TechXpedition Highlights Innovation Mindset at Babcock Ranch
16 May 2023 | Lisa Hall
BABCOCK RANCH, FL – In the first of what promises to be an annual event, competitors in the 2023 TechXpedition Babcock Ranch Startup Challenge had the opportunity to collaborate with mentors and software developers to build prototypes and business plans to take their ideas for innovative new tech services and products to the marketplace. Organizers, competitors and the army of volunteers who came together for the 52-hour event described the experience as both intense, and inspiring.
“Babcock Ranch’s focus on sustainability, combined with an innovation mindset, creates a ‘living laboratory’ environment for piloting exciting new technologies,” said Lucienne Pears, Vice President of Business and Economic Development at Babcock Ranch. “There was an incredible buzz of energy throughout the weekend, and it was amazing to witness the evolution of ideas into viable product concepts.”
First place in TechXpedition 2023 went to DroneScope AI. The team led by Babcock Ranch resident David Riha was award $10,000 in pre-seed startup funding for an artificial intelligence-based drone roof inspection company.
“TechXpedition was an incredible experience with countless opportunities to learn and grow,” Riya explained. “The judges and mentors were very supportive and provided critical feedback that I used to formulate my business.”
