JUMPSTART 2023
Jumpstart 2023, held on August 18, 2023 at Durham Academy with support from the NC IDEA engage grant, achieved remarkable success, with outstanding pitches and enthusiastic feedback. This event marked a significant stride for teen entrepreneurship in North Carolina, especially for underserved youth. By fostering a true entrepreneurial ecosystem for teens, Jumpstart 2023 has ignited a budding community of ‘Launchies’.
Our Top Teams
Governor's Recognition
First
Feminine hygiene product that detects Cervical Cancer
Second
Public Speaking Coaching
Third
Recyclable Fashion
Honorable Mentions
Parking spot share app
Consultancy App
Nanotube tech to block radiation
Blockchain carbon credits
Lunch Time App
Device for infant safety
Dietary resources address diversity
Our Judges
Suresh Balu
Suresh Balu is the Associate Dean for Innovation and Partnership at the School of Medicine and Program Director for Duke Institute for Health Innovation (DIHI). His extensive experience spans academia, management consulting, venture capital, and private equity. He’s known for advising top companies, global sales channel establishment, and involvement in over 20 patents worldwide.
Courtney High
Courtney High leads marketing and events at Durham’s American Underground, a dynamic hub for startups since 2010, rooted in innovation and civic engagement. Inspired by Durham’s century-old entrepreneurial legacy, the AU is building the counter-story to Silicon Valley — a diverse startup scene that is rich in innovative ideas and deep with civic engagement.
Guy DeCarlucci
Guy DeCarlucci is a seasoned attorney and certified public accountant with over two decades of experience. He holds degrees from Penn State and Duke Law School and specializes in advising clients in the healthcare sector. Additionally, he co-founded a medical billing company that was eventually acquired by a consolidator in the field.
ULaunch hosted a competition for students from select North Carolina public high schools based on the TV show “Shark Tank” from 9:30a.m. to 12:30 p.m. August 18, 2023, at Durham Academy Upper School, Durham, NC.
High School Students were invited to submit applications with their ‘Next big Idea’ to ULaunch.org by August 1st, 2023. A committee reviewed the applications and the top applications were invited to compete. Selected individuals/teams were offered a mentor to help prepare their pitch for Jumpstart, 2023.
Competition Format
Each applicant was given five minutes to pitch their product to “Sharks” (judges), using a required visual component and addressing utility, marketability and cost analyses.
Pitch Q&A
All applicants were prepared to field questions from Sharks, our judges above, such as:
- Who is your primary target audience? What is the gap you are trying to fill with your idea?
- What are the challenges you are facing as you work on your idea and how will you overcome future challenges?
- Who are your competitors? Why will your idea work better?
Outcomes
Winners were provided with seed start funds and ongoing mentorship.
Other Event Details
Breakfast and Lunch was provided at the event.
1st Prize $1500
2nd Prize $1000
3rd Prize $500
7 prizes awarded of $150 to enroll in any business skills related online course or for books.
Teams from across North Carolina participated
REgistration
Registration is now closed!
Looking forward to you joining us for JUMPSTART 2024!