20Fathoms is pleased to announce the four companies selected to compete at the TCNewTech pitch competition on November 19, 4:30 – 7:30 pm, at the City Opera House in Traverse City.
Pitch presenters:
Blooma
Blooma is the first all-in-one garden app that unites gardeners through vibrant social connections and empowers them with smart, easy-to-use resources. Blooma gives the growing market of Gen-Z & Millennial gardeners what they need to start, manage, and grow their garden wherever they are on their journey. Using intuitive technology and a standout user experience, Blooma makes more and better gardeners.
Earthly After
Earthly After offers eco-friendly memorial services for people and pets, combining grief support with conservation efforts. They create personalized, nature-based ceremonies in national parks, beginning with Sleeping Bear Dunes, allowing loved ones to honor their memories while contributing to environmental preservation. Their services extend beyond memorials to include AI-assisted event planning and ongoing grief support through digital platforms, helping families create lasting legacies while protecting natural spaces for future generations. This unique blend of environmental conservation and personalized memorialization sets them apart.
Ecosphere Organics
Ecosphere Organics is a sustainable materials company transforming organic waste, such as food by-products, into refined raw materials. These materials are used in various industries, including manufacturing and agriculture, to replace traditional, less sustainable resources. The company’s mission is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create closed-loop systems by converting waste into reusable products, supporting the circular economy.
Fractional Insights
Fractional Insights is a research and advisory firm revolutionizing the future of work. They bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and human-centric workplace design. Their founders developed the concept of psychological ergonomics – a groundbreaking approach that aligns work systems with human cognitive and emotional needs. They empower both enterprises and work tech vendors to thrive in the AI era by applying this science-backed methodology to their most pressing challenges. They envision themselves as a leading force in shaping the future of work, creating AI-powered tools for data analysis and insight generation. Fractional Insights catalyzes the creation of resilient, adaptive, and fulfilling workplaces, in a world where human and AI capabilities are rapidly converging.
The pitch presenters will compete for a $5000 first place award, $2000 second place award, and $500 audience favorite award.
“At this month’s TCNewTech, we’re highlighting female founders,” said Delaney Keating, Director of Entrepreneurship & Commercialization at 20Fathoms. “It’s going to be an uplifting evening as we celebrate the continual rise of women in business.”
Pitch presentations will be judged by a panel of local startup experts including:
- MJ Cartwright, Mentor in Residence at University of Michigan Innovation Partnerships
- Christine Roberts, Experienced business leader, formerly with HP as Head of Business and Transition Operations
- Mandy Sentieri, Chief Financial Officer at Traverse Connect
- Jen Szunko, past Executive Director of TCNewTech and Co-owner of Discovery Cruises
In addition, the audience will vote on their favorite pitch.
The event will be moderated by Madison Meter with Tilt Think Improv. Tilt Think Improv will also perform at the event.
Fireside Chat & Startup Expo
In addition to the pitch competition, the event will include a fireside chat with Denise Kay, CEO of Enspired Solutions, a women-owned and led startup that provides permanent destruction of PFAS to protect water sustainability for all.
A Startup Expo will also be held in the lobby of the City Opera House before and after the competition. Attendees can enjoy refreshments as they meet with entrepreneurs and startup service providers who can help them move their business forward. Featuring:
- SCORE Traverse City
- SheEO
- Michigan Innovation Podcast
- MSUFCU
- Bailey’s Farms
- Northern Michigan Woman Magazine
- 20Fathoms
There will be an afterparty at 7 Monks Taproom, co-hosted by Northern Michigan Woman Magazine.
The community is invited to attend this fun and inspiring event. There is no cost to attend. Reserve your ticket.
About TCNewTech
A program of 20Fathoms, TCNewTech is a recurring pitch competition supported by tech enthusiasts, businesses, and entrepreneurs. Founded in 2015 as a way to connect local tech professionals, TCNewTech is a critical component in Traverse City’s growing startup community. Since its founding, more than 250 companies have pitched and nearly $50,000 in pitch prizes have been awarded.
Prizes and event support for this event were made possible through the generosity of community partners including Huntington Bank, Axios HR, Thompson Retractor, and Alfie Logo Gear.