The University of Maryland community came together today in celebration of entrepreneurial excellence. Captivated by the Cupid's Cup competition powered by the Dingman Center at the University of Maryland, students, faculty, alums, regional startups, and investors alike joined in watching as the six finalists from across the country duked it out for a chance at $50,000. With their eyes on the grand prize, each and every startup that presented today understood what a great opportunity it would be to not only further fund their ventures, but also to substantiate themselves as businesses that have received the approval of Under Armour Founder Kevin Plank. Ultimately, the decision came down to the six judges, with Kevin Plank announcing to the crowd sitting on the edge of their seats that Earth Starter LLC had been named the winner of Cupid's Cup 2013.CoverPlay Audio followed Earth Starter in second with Diagnostic anSERS taking third place.
Earth Starter LLC was started by two University of Maryland alums, Phil Weiner and John-Randal-Gorby, partners whose dream came true today. Starting off as Calc II classmates, the two quickly realized they shared a passion for startups, the environment, and of course, technology. Joining forces, the two created Nourishmat, a mat that mimics the traditional garden blanket, but is equipped with a slew of advantageous features that allow anyone to garden easily and productively. Fostering the growth of healthy food no matter the outdoor conditions, Nourishmat eliminates the need for pesticides while also preventing those pesky weeds we love to hate from infringing on our produce.
[Learn more about Earth Starter LLC here]
Entrepreneurs from 24 various universities in 16 states entered the competition and now one has been awarded the Cupid's Cup, a truly remarkable feat. A business competition open to undergraduate and graduate students who are enrolled at accredited U.S. universities and young alumni who are currently running their own businesses with proof of traction, Cupid's Cup highlights what the University of Maryland and the DMV area are aiming to promote and facilitating the growth of: startups. New, innovative businesses with outstanding potential, that's what Cupid's Cup is all about.
All six finalists developed their products from the ground up, created something that truly would change the world we live in today for the better. They were each worthy of the grand prize, all bringing something unique to the table that has managed to encapsulate a consumer base who swear by their creations. Don't forget their names, they have the potential, the drive, the relentless attitude to be successful. Check all of the amazing talent below.
Congratulations to all of Cupid's Cup contestants, you are an inspiration.
