Reflecting on BUILDFest Southwestern PA
The 3rd Annual Southwestern PA Youth Pitch Competition, hosted by BUILDFest SWPA, took place on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:30 PM EST at the Energy Innovation Center. This inspiring event marked a celebration of 25 years of BUILDing legacy and impact, highlighting the incredible journey of BUILD since its inception in the Bay Area in 1999 and its expansion to Pittsburgh in 2021.
The event commenced with an opening reception that featured a gallery walk showcasing the innovative ideas of our Semi-Finalists. This provided attendees with a chance to engage directly with the young entrepreneurs and explore their projects up close. Semi-Finalist Presenters included:
Peaceful State; McKeesport Senior High School
T.S.Z. 3.6.0. Vision; Monessen Junior-Senior High School
Preventors; Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy
Celebrating Student Entrepreneurs
Highlights
BUILDFest SWPA 2024
After a series of compelling presentations, the top prize was awarded to Team Food Preservers from Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy for their groundbreaking pitch on an innovative food preservation system that can be inserted into fridges and extend the life of fresh foods in any household. Their in-depth research and thorough business plan impressed the judges and secured their spot as the 2024 Southwestern PA Youth Pitch Champions.
Also honored during the event was Melissa Selko, Business education teacher at Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy, who received the BNY Mellon Leadership Award for outstanding commitment to education. The event underscored the remarkable talent and creativity of the youth in our community, as well as the dedication of BUILD Pittsburgh’s teachers. It was a true celebration of young entrepreneurs who are poised to make a significant impact in their respective fields.
Team Food Preservers
Their groundbreaking pitch introduced an innovative food preservation system designed to be inserted into refrigerators, effectively extending the lifespan of fresh foods in any household.
Team Drake
Team Drake’s Animation from Penn Hills Charter School of Entrepreneurship took 2nd place with their AI assistant for animators
Team Zapped
3rd place was Team Zapped from Northgate Senior High School’s alarm clock watch using e-stim technology.
