The Coachella Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP), Desert Business Association (DBA), and Riverside County Office of Economic Development recently concluded the 7th Annual Coachella Valley Fast Pitch event as part of Riverside County Innovation Month. Held in Cathedral City Council Chambers on Friday, April 12, 2024, the event showcased local entrepreneurs and innovators aiming to make a mark in the region's business landscape.
Laura James, CVEP’s Interim CEO, emphasized the significance of the competition by stating, "This competition is designed to highlight the amazing innovators in our region." The event aimed to promote the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation thriving in the Coachella Valley.
One of the standout winners of the competition was Rossana Jeran, CEO of Hello Computer, Inc., who secured the first-place position. Jeran expressed her excitement by saying, “What a thrill and honor to win 1st Place in the Coachella Valley Fast Pitch! Fueled by my passion for technology and social impact, the idea of advancing to the county competition propels me forward with determination and purpose.”
Additionally, Prema Walker, founder of Prema’s Permaculture and Composting, garnered the Audience Favorite Award for her sustainable agriculture practices. The event also saw Kyle Aquino, CEO of NVIS.AI, clinch the second-place position for his cybersecurity company's innovative concept.
The panel of judges for this year's competition included Jeffrey Bernstein, Mayor of Palm Springs; Todd Hooks, Director of Economic Development, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians; and Jake Wuest, Market President, FirstBank. The esteemed judges played a vital role in evaluating the pitches and selecting the winners.
The success of the event was further supported by sponsors such as BCreative LLC, Brumer Law Group, Hunter|Johnsen, Roadrunner Print and Ship, and Desert Hand Car Wash Cathedral City, along with promotional partners like Riverside County Office of Economic Development and Desert Business Association.
The winners of the Coachella Valley Fast Pitch will now advance to the Riverside County Fast Pitch Finale, scheduled to take place on Thursday, April 30, 2024, in Riverside. This event serves as an opportunity for the winners to represent the innovative startup ecosystem of the Coachella Valley on a broader county-wide platform.