NFTE Announces Winners of $12,000 in Founders Forum Showcase Prizes

Christopher Avolio wins $7,000 for bike lock holder product

NEW YORK, March 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), a global education nonprofit that ignites the entrepreneurial mindset in the next generation of diverse leaders, announces the winners of this year's Founders Forum Showcase, presented by the Citi Foundation, EY, Intuit, MetLife Foundation, and SAP.

Founders of three viable businesses presented their best investment pitches on March 15, contending for a portion of a $12,000 capital investment pool. Finalist Christopher Avolio, founder of Huldit, bested the competition to win $7,000 toward purchasing inventory and marketing his company's U-lock holder for bikes. Kailyn, Kasi and Kehli Cage of Press Book & Wine Company earned $3,500 for their full-service café and workspace business. Hariella Lawson-Hogban won $1,500 for Mö'dji, a docu-series designed to capture the migrant experience. The cohort launched with 23 participants.

"I am deeply impressed by the drive and creativity of the 50 alumni who have participated in our Founders Forum since its inception three years ago," said Dr. J.D. LaRock, president and CEO of NFTE. "Why would a founder with a Ph.D., MBA, law degree or growing business remain involved in NFTE? It's simple. They're supported by a professional network—a community of people who think like entrepreneurs and are driven by milestones. This community taps into NFTE's arc of support as they progress through each stage of business development and growth. You can't get that from Googling 'how to start a business.'"

NFTE's Founders Forum allows alumni entrepreneurs to prepare their launch-ready or operational businesses for investment. Judges for this year's showcase were Srinivas Rapthadu of SAP; Nit Reeder of EY Entrepreneurs Action Network; and NFTE Class of 2000 alumnus Preet Sabharwal of SAB Group.

"Since November, this cohort of alumni has taken an investment readiness assessment, prepared pitches and worked with advisors to fine-tune investment briefs and business plans," said Kene Turner, Director of NFTE's postsecondary and alumni programs. "Their work culminated in the showcase – an opportunity to connect directly with potential investors."

NFTE (nfte.com) ignites the entrepreneurial mindset with unique learning experiences that empower students to own their futures. A global nonprofit founded in 1987, NFTE provides high-quality entrepreneurship education to middle school, high school and postsecondary students in under-resourced communities.

Media may contact Denise Berkhalter at 917-281-4362 or [email protected].

SOURCE NFTE