What it is: The TCNewTech pitch competition, recurring regularly throughout the year, was first launched in 2015, an effort from Traverse City’s Russell Schindler to better connect the region’s tech professionals and startups. Entrepreneurs pitch their startups in front of a panel of judges and live audience as they vie for cash prizes, in-kind business support services and resources, and more. It became a program of 20Fathoms in 2024.
Why it’s important: “It was inspiring to see how many people turned out to support local entrepreneurs on a beautiful summer day,” says Eric Roberts, executive director of 20Fathoms. “The support that we saw from the community, especially for our local entrepreneur whose family was in the audience, is what we’re about here in Traverse City.”
Winner’s Circle: The most recent TCNewTech pitch competition was held at the City Opera House in Traverse City on Tuesday, July 30. Taking home the $5,000 grand prize was Swish Brand Experiences, a product-sampling platform that integrates full-size product samples into online grocery orders. The platform leverages advanced data analytics and personalized targeting to connect foodmakers with potential customers at higher conversion rates.
Runners-up: Winning second place, a $2,000 cash prize, was Adrenaline Interactive. The tech start-up has developed in-game advertising technology that converts mobile gamers into customers. And winning a $500 Audience Choice Award was the Traverse City-based Oddment Audio, which develops electronic musical instruments like Groc, their granular synthesizer that is expected to launch in 2025.
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