There is more to an upcoming showcase of about a dozen young tech companies than just a chance for the entrepreneurs to meet the public.
It’s also a means for Orlando’s tech community to show off a little bit at an event organized by Black Orlando Tech.
“We have the drive and desire to showcase what we can build here in the city and surrounding areas,” said BOT CEO Safia Porter. “You don’t always have to travel to Tampa, Miami or Fort Lauderdale to see who is great in this state. We can build great tech startups in our backyard.”
The Expedition Orbit: Startup Founder Showcase will feature 11 local startups in a sort of meet-and-greet environment, which will offer entrepreneurs a chance to meet potential funders and others to learn more about Orlando startups.
Note: You can visit THIS LINK to buy tickets for the event, which will take place at Great Southern Box Company, 2105 N. Orange Blossom Trail, on March 28 at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $25 through March 15, when they will bump up to $35, and include appetizers.
The goal of showcasing the businesses has to do with uplifting Orlando’s tech ecosystem, Porter said.
“We are pushing the needle and applying the pressure this year,” she said. “We want all of us to win. It’s not a competition. Orlando has the capacity and the drive for that to happen.”
Here are the companies scheduled to showcase at the event:
BuildUP – Andrew Thomas
A front-to-back finance tool for small businesses.
Pocket Content – JArthur (Jay) Grubbs
An AI-powered platform that empowers businesses to create content.
Reel Champ – Leon Ashby
A mobile application that specializes in celebrity messaging for charity.
Simplix – Wilfredo Lassalle Jr.
Simplifies regulatory compliance.
Fundi Labs – Ryan Johnson
Streamlines blockchain-based smart contracts for financial aid related to humanitarian causes.
Prodisphere – Mehul Patel and Ebose Okondo
Valuation platform for athletes’ name, image and likeness.
SNTIMNT.AI – Chris Cyrille
AI-powered sentiment analysis platform.
Employers 4 Change – Isabella Johnston
AI-powered platform aligning intern talent to employers.
Scoutz – Antonio Depina
A sports recruitment app and website.
Icebreakr – Dr. Marcus Herndon
A board game/mobile app meant to create social interaction.
Tipbux – Stephon Bilyan