Prepify AI and ZoraSafe, Inc. receive ‘Panelists’ Choice’ awards at GatorPitch

UF Innovate’s GatorPitch returned to Miami for its third iteration, presenting a fresh cohort of University of Florida startups that span healthcare, education, finance, national security and artificial intelligence. Six finalists — including three student‑led companies and three UF companies — pitched their ideas to more than 100 attendees from Miami’s investor and entrepreneurial community.

The event was hosted in partnership with Mana Tech and the Venture Mentoring Team (VMT). The six finalists received personalized mentorship from Etienne Gillard, the Head of Ventures at Mana Tech, and the VMT’s network of mentors.

“The six companies selected for the third edition of GatorPitch brought UF's innovative spirit and dynamism to Miami,” said Melissa Kuchma, assistant director of corporate engagement and tech licensing at UF Innovate, which co-hosts the event with international startup hub Mana Tech.

The panel of experts —Tampa Bay Ventures’ Andreas Calabrese, 35 Mules’ Danielle Mousseau, and Acorn Capital Management’s Melissa Strelkauskas — awarded student-led startup Prepify AI, and UF company ZoraSafe Inc. the “Panelists’ Choice” awards for their innovative solutions. Prepify AI’s AI software is designed for job seekers and students who want to practice and improve interview skills. ZoraSafe, Inc., is a mobile-first platform combining real-time scam detection with reward-based learning.

In addition to Prepify AI and ZoraSafe, Inc., the presenters included student-led companies Knead and NeuHawk, as well as UF companies Canaery and Signalic.

Miami is a key startup hub, with its dynamic business environment attracting top talent and investors from around the world. According to the 2025 Global Tech Ecosystem Index by Dealroom, the Miami metro area was ranked 25th globally and 11th in the United States. GatorPitch serves as the bridge between UF innovation and Miami’s investor community, showcasing the university’s top talent and boldest ideas.

Miami continues to be a top choice for UF Innovate’s GatorPitch events. Bilzin Sumberg, Google Fiber, J.P. Morgan, and the Miami DDA sponsored this fall edition of GatorPitch Miami.

In 2026, GatorPitch is expanding. In March, GatorPitch Scripps will debut in Jupiter, Florida — a biotech-focused competition in partnership with The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology. UF Innovate will host the event on Thursday, March 5.