bwtech and Startup Grind Maryland Unveil Inaugural Cohort for the Startup Accelerator Pilot Program
Catonsville, MD (March 12, 2024) – bwtech@UMBC and Startup Grind Maryland announced nine outstanding startup entrepreneurs selected for the pilot cohort of Startup Accelerator, a program designed to provide promising startup founders and CEOs with the knowledge and resources they need to grow a successful, sustainable business. This landmark initiative, developed in partnership by bwtech and Startup Grind Maryland, marks a significant step forward in fostering homegrown innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in Maryland.
Startup Accelerator Cohort 1:
- Revelar Analytics, Maria Nikol, CEO
- Nataur LLC, Kathleen Turano, CEO
- Athena Environmental Sciences, Inc. Benjamin Broedel, CEO
- Uplift Geosystems, Daniel Nothaft, CEO
- Heavy Lift Drones LLC, Solomon David Spector, CEO
- High Potential Designs LLC, Bert Estes, CEO
- ItinAFairy LLC, Kirsten Tucker, CEO
- Gintention LLC, Malaika Dirieh, CEO
- Fluffy NAS, Matthew Zamora, CEO
The startup companies selected for the program represent a diverse array of industries and innovation areas, showcasing the rich potential of Maryland’s entrepreneurial landscape. As they progress through the program, these companies will be poised to become key players in their respective fields, contributing to the growth and vibrancy of Maryland’s economy.
Designed by Maryland entrepreneurs, for Maryland entrepreneurs, the program uses Maryland-based FounderTrac software to provide the structure, guidance, and tools startups need for sustainable business growth, and is managed by seasoned industry professionals, mentors, and advisors. The pilot program launches on Tuesday, March 12 and will culminate in a Pitch Night Gala on June 4, 2024.
Over 12 weeks, program participants will embark on an intensive journey of growth and discovery. The program offers a robust curriculum that covers crucial aspects of business development, from refining business models and scaling operations to effective marketing and team building strategies. In addition, participants will receive unparalleled access to a rich network of resources, including expert advisors, industry leaders, and investors who are deeply embedded in the Maryland entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“bwtech is proud to offer programs like Startup Accelerator that empower innovative entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into successful businesses,” states Marjie Cota, Director of Entrepreneurial Services with bwtech@UMBC. “We are especially delighted to welcome five members of the bwtech community into our first cohort!”
Chris Haug, Managing Director of Startup Grind Maryland, says “Our goal with Startup Accelerator program is to create a supportive, informative, and dynamic environment where Maryland’s entrepreneurs can learn and grow. We believe that by bringing together ambitious innovators in our state and providing them with the right tools and connections, we can make a significant impact on the future of Maryland’s economy. This program embodies our commitment to fostering a vibrant startup culture in Maryland.”
About Startup Grind Maryland
Startup Grind Maryland is part of a global startup community designed to educate, inspire, and connect entrepreneurs.
About bwtech@UMBC
bwtech@UMBC is a dynamic innovation and entrepreneurship hub that supports startups and technology companies through incubation, research collaboration, educational programs, expert mentorship, and strategic connections in Maryland and beyond.