Texas Border Business
McAllen, TX — The McAllen Chamber of Commerce awarded $45,000 to five projects during their fifth round of Innovation Grant Awards.
The award is a competitive process where a panel of regional business leaders evaluates each proposal from the perspective of a venture capitalist.
The panel makes a decision based on the viability and maturity of the project and the potential for a positive economic impact in the McAllen area. The award monies must be used to offset innovation expenses such as patenting, marketing and prototype expenses experienced by many startup companies.
The five projects awarded were to: Engineering Technologies Group Weightlifting Accessory, led by Dario Samuel Olivarez, for an upgrade to a free weight lifting utility device. They were awarded $10,000 for legal fees to secure the intellectual property and prototype development.
The Unmanned Polymobile Vehicle led by Roger Maxim Pecina, for an innovative unmanned vehicle capable of ground and aerial mobility. He was awarded $10,000 for product development and intellectual property.
In The Weeds Natural Skin Care, led by Lisa “Lika” Torline, for developing a line of skin care products consisting of all natural and organic ingredients. They were awarded $5,000 for Website, brand design, and Intellectual Property needs.
Bee Shield, led by Ludivina Avila, for a product to protect people from bee attacks. She was awarded $10,000 in legal fees to protect the intellectual property and develop the project.
The Scanning Game, led by David Watkins, for a smartphone application that makes networking at trade shows and mixers easier and more fun. He was awarded $10,000 in legal fees to protect the intellectual property and development of the project.
“The Innovation grants are intended to aid entrepreneurs in moving their project to a more tangible stage,” said Steve Ahlenius, president and CEO of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. Ahlenius added that In turn, the McAllen area develops a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem and stimulates innovative new industries in the McAllen area. TBB
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