Girls With Impact Paves the Way for Young Women Entrepreneurs with IGNITE! Venture Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2025
Greenwich, CT – Girls With Impact (GWI), the nation’s leading business education program for young women, is on a mission to equip the next generation of women leaders with the skills, confidence, and experience to succeed. GWI hosted its latest IGNITE! Venture Competition, celebrating the top young entrepreneurs in the country. With winners from Maryland and Georgia, the competition showcased groundbreaking ventures that address critical issues—from maternal healthcare to accessibility in prosthetics and AI-driven community building.
“It’s like a breath of fresh air when you’re able to surround yourself with like-minded individuals who I can now call my friends and colleagues,” said Brianna James, the first-place winner. “I have gained extensive knowledge in entrepreneurship and have a great framework for starting my own company. I’m forever grateful for the 10 weeks I was able to commit to and grow in at GWI.”
Finalists were evaluated on innovation, viability, market potential, and impact, with the top three winners receiving $1,000, $750, and $500 in funding to propel their success forward. The Spring IGNITE! Venture Competition is set to be even sweeter, thanks to Sweet Loren’s—the modern baking company dedicated to inspiring young women to dream big. As a proud sponsor, Sweet Loren’s is helping young women to create bold ideas and fuel the future of women in leadership roles. As GWI continues to expand opportunities for young women leaders, supporters can donate or partner to elevate the future of women in business.
The winners are as follows:
1st Prize: Brianna J. 25, GA | Venture: POWER PT Clinic
An outpatient physical therapy clinic focused on pregnant, postpartum, and antepartum women, providing education, expert care, and support throughout the pregnancy journey. The clinic seeks to reduce maternal mortality rates by offering accessible, evidence-based healthcare information and ensuring that women are heard and respected in their medical decisions.
2nd Prize: Soumya K. 14, MD | Venture: Project Prosthetics
A nonprofit organization leveraging 3D printing technology to create affordable, custom prosthetics and braces. Project Prosthetics is committed to ensuring that every individual—regardless of financial status—has access to life-enhancing mobility solutions that provide both comfort and confidence.
3rd Prize: Anvesha S. 14, MD | Venture: PagePals
An AI-powered platform designed for book lovers to connect, discuss literature, and build friendships. PagePals analyzes reading data to match users with like-minded readers, fostering a community where bookworms can engage in meaningful conversations.
“We’re not just showing young women how to transform their ideas into ventures; we’re equipping them with the business skills to tackle real-world problems and create solutions,” said Jennifer Openshaw, CEO of Girls With Impact. “These winners prove that when young women are given the tools and support they need, they’re unstoppable.”
Whether you donate or partner, you have the power to equip the next wave of young women leaders with the tools they need to thrive. Join us in shaping the future—one venture at a time.
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About Girls With Impact
Girls With Impact, a 501c3, is the nation’s leading business and leadership program for young women 14-24. Featured in the New York Times, the 10-week “mini-MBA” moves women from ideation to a business plan and venture pitch, driving improvements in confidence, leadership, college and career readiness, and professional skills for success.
For more information about Girls With Impact, visit girlswithimpact.org.