StartUp Humboldt: Ten Finalists Set to Compete for $200,000 in Funding
Humboldt County’s entrepreneurial landscape is gearing up for a high-stakes showdown. StartUp Humboldt has announced the ten finalists from a pool of 108 applicants who will advance to the final round of its inaugural competition. In a “Shark Tank-style” event, these founders will pitch their ventures for a chance to secure up to $200,000 in milestone-based funding.
The final pitch event is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, from 5:30 p.m. To 8:30 p.m. at the Eureka Theater. Admission to the event is free.
Competition Structure: Scale vs. Microventure
The competition is divided into two distinct tracks designed to support different stages of business growth and community impact.
The Scale Venture Track
Six ventures have advanced in the Scale Venture track, where they are competing for access to $175,000 in milestone-based funding. These companies represent a blend of Humboldt’s traditional industries and a new wave of ambitious, regional strengths.
- DERA Analytics: A software platform designed to help organizations maximize the value of clean energy assets, including EV fleets, batteries, and solar.
- GridIQ: A developer of smart power line monitoring systems aimed at improving grid reliability and reducing the risk of wildfires.
- Jersey Scoops: A lactose-free, “pasture-to-pint” ice cream producer focusing on scaling value-added dairy production.
- Pepper Inflatable Technologies: A creator of next-generation inflatable rescue craft utilizing patent-protected technology.
- Rhizome Wellness Collective: An LGBTQ2S+-focused mental health collective that employs local clinicians to increase access to affirming care.
- Sunken Seaweed: A venture advancing ocean-based food production through regenerative seaweed farming and processing.
The Microventure Track
Four ventures have advanced as finalists in the Microventure track. This category focuses on building sustainable, locally-rooted businesses with clear pathways for community impact. These finalists are competing for two awards totaling $25,000 in milestone-based funding.
- ForestScapes: A company dedicated to forest health and wildfire mitigation by reducing hazardous vegetation across the region.
- GroundedAI: An advisory and strategy firm that helps small businesses implement AI in responsible and practical ways.
Key Event Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, April 23, 2026 |
| Time | 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. |
| Location | Eureka Theater |
| Total Funding | Up to $200,000 |
| Cost | Free |
The Economic Impact on the North Coast
The diversity of the finalists—ranging from AI strategy and clean energy software to regenerative aquaculture and mental health services—signals a broadening of the North Coast’s economic identity. By providing milestone-based funding, StartUp Humboldt aims to bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and scalable business operations.
As these ten founders take the stage next week, the competition will highlight not only the viability of individual business models but also the region’s capacity to foster high-growth ventures that address critical environmental and social challenges.