What is Pitchfest 2024?
Welcome to Pitchfest 2024, a cutting-edge virtual conference open to high school students that encourages participants to delve into emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain while showcasing their innovative ideas. Immerse yourself in a unique pitch competition, guided by insights from distinguished speakers, including a UPenn Wharton professor, multi-million dollar startup CEO, and Salesforce CTO. Seize the opportunity to explore creative solutions and compete for a prize pool of $2000 to advance the development of your groundbreaking innovations. Plus, registration is free!
Event details will be sent through email after registration. Join our Discord in the meantime and engage with our community!
Timeline
Pacific Standard Time (GMT-8)
Registration opens
January 2
Registration closes
January 17 @ 11:59 PM
Opening ceremony + prompt released
January 19 @ 5:30 PM
Workshops begin + pitch preparation
January 20 all-day
Pitch presentations + awards
January 21 @ 9:00 AM
Cash prizes will be split amongst team members and can be replaced by an equal-value donation to a charity of their choice.
$600
$1000
$400
About the Speakers
Charlie Isaacs
CTO of Customer Connection, IoT at Salesforce
Charlie Isaacs, CTO of Customer Connection at Salesforce, is a seasoned tech leader with a strong focus on customer success. His expertise in IoT, Cloud Computing, and CRM has been instrumental in driving digital transformation for businesses. Beyond his executive role, Charlie actively contributes to the tech community, sharing valuable knowledge and insights. Charlie Isaacs is welcomed as a tech visionary contributing to the future of customer connection and digital transformation.
Kartik Hosanagar
Professor of Technology and Marketing at UPenn Wharton
Professor Kartik Hosanagar is a distinguished expert in digital business, holding the title of John C. Hower Professor of Technology and Digital Business at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. His groundbreaking research focuses on the profound impact of analytics and algorithms on consumers and society, solidifying his status as a leading voice in the digital economy. In addition to his academic achievements, Professor Hosanagar co-founded Yodle Inc., a significant player in the industry, showcasing his entrepreneurial prowess. With a robust educational background from BITS and Carnegie Mellon University, Professor Hosanagar represents a fusion of academic excellence and entrepreneurial acumen.
Dirk Lueth
CEO at Upland and Co-founder of OMA3
Dirk Lueth, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Uplandme, Inc., operates at the forefront of Silicon Valley as a seasoned entrepreneur and recognized authority in blockchain technology. Serving as the chairman of the Open Metaverse Alliance for Web3 (OMA3), Dirk's influence extends far into the Metaverse. His insights have been shared at prestigious events, including the World Economic Forum in Davos 2023 and the Economist Metaverse Summit in CA, 2022. Dirk Lueth is welcomed as a visionary shaping the future of the digital economy and the Metaverse.
Jeremy Dela Rosa
CEO of a Stealth AI/Web3 Startup, Executive Coach, Writer
Jeremy Dela Rosa, Founder and CEO of multiple AI/Web 3 companies, brings two decades of experience, including a significant tenure at Blizzard, to the tech and gaming industry. His innovative approach is evident in Leyline, a blockchain company rewarding users for charitable deeds with in-game items and other goods. Jeremy Dela Rosa emerges as a trailblazer shaping the future of technology, gaming, and social impact.
Ron Hammond
Director of Governmental Relations at the Blockchain Association
Ron Hammond represents the Blockchain Association on Capitol Hill as the Director of Government Relations. Ron’s background in crafting a bipartisan crypto regulatory framework via legislation dates back to 2016 when he served as the Financial Services Policy Lead for Rep. Warren Davidson (OH-8). During Ron’s five years on Capitol Hill, he authored several pieces of legislation including the Token Taxonomy Act, the Federal Reserve Regulatory Oversight Act, and the Derivatives Fairness Act. Before coming to Capitol Hill, he was the campaign manager for three successful Texas State Senate races.