Congratulations to the winners and a big shoutout to all top 5!

The anticipation that has been brewing since the announcement of the top 5 finalists for the SVB and StartupOS sponsored pitch event at AfroTech reached its pinnacle last night in Austin in front of a live audience. From a competitive pool of 100 applicants, five exceptional startup founders were given the opportunity to shine. Now, we are ecstatic to introduce the top three startups that captivated the judges and secured their win.

1st PLACE: $15,000
Reneé Seward, See Word Design
See Words Anywhere is an innovative technology platform that empowers readers of all ages to hone their skills while immersing themselves in their favorite digital content. Our groundbreaking patented literacy font not only makes reading enjoyable but also provides crucial phonics training, seamlessly embedding dynamic pictograms within letters for a transformative reading experience.

2nd PLACE: $12,000
Anitra Davenport, INKZUP
INKZUP is a two-sided marketplace revolutionizing the tattoo industry. INKZUP connects talented tattoo artists with their next customers, empowering artists to grow their brand and business.

3rd PLACE: $8,000
Gwyneth Borden, Remynt
Remynt empowers consumers to rebuild credit while resolving delinquent debt, offering a credit reaffirmation product. By acquiring charged-off consumer credit card debt, Remynt provides consumers a platform to earn fresh credit, create savings, access financial management tools, be part of a stimulating community, and earn rewards for repayment.

AfroTech has been a beacon of opportunity for rising startups, and this pitch event was a testament to the vitality and ingenuity present in the entrepreneurial landscape. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our stellar winners, as they embark on a journey of growth and innovation with the support of SVB and StartupOS mentors and a significant boost from their cash prizes.  

And of course, a very special thanks to our distinguished panel of judges:

  • De’Havia Stewart – Investor at Serena Ventures 
  • Barry Givens – Managing Partner at Collab Capitals
  • Kimberly Jolasun – Founder at Villie 
  • Gagan Kanjlia – Chief Product Officer at SVB

As we close this chapter at AfroTech, we’re already looking forward to the next wave of innovators and disruptors joining us at Art Basel in December.  Click here to learn more and apply to pitch.  

At StartupOS we are excited to support the success of the inspiring founders and stay connected for more stories of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in action.

Meet with the StartupOS Team for additional support by scheduling a session with us!