Fractional Insights takes top award at the November 19 TCNewTech Pitch Competition

Blooma awarded second place award; Ecosphere Organics took home the Audience Choice Award

20Fathoms is pleased to announce the winners of the November 19 TCNewTech pitch competition. Fractional Insights won the First Place Award, receiving an award of $5000.

The Fractional Insights pitch was presented by Erin Eatough, Co-Founder & Chief Science Officer. Based in Traverse City, 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. Fractional Insights catalyzes the creation of resilient, adaptive, and fulfilling workplaces, in a world where human and AI capabilities are rapidly converging.

The $2000 Second Place Award went to Blooma, the first all-in-one garden app that unites gardeners through vibrant social connections and empowers them with smart, easy-to-use resources. Based in Leelanau County, 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. The pitch for Blooma was presented by Erin Blohm, Founder.

Ecosphere Organics took home the Audience Choice Award. Ecosphere Organics is a sustainable materials company transforming organic waste, such as food by-products, into refined raw materials. The pitch for Ecosphere Organics was presented by Brittanie Dabney, Founder & CEO.

Earthly After also pitched. Earthly After offers eco-friendly memorial services for people and pets, combining grief support with conservation efforts.

Madison Meter of TiltThink Improv moderated the event. Pitch presentations were 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, and Jennifer Szunko, past Executive Director of TCNewTech and Co-owner of Discovery Cruises.

Awards and event support were made possible through the generosity of community partners including Huntington Bank, Axios HR, Thompson Retractor, Alfie Logo Gear, and Northern Michigan Woman Magazine.