Two finalists share the 'Big Idea' prize

Williamsport, Pa. — The 2024 PA Wilds Big Idea Contest, a competition for funding of a new business venture, has named its winners.

Two finalists shared the $50,000 prize honor presented at the PA Wilds Big Idea Finale Pitch event was hosted by Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport on June 13.

A total of six finalists presented their business concepts to a panel of judges, all competing for the $50,000 cash prize and the opportunity to win an additional $2,500 in a People’s Choice Award sponsored by the PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship.

Co-winner: Katie Caputo, founder of Roambler (Duboistown, PA)

Roambler is designed to "revolutionize experiential tourism in Pennsylvania by seamlessly connecting adventure seekers with local guides and hosts," according to a release from the contest.

Operating as a marketplace platform, Roambler bridges the gap between service providers and consumers in the peer-to-peer web-based economy, streamlining transactions, managing payments, and offering essential communication tools.

With a scalable platform, Roambler aims to become the go-to destination for unforgettable guided experiences, making it easier than ever for adventurers to explore the Keystone State.

Learn more at: www.roambler.com

Katie Caputo and the team at Roambler also took home the PA Wilds $2,500 People’s Choice Award.

Co-winner: Tim Emerick, founder of Otzzy (Renovo, PA)

A family-run business, Otzzy is an interactive tap-to-play interface app, revolutionizing personalized keepsake gifts.

Otzzy's innovative platform allows users to seamlessly embed cherished videos or heartfelt messages into a range of physical products, bridging the gap between the digital and physical realms.

Learn more at www.otzzy.com

Other finalists included:

Brite-Liter, founded by Benjamin Kranz (Hughesville, PA)

Brite-Liter introduces a revolutionary tool to enhance literacy retention without the use of blue-light emitting screens. Their high-light projector stimulates cognitive responses, increasing engagement and retention, thus offering a valuable resource for parents and educators alike.

Good Things Growing, founded by Joshua Zucal (Emporium, PA)

Good Things Growing focuses on biochar production, presenting a dynamic solution for soil remediation and holistic health enhancement. Their approach harnesses the potential of biochar to sequester carbon, improve soil quality, and promote sustainable agriculture.

Thompson Farms, founded by Rob Thompson (Coudersport, PA)

Thompson Farms proposes a sustainable solution with its wool pellet production, addressing the need for locally sourced, organic soil amendments. Their innovative process promises multiple regenerative byproducts, providing essential nutrients while revitalizing rural economies.

Woodland Biomass Innovations, founded by Luca Pandolf (Wellsboro, PA)

This team aims to transform biomass into sustainable liquid fuels, starting with a facility in Tioga County that would convert woody biomass into 87-octane gasoline that works with existing cars and infrastructure. Their project, currently in the engineering phase, holds promise for reducing carbon emissions while promoting economic development in the region.

John Sider, VP Of Business Development at Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern PA, commented on the Big Idea finalists: "The creativity and dedication demonstrated by all the finalists in this year's PA Wilds Big Idea Contest have been truly inspiring. Each of these entrepreneurs has brought forward innovative solutions that not only address real-world challenges but also highlight the incredible talent and potential within our community. We are proud to support their journey and look forward to seeing their ideas come to life and make a significant impact in our region."