12 Startups Chosen for University of Tampa’s Exclusive Incubator Cohort

The John P. Lowth Entrepreneurship Center at the University of Tampa’s Sykes College of Business has unveiled the 2024-25 Spartan Incubator Cohort. This prestigious program is designed to nurture innovative ideas from recent graduates and early-stage community businesses, transforming them into successful ventures. The cohort is set to begin on August 20th.

“The level of innovation and drive we’ve observed during the selection process is truly inspiring,” said Josh Ray, a new venture adviser. “I’m eager to collaborate with these founders as they tackle the challenges and celebrate the victories of building their businesses.”

The program also offers a unique “live lab” environment, allowing participants to refine their ideas and develop their ventures in a supportive setting.

“The Spartan Incubator represents a cornerstone of our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship at the University of Tampa,” remarked Rebecca White, Director of the Lowth Entrepreneurship Center. “This initiative not only equips our founders with crucial resources and mentorship but also emphasizes the development of an entrepreneurial mindset — a key to long-term success.”

This year, the program introduced a fresh twist inspired by the popular television show “The Voice.” Applicants pitched their ideas in five-minute presentations, followed by a Q&A session with mentor coaches. Twelve founders were chosen based on their potential to drive innovation and make a significant impact on the entrepreneurial landscape.

The 2024-25 Spartan Incubator Cohort:

• Salvator DeBenedetto ’24 and Owen Cascio ’24 – PartPal, an online platform for finding affordable car parts and auto repair services
• Adrienne Falcone Godsell – The Food Whisperer, a video series teaching quick meal preparation
• Jamilet Figueroa – Habla y Lenguaje, a bilingual speech therapy app available in English and Spanish
• Kyle Franklin – MoshoBoga, an app recommending streaming shows based on friends’ preferences
• Patrick Istefanidis M.S. ’24 and Kathleen Dorta – Timeless Tapes, a service converting old media memories to digital formats
• Rachael Kierych – Versus, legal software featuring advanced security measures
• Terrance King – Clean Box, an automated bathing solution for individuals requiring assistance
• Sarah Krolik ’20, M.A. ’23 – You Plan, a customizable time-management tool
• Martin Lakovic ’22 and Stevo Lugonja – Healthy Bite Supplements, wellness products for pets
• Jonathan Locust Jr. – Conscirise, a platform for spiritual wellness and consciousness
• Terry Perenich and Mohammad Ali – Tripsora, an app for creating and managing trip itineraries and bookings
• Stephanie Philpot – Eczema Sample Store, a mail-delivery service for trying specialized skincare products

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