Press release from StartUp Humboldt:

StartUp Humboldt has selected ten finalists from 108 applicants to advance to the final round of its inaugural Competition. These founders will take the stage on April 23rd at The Eureka Theater to pitch their ventures for access to up to $200,000 in milestone-based funding.

Six ventures have advanced as finalists in the competition’s Scale Venture track, competing for access to $175,000 in milestone-based funding. Together, they reflect both the evolution of Humboldt’s longstanding industries and a new wave of ambitious ventures that build on regional strengths while broadening what the North Coast is known for.

  • DERA Analytics — a software platform that helps organizations maximize the value of clean energy assets like solar, batteries, and EV fleets.
  • GridIQ — smart power line monitoring systems designed to reduce wildfire risk and improve grid reliability.
  • Jersey Scoops — a pasture-to-pint, lactose-free ice cream producer scaling value-added dairy production.
  • Pepper Inflatable Technologies — next-generation inflatable rescue craft built on patent-protected technology.
  • Rhizome Wellness Collective — an LGBTQ2S+-focused mental health collective increasing access to affirming care while training and employing local clinicians.
  • Sunken Seaweed — regenerative seaweed farming and processing advancing ocean-based food production.

Four ventures have advanced as finalists in the competition’s microventure track, competing for two awards totaling $25,000 in milestone-based funding and focused on building sustainable, locally-rooted businesses with clear pathways for community impact:

  • ForestScapes — a wildfire mitigation and forest health company reducing hazardous vegetation and lowering wildfire risk across the region.
  • GroundedAI — an advisory and strategy firm helping small businesses adopt AI in practical, responsible ways.
  • LAF Systems — a modular system converting organic food waste into nutrient-rich soil products, supporting a local circular economy.
  • Throat Punch Ice Cream — a bold craft ice cream brand building a distinctive retail presence through creative flavors and local partnerships.

Finalists will be evaluated on desirability, feasibility, and viability, along with community impact and storytelling during their final presentations. Each finalist has completed an intensive education and mentorship phase, receiving expert instruction in financial modeling, business model iteration, pitch development and target market analysis. Through one-on-one advising with the North Coast SBDC, Lost Coast Ventures, BlueTechValley, and the Institute for Entrepreneurship Education, founders have strengthened their readiness to grow, create jobs and attract investment.

The Final Pitch Event on Thursday, April 23rd will serve as both a competition and a community celebration of regional entrepreneurship. Finalists will present before a distinguished panel of judges and a live audience for access to $200,000 in milestone-based funding. Award recipients will be announced that evening.

The judging panel represents business expertise, entrepreneurship, and regional economic development, and includes, among others, Clair Whitmer, Deputy Director of CalOSBA; Matt Welton, former Senior Director of Talent Acquisition at Adidas; Jason Ramos, Tribal Chairperson of Blue Lake Rancheria; AJ Herrera, VP of Corporate Marketing at Cloudflare; and Jennifer Budwig, Senior Vice President and COO of Redwood Capital Bank.

In addition to live pitches from finalists, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with semifinalists and select applicants through a curated vendor fair showcasing local ventures. The evening will also feature appetizers from Lost Coast Catering and Cypress Grove, and a signature cocktail in partnership with Humboldt Distillery.

“What stands out most is the quality, commitment, and diversity of these founders. This cohort represents a powerful reflection of what’s possible in this region. They’re not just innovating—they’re building companies with real potential to shape the region’s future,” said Dan Phillips, Humboldt local, former CTO of Hulu, and co-founder of Lost Coast Ventures, a partner in this initiative. “This is going to be an exciting finale and a celebration of what’s possible when the North Coast invests in its own people and ideas.”

The free public event begins at 5:30pm at the historic Eureka Theater. Coast Central Credit Union is the Titan Sponsor of the program. Community members are encouraged to attend, support local founders, and be part of an evening that highlights the future of innovation in far Northern California. 

To learn more about the event and reserve your seat at this link.