We are thrilled to announce the exceptional entrepreneurs selected for Cohort 6 of bwtech’s Maryland NEW VENTURE™ Program! The application process was highly competitive this year, and we deeply appreciate everyone who applied and shared their innovative ideas with us.
Meet Our Cohort 6 Entrepreneurs!
- Carson Becker – Gibbon Studio: Democratizing access to high-quality design systems and AI-enhanced creative workflows for startups
- Samad Saifudin – Workflow Control: Modernizing energy compliance and building performance management for commercial real estate
- Donna Vincent Roa – MicDots: Innovative technology solutions for enhanced communication and connectivity
- Payam Kamjoo – Esurgi, Inc.: Advanced surgical technology and medical device innovations
- Jingsen Ma – MBaFUs: A Virtual Lab of Microbubble-augmented Focused Ultrasound for Noninvasive Surgery
- Velma Funebe – iBraid: Using augmented reality to make hair braiding techniques more accessible and easier to learn
- Erica Jeanine – Think Happy Live Happy: Wellness and mental health technology solutions for positive living
- Dong Li – Cardio Monitoring: Advanced cardiovascular monitoring and health technology solutions
What Makes This Cohort Special? These entrepreneurs represent the diversity and innovation that define Maryland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. From AI-powered agriculture and sustainable aquaculture to cybersecurity for seniors and accessible beauty technology, each venture addresses real-world challenges with cutting-edge solutions.
We’re proud that our cohort consists of Maryland-based companies with many entrepreneurs connected to UMBC, reinforcing our commitment to growing local innovation and retaining Maryland’s brightest minds in the state.
Over the next 12 weeks, these entrepreneurs will work alongside dedicated Mentors and Fellows to refine their ideas, validate their markets, and develop compelling pitch decks. The program will culminate with Pitch Night on May 11, 2026.
Congratulations to all our selected entrepreneurs! We can’t wait to support your journey from innovative idea to market-ready venture!