Atlanta-based Geekz Ventures, a nonprofit virtual pre-accelerator supporting underestimated entrepreneurs, has wrapped up its latest GROWTH program with an impressive cohort of 10 tech-enabled startups.
Selected from a competitive national applicant pool, these early-stage companies span industries like fintech, SaaS, media, entertainment, and edtech, many focusing on culturally relevant solutions for diverse communities.
Geekz Ventures Introduces Start-Ups From Its GROWTH Program
The 10-week program, backed by the Techstars Foundation, provided participants with equity-free grants, expert mentorship, hands-on training, and sessions on everything from MVP development and customer discovery to fundraising and founder well-being. The aim is to make these companies into viable players of the Atlanta tech scene and beyond.
“This year’s cohort is one of the most innovative and imaginative groups I’ve ever worked with,” said Program Manager Brandon Wilkins. “Their ideas are bold, and they’re poised to make real impact.”
Executive Director Kunbi Tinuoye added, “We have an outstanding cohort this year. Our founders are now better equipped to scale their ventures.”
Mentors included industry leaders like serial entrepreneur Mykolas Rambus, media executive Alex Hughes, and former Techstars MD Gary Stewart, with special sessions on pitch storytelling and sustainable leadership.
Meet the 2025 Cohort:
- Troodie (Founder: Taylor Davis) – AI-powered platform helping restaurants grow through creator-monetized recommendations and community-driven dining discovery.
- Beebz (Founder: Habeeb Ayangbade) – Video-first marketplace for booking local businesses, targeted at Gen Z users who prefer short-form videos over text reviews.
- Black Launch (Founder: Titus Colloway) – Professional networking platform built for Black professionals, creators, and entrepreneurs to foster connections and economic mobility.
- PaintLabs (known as PaintCo) (Founder: SueAnn Hollowell) – High-speed printed body art technology revolutionizing fan engagement at sports venues.
- ConcordeApp (Founder: Chaste Christopher Inegbedio) – B2B SaaS tool turning networking into a data-driven process for measurable business growth.
- Runwei (Founder: Aixa Elgazwe) – Multilingual chat platform simplifying access to grants and non-dilutive funding for entrepreneurs.
- CloutBank (Founder: Todd Sheridan) – AI-native credit infrastructure helping digital creators build credit based on online income.
- Fanatech (Founder: Jonathan Makonnen) – All-in-one platform connecting athletes, teams, and fans for deeper engagement and monetization.
- Tykoon AI (Founder: Peter Lwuh) – NIL platform using AI to help student-athletes build and monetize their personal brands.
- Budget University (Founder: Shelby Patrice) – Edtech platform offering accredited financial literacy courses for middle/high school students and underserved communities.
Final Word
Your entry way into Atlanta’s tech industry has never been easier than today. Companies like Geekz Ventures continue to strengthen Atlanta’s reputation as a hub for diverse tech innovation, empowering founders often overlooked by traditional ecosystems.
As these startups move forward, they’re positioned to tackle market gaps and drive economic impact.
Stay tuned for updates on their progress and potential future funding rounds.
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