Lancaster Avenue 21st Century Business Association Advances to Verizon Small Business Digital Ready FIFA World Pitch Semi-Finals

Empowering Philadelphia's Entrepreneurs on a Global Stage

Philadelphia, PA - June 29, 2026-- Entrepreneurs, community leaders, and ecosystem partners gathered in Center City Philadelphia as Verizon hosted its FIFA Small Business Super Pitch, bringing together innovative businesses from across the East Coast to compete for the opportunity to advance to the national finals while highlighting the important role small businesses will play as Philadelphia continues to welcome the world during the FIFA World Cup.

Hosted at VUE on 50 in Three Logan Square, the competition celebrated entrepreneurship, innovation, and the strength of local business communities. Five semifinalists representing a diverse range of industries presented their businesses before a distinguished panel of judges comprised of leaders from economic development, higher education, entrepreneurship, and business advocacy organizations.

Among the judges was Kwaku Boateng, President and CEO of Lancaster Avenue 21st Century Business Association Community Development Corporation (LA21-CDC), who joined fellow regional leaders in evaluating businesses based on innovation, impact, and growth potential.

“Philadelphia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to grow because organizations are working together to create meaningful opportunities for business owners,” said Boateng. “Competitions like Verizon’s Super Pitch do more than recognize great ideas they connect entrepreneurs with resources, mentors, and networks that help transform businesses into long-term contributors to our local economy.”

The event showcased entrepreneurs addressing challenges across mental health, creative services, consumer products, financial services, and technology. Following presentations and questions from the judging panel, one entrepreneur earned the opportunity to represent the Eastern Region in Verizon’s national championship competition.

The event also highlighted Verizon’s continued investment in small business development through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, a free online platform designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical tools, expert guidance, coaching, networking opportunities, and access to grant funding.

During the event, Elizabeth Detke, Program Manager for Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, shared the company’s vision for supporting entrepreneurs nationwide.

“Small businesses are the lifeline of our communities,” said Detke. “Our commitment is to reach one million small business owners by 2030 through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready. The platform is completely free and provides access to more than 70 expert-led courses, over 200 live events annually, one-on-one coaching, grant opportunities, and a community where entrepreneurs can learn from one another.”

Detke emphasized that while educational resources are valuable, one of the greatest needs among entrepreneurs is meaningful connection.

Following an afternoon of inspiring presentations, Melissa Robinson-Brown, founder of Renewed Focus, was selected as the Eastern Region winner. Renewed Focus provides psychological services designed to support high-achieving women who appear successful on the outside while quietly navigating stress, burnout, and emotional challenges.

As the regional champion, Robinson-Brown will advance to Verizon’s national Small Business Super Pitch Finale in July, where she will compete against winners from across the country for grant funding and national recognition. Her advancement reflects not only the strength of her business concept, but also the growing impact of purpose-driven entrepreneurs addressing critical needs within their communities.

“Melissa’s presentation reminded everyone that some of the most impactful businesses begin with deeply personal missions,” said Kwaku Boateng. “Her ability to clearly communicate both the problem she is solving and the lives she hopes to impact exemplifies the type of entrepreneurship that strengthens our communities. We congratulate her on this well-deserved achievement and look forward to cheering her on in the national finals.”

“When business owners connect with others who understand their journey, they’re able to share experiences, learn from one another, and overcome challenges together. Those connections are often what unlock new opportunities for growth.”

LA21 has been a strategic partner with Verizon Small Business Digital Ready since its inception, the event reflected the collaborative approach that continues to strengthen Philadelphia’s small business ecosystem. Through business education, strategic coaching, technical assistance, partnerships, and community engagement, LA21 remains committed to helping entrepreneurs build resilient businesses capable of thriving in an evolving economy.

“As Philadelphia prepares to welcome visitors from around the globe, it’s important that our local entrepreneurs are prepared to seize the opportunities that accompany global events,” Boateng added. “By working alongside partners like Verizon and other ecosystem organizations, we can ensure our small businesses are positioned not only to participate but to prosper.”

Entrepreneurs interested in expanding their skills, connecting with other business owners, and exploring grant opportunities are encouraged to register for Verizon Small Business Digital Ready. Participation is free and available regardless of wireless provider and are encouragedto sign up through our partner link https://digitalready.verizonwireless.com/partner-la21-cdc

LA21 continues to connect entrepreneurs with educational programming, technical assistance, growth initiatives, and strategic partnerships that help businesses start, scale, and sustain long-term success throughout Philadelphia’s commercial corridors.