TEDCO Announces University Pitch Competition to Take Place at 2025 Entrepreneur Expo
Entrepreneur Expo to host competition for I-Corps Hub graduates
COLUMBIA, Md., (September 29, 2025) — TEDCO, Maryland’s economic engine for technology companies, announces the panel “Future Founders: University Pitch Competition” to take place at the upcoming 2025 Entrepreneur Expo at The Hotel at the University of Maryland on October 21, 2025. The session will showcase graduates of the Mid-Atlantic I-Corps Hub, providing a platform for them to pitch startups shaped from their time in the program.
“We are thrilled to be giving innovators space to pitch, learn and flourish,” said Tammi Thomas, chief development and marketing officer, TEDCO. “This competition is more than just showcasing talent; it’s about creating real opportunities for those entrepreneurial spirits looking to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.”
University Pitch Competition participants will present ideas drafted from scientific research and real-world discoveries fostered throughout their time in the regional program backed by the National Science Foundation. During the presentation, the participants will be judged by a panel of innovation leaders who will offer feedback and insights on how to better position their pitches in the future. Any questions about the competition should be directed to admin@lightworkenterprise.com.
“We are excited to continue supporting university-based innovation and the next generation of entrepreneurs. This competition provides current students and recent graduates with valuable exposure to the venture capital community, where they can receive meaningful feedback and guidance,” said Shannon Collins, Co-Founder and Director of Entrepreneurial Learning at Lightwork Enterprise.
Judges for the competition include:
• Facilitator: Shannon Collins, Lightwork Enterprise
• Jainaba Ceesay, Ebross Consult, NSF I-Corps Instructor
• Jimmy Edgerton, Tufts University, NSF I-Corps Instructor
• Malcolm Tyson, TEDCO
TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo is Maryland’s premier gathering for entrepreneurs, business owners, investors and thought leaders to connect, learn and be inspired. This year’s event promises a full day of interactive workshops, insightful discussions and dynamic pitches from emerging companies.
Don’t miss out on the last Entrepreneur Expo! Tickets are limited, so secure your spot now and get ready for a day filled with learning, networking and inspiration.
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About TEDCO
TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. TEDCO identifies, invests in, and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland. Learn more at www.tedcomd.com.
Media Contact
Tammi Thomas, Chief Development & Marketing Officer, TEDCO, tthomas@tedcomd.com
Rachael Kalinyak, Associate Director, Marketing & Communications, TEDCO, rkalinyak@tedcomd.com
