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!

The Gallery of Scranton Celebrates Special Showcase

The Gallery of Scranton will celebrate naming “Diva Theater its “Theater in Residence” and the closing of “The Artist’s Soul” exhibit with a special presentation on Friday, May 5.


The Diva troupe will use music, movement, acting and original works in response to the visual art of
prominent Northeast Pennsylvania artists Robert Bergstrasser, Michele Davis, Paul DeLuca, Timothy Hawkesworth, Earl Lehman, Allison Maslow, Travis Prince, Frank Wengen, and the gallery’s owner, Helen Lavelle, who were all featured in “The Artist’s Soul” exhibit. The collaborative event is sponsored by Fidelity Bank who understands the positive impact that the arts have in our community. “The importance of the arts and creative sector on economic growth and vitality is often overlooked, but cannot be overstated,” said Dan Santaniello, president of Fidelity Bank.


“Collaborative partnerships between nonprofits and the business sector make sense for our community.” Diva Theater is a nonprofit, award-winning community theater celebrating its 25th Anniversary in the city of Scranton. The company is under the direction of Paige and Bob Balitski with performances held in the Olde Brick Theatre. The performers have been rehearsing in the gallery itself and Paige Balitski said she is excited for the chance to partner on this special event.


“At Diva Theater, we pride ourselves in producing original plays by local writers and showcasing the
talented performers we have here in Northeast PA. Everything we do works toward fostering the arts
throughout the community so we are excited to partner with Helen and The Gallery of Scranton to bring the work of these accomplished artists to life,” she said.


The Gallery of Scranton will open at 5 p.m. and the Diva performance will begin promptly at 6 p.m.
Attendees will have a chance to meet and interact with all of the performers during a reception following their ½ hour show. Lavelle adds, “When the arts are integrated into the fabric of our community, great things happen. The Artist’s Soul exhibit has been viewed by hundreds to date. Now we are honored to bring Diva Theater talent to The Gallery of Scranton…and are thankful to Fidelity Bank whose support allows all to enjoy this performance free of charge.”