MILWAUKEE – May 9, 2024 – Continuing its dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and emerging technologies, Molson Coors is again sponsoring the annual Summerfest Tech Pitch Competition in partnership with Milwaukee World Festival Inc. (MWF) and Young Enterprising Society (YES). On June 26, eight finalists will pitch their startups to win a portion of the $50,000 cash prize. Finalists from the greater Milwaukee area will also have the chance to win an additional $5,000 as the “Hometown Winner.”
“Our involvement in the Summerfest Tech Pitch Competition is a testament to Molson Coors’ support of the growth of new technologies and budding entrepreneurs in Milwaukee and across the globe,” said Jonah Turner, head of technology innovation at Molson Coors and member of the Summerfest Tech steering committee. “Alongside our partners and participants, we are collectively driving forward the business and tech sectors. We look forward to the impact these innovative startups will have on their communities.”
In 2023, over 100 startups from around the world applied for the pitch competition, which provides a national and international stage for business and tech professionals, entrepreneurs and investors to enhance Milwaukee’s reputation as a global tech hub. This year, the competition saw a record number of 142 applicants from 19 states and 18 countries. Applications were received in April, and YES selected the finalists who will participate in the pitch competition.
The eight finalists competing for the first-place prize of $20,000 include:
• Athlytic (Detroit): Athlytic is an AI-enabled marketplace that connects student athletes with potential brand partnerships. Athlytic gives student athletes a platform to capitalize on their own names, images and likeness throughout their athletic careers.
• Atomix (Milwaukee): Atomix provides ecommerce order fulfillment services that integrate with stores, allowing for customized fulfillment and proactive plans for company growth.
• Econofi (Chicago): Econofi is a product innovation for community banks, enabling them to provide modern financial services on par with large banks and online fintechs through technology.
• Liff Happens (Chicago): The Liff app is a software platform designed to help organizations manage their customer experience for lost and found items.
• Lotza (Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin): The only drink mixer designed to protect against the negative effects of alcohol, Lotza also supports liver health and next-day recovery.
• REACH College and Career Pathways (Chicago): REACH College and Career Pathways is a virtual world where students can interact with mentors and companies, made for high-performing, under-resourced students.
• RoddyMedical (Milwaukee): RoddyMedical is developing innovative medical devices that improve clinical safety, mobility and patient outcomes.
• Zinacare (South Africa): Zinacare is an at-home health testing service that prioritizes confidentiality, convenience and affordability, democratizing access to healthcare.
Summerfest Tech 2024 will take place at Henry Maier Festival Park and Potawatomi Casino Hotel in Milwaukee. Growing from three to four days in 2024, the conference will run from Monday, June 24 to Thursday, June 27. Summerfest Tech programming will focus on energy and sustainability tech, biohealth, cybersecurity, business innovation and strategy, tech for good and mentorship. The Summerfest Tech Pitch Competition takes place June 26 from 3-4 p.m. All programming will be free of charge. To learn more and register, visit Summerfest-Tech.com.
Molson Coors has partnered with past winners of the Summerfest Tech Pitch Competition, including an ongoing test to integrate the safety technology developed by Kwema, the 2022 first place winner, at its Milwaukee campus. Kwema’s smart wearable work badges, equipped with security systems, enable employees to discreetly request assistance within three seconds. This partnership underscores Molson Coors’ commitment to embracing innovative solutions and supporting entrepreneurs.
About Molson Coors Beverage Company
For more than two centuries, Molson Coors has brewed beverages that unite people for all life’s moments. From Coors Light, Miller Lite, Molson Canadian, Carling, Madrí Excepcional and Staropramen to Coors Banquet, Blue Moon Belgian White, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, Vizzy Hard Seltzer, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, Simply Spiked Lemonade, ZOA Energy, Blue Run Spirits, Creemore Springs and more, Molson Coors produces some of the most beloved and iconic brands ever made. While the company’s history is rooted in beer, Molson Coors offers a modern portfolio that expands beyond the beer aisle with energy drinks, bottled spirits, ready-to drink cocktails, cider and more. To learn more about Molson Coors Beverage Company, visit molsoncoors.com.
About Summerfest Tech Summerfest Tech began in 2018 with the goal of leveraging the Summerfest brand to showcase technology and provide a forum for attendees from the tech and business community to network, educate, and celebrate the evolution of technology. Summerfest Tech continues to champion the regional business community, while shining the spotlight on Wisconsin’s growing reputation as a tech hub, highlighting the growth and opportunity in the region. Programming from local, regional, and national speakers, as well as a cash-prize pitch competition, connects the tech community around relevant topics. Summerfest Tech will be held June 24-27, 2024, free of charge, in-person and available virtually. For more details, visit Summerfest-tech.com.
