At Fetch, we’re passionate about empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. This year, we hosted our inaugural Defeat the Odds Pitch Competition, bringing together young innovators with fresh ideas and a drive to make a difference. Following a pitch clinic and one-on-one mentorship with Fetch leaders, each finalist will pitch their business idea to our panel of judges: Suffolk University Executive in Residence Sonia Allyene, Dirigo Sea Farm founder Alexa McGovern, Founder and Managing Partner of Rafi Properties Collin Yip and Fetch CEO Wes Schroll.
We’re excited to introduce the finalists who have impressed us with their creativity, passion and determination. Each of these teams has developed a unique solution to real challenges, and we’re eager to see their impact on the world.
Finalist 1: TelePark: Revolutionizing urban parking for a stress-free experience
Vani Mittal, Sarada Koppana and Deepika Bhardwaj, three 16-year-old high school students from Sharon, MA, are transforming urban driving with their app, TelePark. The app directs drivers to available metered spots, streamlining parking with easy “find,” “pay” and “extend” features. TelePark also rewards users with free parking hours through a points system.
TelePark addresses a significant issue: Drivers in cities like Boston spend over 2,000 hours annually searching for parking, contributing to 30% of overall traffic congestion. This inefficiency both delays drivers and has a significant environmental impact.
The TelePark team credits their progress to mentors like Adam Carter of TiE Young Entrepreneurs (TYE) Boston and Paul Crimmins from the Boston Transportation Department, who provided crucial resources and insights. For Vani, Sarada and Deepika, the highlight of this competition was presenting TelePark to seasoned entrepreneurs, which helped them gain valuable feedback and strengthen their startup.
Finalist 2: BUDget: Empowering the next generation with financial literacy
Gabby Lopes, 18, from Plymouth, MA, is aiming to revolutionize early financial literacy with her mobile app: BUDget. The app lets users learn financial skills through gameplay, earning “BudCoin” as they progress. BUDget has already made an impact in Plymouth County classrooms, where it has been introduced to middle school students through immersive workshops.
The app tackles a critical issue: Only 16 of 306 Massachusetts school districts require financial literacy courses for graduation. BUDget offers an engaging way to fill this gap.
Gabby developed BUDget in the Plymouth North Marketing and Engineering Program, with support from team members and sponsors like North Easton Savings Bank, which contributed $1,000 for promotional material.
For Gabby, the networking opportunities provided by the Defeat the Odds competition have been invaluable, helping her connect with industry professionals and build relationships to advance BUDget.
Finalist 3: SafeSip: Innovating Safety with Every Sip
Susanna Bie, Nasiba Alikulova and Emily Zhang, all 17, from Sharon, MA, developed SafeSip, a straw designed to detect substances commonly used in drink spiking, such as GHB, Rohypnol and Ketamine. The straw uses fluorescent dyes that glow upon contact with the pharmaceuticals, providing a clear warning even in dim lighting.
SafeSip addresses a serious problem: 1 in 13 college students has experienced drink tampering, which contributes to sexual assault and human trafficking. SafeSip offers a discreet, dependable solution to this issue.
The team’s success was shaped by their diverse skills and mentorship from experts like Shari Worthington, who taught Susanna how to pitch effectively. For the SafeSip team, developing an idea with the potential to create positive change has been the most rewarding part of this competition.
Finalist 4: Soulstice Shades: Stylish Sunglasses with a Purpose
Eli Hession, 18, from Marshfield, MA, launched Soulstice Shades, a sustainable sunglasses brand aimed at protecting local beaches and environments. Eli’s passion for preserving natural habitats led him to create sunglasses that minimize environmental impact. He partnered with Yeetian Technology to develop sustainable materials, supported by advice from local entrepreneurs.
Finalist 5: GreenBox: Making Gardening Accessible for Everyone
Matthew Bruce, 18, is the creator behind GreenBox, a service that delivers everything customers need for a successful gardening experience – right to their doorstep. GreenBox takes the guesswork out of gardening by providing high-quality seeds, tools and expert advice, tailored to the specific needs and goals of each subscriber.
Subscribers also gain access to an online community of expert gardeners, where they can receive practical tips and advice, ensuring that everyone can achieve their gardening goals. By removing the stress and complexity often associated with gardening, GreenBox is poised to break down barriers and make the joys of gardening accessible to everyone.
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