The Brooklyn Public Library awarded over $40,000 to emerging entrepreneurs during the 22nd annual PowerUP Business Plan Competition, held last week. The competition, which aims to support local businesses, saw a significant participation of first-time entrepreneurs, with over 465 entries submitted. The event provided a platform for innovative ideas, showcasing a range of business concepts from art education to technology-driven solutions.
In a highlight of the evening, Mariana Silfa claimed the $20,000 grand prize for her venture, Viva Art Studio. This family-owned establishment focuses on bilingual art education and serves the Brooklyn community. The award was presented by Dime Community Bank, the lead sponsor of the event, which has consistently supported the library’s initiatives to foster small business growth.
Steve Miley, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Dime Community Bank, expressed his pride in the partnership: “For over 160 years, Dime has partnered with great organizations like Brooklyn Public Library to support the communities of New York. We believe that this program shines a light on the next generation of great business leaders and paves the way to an opportunity for success.”
The second place award of $10,000 went to Maud and Ioan Delice for their product, Pikliz Please, a cabbage-based vegetable relish inspired by Haitian culinary traditions. Karma Masselli secured third place and $5,000 for her venture, Shorts Movie Theater, dedicated to showcasing both new and classic short films.
Since its inception in 2003, the PowerUP competition has provided over $600,000 in funding to more than 200 entrepreneurs. Notable businesses that have benefited from this initiative include Bogota Latin Bistro, Greenlight Bookstore, and Tinsel Experiential Design, which has evolved into a multimillion-dollar enterprise.
The judging panel this year consisted of experienced business owners, nonprofit leaders, and academics who evaluated the diverse range of ideas presented. Finalists included concepts from various sectors, such as art education, gaming-based learning, and AI-driven tools designed for immigrant communities.
In addition to the main awards, five participants received merit awards of $1,000 each in seed funding. The audience had an opportunity to vote for their favorite pitch, leading to Catrina Bowen winning the audience choice award for her company, ProManage Services, which specializes in managing construction documentation. Other merit award recipients included:
– Ramon Almodovar for Xmigra, an AI-powered platform assisting immigrants.
– Jesse Aujero for Brooklearners, an educational program using Minecraft as a learning tool.
– Tirrell Barronette for Reciboost, an e-commerce platform converting receipts into personalized sales channels.
– Maya Williams for Dimensional Dance Collective, a training hub for young dancers.
All participants benefited from free classes on essential business skills, including marketing, finance, and resource utilization, along with personalized support in developing their business plans.
Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library, praised the finalists for their creativity and resilience: “This year’s PowerUP finalists demonstrated imagination and fortitude in equal measure: from an art studio to a Minecraft club and an AI-based app to help new immigrants.”
The success of the PowerUP Business Plan Competition reflects the ongoing support from various sponsors, including Dime Community Bank, Citizens, Data Axle Reference Solutions, and Ridgewood Savings Bank, all committed to nurturing entrepreneurship in Brooklyn.
