A data analytics platform took home the inaugural Johnny Flynn Paladin Pitch Award at the fourth annual Paladin Pitch Competition on April 13.
The platform, dotflo, was created by Furman University junior Spencer Tate and his business partner, Nemath Ahmed of Georgia Tech, and uses artificial intelligence to leverage existing data at mid-size companies to help businesses to make decisions.
“With our platform, companies can use our AI-powered tools that produce insights based on the data they give us and the problem they’re trying to solve,” said Tate. “And they don’t have to hire a specialized team of data analysts to accomplish that.”
In addition to beating out 50 other ventures, Tate and Ahmed took home a $10,000 prize. The duo, along with three other Furman finalists, received $500 and a spot at The Hill Institute’s 10-week GVL Starts program.
The other three finalists included:
- Sophomore Ivan Aagyaakwah – College Coach, a way to connect college and professional athletes with aspiring players through individualized coaching.
- Senior Patrick Flagler – BioLink, a concept that encourages eco-friendly practices on college campuses and beyond through partnerships with corporations.
- Junior Aubrey Zoodsma – Astrea LLC, a company that makes custom tennis bracelets that reflect a sorority’s color scheme.