startGNV Announces Finalists for the Innovation Ecosystem Awards in Partnership with Cox Business for the upcoming CelebrateGNV event at the Cade Museum

Press release from startGNV

In 2021, startGNV, a local nonprofit with a mission to grow the innovation ecosystem of Greater Gainesville, announced the return of their popular “CelebrateGNV” event to the Cade Museum on January 27th, 2022. In partnership with Cox Business, this year’s CelebrateGNV event will also feature the debut of the Innovation Ecosystem Awards.

“The return of CelebrateGNV to the Cade Museum, and the addition of these awards, mirrors the return of community momentum and energy across our innovation ecosystem,” said James Gibson, co-founder of Quottly and Board President of startGNV.

Dozens of nominations came in for each of the 6 award categories, and the judges selected 3 finalists per category. The winner in each category will be announced at the event on January 27, 2022.

Here are the finalists:

Startup Mentor of the Year Finalists:
Eric Buffkin, Pablo Casilimas and Justis Mendez (tie), and Stephanie Warrington

Professional Mentor of the Year Finalists:
Bob DeHoff, Lane Holcombe, and Karl LaPan

Ecosystem Hidden Gem Finalists:
Jennifer Harrell, Blythe Karow, and John Spence

Tech Employer of the Year Finalists:
Feathr, IC2, and Tower Hill Insurance Group

Community Impact Company of the Year Finalists:
Abilitaire, Infotech, and Opie Software

Rising Star Startup of the Year Finalists:
Abilitaire, Agriculture Intelligence Inc., and Monochronicle