New pitch event to award $1M in funding to Lowcountry startups

Beemok Capital, known best for its Beemok Hospitality Collection, has a new venture aimed to help finance local startups in the Lowcountry.

Beemok Catalyst, after opening applications July 29, announced its first business pitch competition. According to a news release, the company will host a live event Nov. 8 to award up to $1 million of potential funding. 

In addition to the funds generated by Beemok, the open-to-the-public event also will provide entrepreneurs with exposure, opportunities to connect with investors and options for growth, according to the news release. 

“So much of what we’re passionate about at Beemok is creating channels of opportunity in our community that don’t otherwise exist,” Ben Navarro, co-founder of Beemok, said in the release. “There is so much talent in our region, but even the best ideas and founders need support, and we want to keep the next generation of great ideas here.  I want Catalyst to become a fun and engaging way to connect and support our existing entrepreneurial community while also inspiring the next era of builders and founders.” 

Finalists from the applications, which close Sept. 30, will pitch their ventures to a panel at the event. According to the release, Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester county early-stage startups are invited to submit applications. There will be a category for current students. 

The networking event will be held at Terminal Building at Union Pier, which was recently purchased by Navarro to be developed into multiple community projects.  

Click here to apply.