Three of the ten winners in the 2021 Startup Challenge Monterey Bay competition were founded by CSUMB students. The winning teams took home cash prizes, business services, and, of course, trophies from this competition. Startup Challenge companies are also invited to continue working on their businesses through the Institute for Innovation and Economic Development’s (iiED) Startup Launchpad, which offers ongoing services to help develop these innovative regional businesses.
Segura Enterprise, a public safety startup providing pedestrians more time to react to oncoming first responders and reducing response time for first responders was one of two runner-up winners in the Venture Division. This company’s founder is Daven Segura, a College of Business student.
Connections, a nonprofit featuring a website with activities, events, and connection opportunities for seniors, organized by county, was one of two runner-up winners in the Social Venture division. The company’s founder is Kathybelle Barlow, a College of Health Sciences and Human Services student.
Ironwood Makerspace, a creator’s space and workshop providing studio space and equipment for hobbyists and crafters in a community-based atmosphere on the Student division. The company’s founders are all students of the College of Business, Bridget Cotton, Elsa Frade Diaz, and Tom Derek.
This is the first time that any CSUMB students were among the winners’ circle. We are so proud of their efforts to build these new ventures and hope to see more CSUMB student entrepreneurs in the future.
For more information about the Startup Challenge and all of the winners please visit the Startup Challenge Monterey Bay website.
