE – AI-driven language learning app paired with a personalized journal for an engaging, effective experience.

  • MechaStructure – Robotic-structural system enabling large-scale, autonomous construction in remote or extreme environments.

  • Where2Wheel – Marketplace connecting off-road enthusiasts with landowners to expand recreational trail access.

“These finalists represent the creativity, ambition, and resilience of Hampton Roads entrepreneurs,” said Tim Ryan, Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads. “We can’t wait to see which companies take home the top prizes at the Grand Finale.”

The Grand Finale will take place November 12, where the top three winners will each receive $5,000 to support their ventures and continue their journey of innovation.

For more information or to follow the event, visit Start Peninsula  or secure your free seat here.

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