HARRISBURG, PA — The Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) at Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) has named the winners of the 2026 launchU Student Startup Competition. After a spirited Grand Finale event in May, CIE and HU together recognized a world-class slate of student-led ventures and awarded seed money to the top-performing teams. This is the seventh year for the program.
What Is launchU?
Now an international platform drawing participants from across the United States and the globe, launchU is the CIE’s flagship initiative: a “Shark Tank”-style competition that guides high school and undergraduate students through a five-week innovation sprint alongside industry mentors. The experience culminates in live pitches to a panel of investors and executives. This year’s finale featured 10 finalist teams: five high schools and five universities.
A panel of judges selected the winners: William Alexander, a faculty member at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania; Danny Fisher, Chief Technology Officer of West Shore Home; and Bry Pardoe, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Chief Information Officer.
“It was great to be a part of this event!” said Pardoe. “The quality of the ideas and professionalism of the students was incredibly impressive. It gives me hope that this next generation of dreamers can help solve some of our most challenging problems.”
2026 launchU Winners
Best Overall
Michigan State University: BioMex
BioMex is a Michigan State University team developing next-generation surgical biomaterials designed to improve precision, stability, and patient outcomes. Led by Tanvi Gadamsetti and Madhav Aggarwal, the team received $3,500 and an invitation to incubate its business through HU’s Innovation Lab.
Best in College
Washington State University: SORVY
SORVY is a Washington State University venture that upcycles invasive starfish into pH-stabilizing mineral cartridges for the aquarium industry. Founded by Austin Lee and Junseop Lim, the team received $2,500 in seed money.
Best in High School
Hempfield High School: Tech Buddies
Tech Buddies is a Hempfield High School social enterprise that delivers paid, in-person technology coaching for senior citizens through trained high school student mentors. Founded by Medha Lalani and Reshma Lalani, the team received $2,500.
Audience Favorite
Canyon Crest Academy: Layn
Layn is the name of Canyon Crest Academy’s bike-safety app that turns a teen’s smartphone into a crash-detection and ride-monitoring system using built-in GPS, cameras, and artificial intelligence. Created by Charlie Lowe, Brandon Lee, and Rohan Hunjan, the team received $500.
“Judging the launchU Student Startup Challenge was, in fact, a real challenge,” said William Alexander, a faculty member at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a guest judge for launchU 2026. “All the entries were worthy of recognition for their creativity and ability to satisfy the needs of a target market. It was a personal pleasure to be able to interact with such talented young people who are dedicated to making our future a bright one.”
What’s Next for the CIE at Harrisburg University?
As in years past, the 2026 competition reflects a broader vision for the CIE in the region.
“The Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Harrisburg University is evolving beyond a traditional university startup center into a regional innovation engine that connects entrepreneurship, workforce development, applied research, corporate innovation, and emerging technologies,” said Michael Hughes, Senior Development Manager for the CIE.
Hughes points to AI as a defining priority ahead. “Artificial Intelligence will become a major strategic focus of the CIE,” he said. “Building on the momentum of executive AI workshops, CEO forums, and practical AI programming, the CIE is expanding into AI strategy consulting, workforce training, applied implementation labs, and industry-focused innovation initiatives.
“We invite all those out there in the Commonwealth who have a solid idea for a business venture. This region needs big ideas and those with the courage to see them through to the finish line. The CIE will help you get there. And if you know any awesome high schoolers or university students with thoughtful concepts for inventions or business models, let them know about us. It’s never too early to start planning for the next launchU!”
Visit HarrisburgU.edu to learn more about the CIE, launchU, and how you can get involved.
# # #
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Director of Communications for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
# # #
