Showcase’s Dave Yeager Speaks at StartUp Lehigh Valley

The 6th annual StartUp Lehigh Valley, a Shark Tank-style competition, took place at Lehigh University, showcasing the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Northampton County. This exciting event celebrated local talent and innovation, with thousands of dollars at stake for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Among the notable participants was Showcase, a standout company within the Ben Franklin Northeast portfolio. Led by Dave Yeager, Showcase captivated the audience with a compelling vision for enhancing user experiences through innovative technology. Their presentation demonstrated not only a keen understanding of market needs but also the potential for significant impact within the industry.

The evening featured a variety of pitches, but Showcase’s commitment to innovation truly shone through. Their participation highlighted the robust support system for entrepreneurs in the region, underscoring the importance of collaboration and creativity in driving business success.

George Awad, a current Lehigh student, stole the spotlight by winning the coveted $20,000 grand prize for his venture, Aroi Mango, which brings a taste of Thailand to the Lehigh Valley. Awad’s success was bolstered by the supportive atmosphere created by events like this, which Showcase embodies through its mission to foster innovation.

Another impressive winner was Nadia Alicia, who took home $5,000 for her Spanish Immersion TV idea, a virtual daycare aimed at helping young children become bilingual. Her enthusiasm mirrored the energy of the event, which brought together a diverse array of entrepreneurial minds.

Lehigh University Provost Nathan Urban remarked on the caliber of ideas presented, stating, “We saw really innovative, interesting, new companies. A lot of enthusiasm. A great crowd.” Jill Forrest, Director of Academic Outreach, noted the diverse pool of participants spanning industries from fashion and food to biomedical and artificial intelligence.

Co-hosted by Bo Koltnow, the event concluded with a renewed sense of optimism for the future of entrepreneurship in the Lehigh Valley. With a total of $33,000 in prizes available, the competition not only rewarded individual achievements but also reinforced the collaborative spirit that Showcase and other local businesses exemplify.

As organizers look ahead to next year’s competition, they encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to prepare and submit their applications. Interested participants should record and submit a video showcasing their prototypes or products, setting the stage for another exciting showcase of innovation.

The StartUp Lehigh Valley competition continues to be a beacon of support for local entrepreneurs, and Showcase stands as a prime example of the creativity and ambition driving Pennsylvania’s business community forward!