South Asian Business Council of Virginia Hosts Startup Pitch Competition 

The South Asian Business Council of Virginia (SABCVA) hosted a Startup Pitch Competition on March 29, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Dulles, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and business leaders for a high-impact evening of innovation and opportunity.

The event featured five emerging startups presenting their ventures before a distinguished panel of judges and a live audience of hundreds, including elected officials, CEOs, and community leaders.

Among the notable attendees were Congressman Suhas Subramanyam, State Senator Kannan Srinivasan, Delegate Atoosa Reaser, and Loudoun County Treasurer Henry Eickelberg, reflecting the growing importance of entrepreneurship and small business development within the region, according

Pitch Competition Winners

After a competitive round of presentations and deliberations, the winners were announced:

• 1st Place: Titilope Olotu — PADI
• 2nd Place: Manvender Singh — WAKAO App
• 3rd Place: Naina Zaman — NanTech

Additional participants included Mydeen Yussouf (Qynmic.AI) and Swapna (Orion Data Engine), both of whom received strong recognition from the judges for their innovation and potential.

The competition was judged by Mel Ghani, Stevie Jones, Ranbir Bhutani, Kumail Khas, and Sandra McCutcheon, and moderated by former Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura.

“This is like a ‘Desi Shark Tank’—the level of talent, innovation, and energy we saw today is truly inspiring,” said Segura during the event.

The judging panel collectively praised SABCVA’s efforts in building a strong entrepreneurial platform:

“We sincerely thank SABCVA for creating such a meaningful and impactful platform for entrepreneurs,” said judges Mel Ghani, Stevie Jones, Ranbir Bhutani, Kumail Khas, and Sandra McCutcheon in a joint statement. “What we witnessed was more than a competition—it was a powerful display of innovation, resilience, and community support. The quality of ideas and talent was exceptional, and initiatives like this are critical to strengthening our startup ecosystem.”

Judge Sandra McCutcheon further emphasized continued support for entrepreneurs, stating, “We are committed to supporting not just the winners, but every entrepreneur who participated in this competition.”

Building a Stronger Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

SABCVA leaders highlighted that the pitch competition is part of a broader effort to create meaningful pathways for entrepreneurs by connecting them with investors, mentorship opportunities, and access to capital.

Upcoming initiatives announced at the event include:

• AI and Cybersecurity Internship Programs
• Hackathons and Innovation Challenges
• Women Empowerment Workshops
• College Leadership and Public Speaking Programs
• Business Workshops focused on funding, grants, and federal contracting

“These initiatives are designed to equip the next generation with the tools, skills, and connections needed to succeed in today’s economy,” SABCVA leadership stated.

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