September 9, 2025 · eBridge Center, Brownsville
Eight companies from the AdvanceUp Accelerator, run with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center, pitched live on the eBridge Center stage, with the audience voting for a Community Choice winner.
The startups
Chariot360
Rigoberto Lozano, Founder
Upright, eco-friendly mobility device useful for accessibility, warehouses, and security.
Company profile
DiaBuddy
Alan Salinas, Founder
All-in-one app that simplifies diabetes tracking, reporting, and care organization.
Company profile
Dot
Francisco Orta Bazán, Founder
Hardware-free shuttle tracking: drivers’ phones act as live GPS, with a rider app for real-time info and planned AI features.
Company profile
Fast Port
Steve Perez, Founder
AI receptionist for small businesses that handles calls, appointments, payments, and follow-up.
Company profile
Noah’s Ark
Erika Mazzola, Founder
Integrated pet-care platform for lost-pet recovery, wellness guidance, and community support.
Company profile
Shape Cards
Sebastian Melendez, Founder
Digital business cards with QR and wallet integrations for instant, error-free sharing.
Company profile
Space Ocean Corp
Paul Mamakos, Founder
A satellite tracking system for water logistics in space, connecting ocean resources to the needs of space corporations.
Company profile
Urban Plants
Ciara Perez / Douglas Best, Founder
A unique, electricity-free vertical hydroponics system that grows food in simple environments, built for sustainability and accessibility.
Company profile
Judges
- Ashutosh Panpalia, Zoho Technologies
- Dr. Sylvia Robles, UTRGV
- Mayra Delgado, NASA
Pitch videos
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ny3O4V_rAxg
Photos
Want to pitch at the next one? See the current Startup Texas tracks and apply.