FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 15, 2025 – Start Peninsula continued its 2025 season with the second Micro Pitch event on May 14, where ten visionary founders pitched their startups to a distinguished panel of judges. After an evening of compelling business ideas, three standout ventures were selected to advance to the Championship Pitch in November for a chance to win $5,000 in funding.

The winners of the second Micro Pitch of 2025 are:

Keenan Smith – Metaclick
Metaclick is a business solutions platform designed to help companies harness the power of artificial intelligence to increase user engagement, improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and make data-informed strategic decisions. The platform supports businesses in aligning AI-driven action with targeted outcomes and objectives.
Malena Applewhite – Haus of Vibes DIY
Haus of Vibes DIY is a modern, hands-on creativity studio where guests “Craft Their Own Vibe” by creating custom beauty products, sensory items, and personalized gifts in a vibrant, bar-style setting. Offering daily sessions, private parties, and mobile workshops, the business blends wellness, artistry, and experiential retail, meeting the demand for unique and scalable self-care experiences.
Lori Marlow – Marlow Royale
Marlow Royale has developed a specialized lash kit designed to meet military standards, enabling contract opportunities with the armed forces. The kit also includes enough lashes to be sold to makeup artists, offering both utility and a revenue-generating opportunity for entrepreneurs in the beauty space.
Distinguished Judges Panel
The event featured a respected panel of judges who brought their deep experience in entrepreneurship, investment, and business development:

 

Quote from Leadership
“This is year 14 of Start Peninsula, and it is the idea validation platform for the region,” said Tim Ryan, Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads. “When you see it first hand, it’s hard not to be inspired.”
The Road to the Championship Pitch
These three finalists will join others from across the 2025 season to compete in the Championship Pitch this November, where they’ll vie for a $5,000 prize and unlock access to regional resources to accelerate their growth.
About Start Peninsula
Hosted by the City of Hampton in partnership with Newport News, Williamsburg, Poquoson, and the counties of James City and York, Start Peninsula has championed innovation in the region since 2012. The initiative provides mentorship, funding access, and exposure to help early-stage businesses succeed.

For more information about Start Peninsula or to apply for upcoming pitch events, visit https://www.startpeninsula.com.