PHILADELPHIA, Pa. Philadelphia has announced the winners of the third annual Philadelphia Startup World Cup Pitch Competition, a regional entrepreneurship contest organized by the City’s Department of Commerce in partnership with Temple University. The competition highlights innovative startups and connects emerging businesses with funding, mentorship, and investment opportunities.

Taking first place was GreenIRR Inc., led by founder Celine King. The company earned a $25,000 award from the Philadelphia Department of Commerce and Citadel Credit Union, along with a six-month Innovation Nest membership through Temple University. As the regional champion, GreenIRR will go on to represent Philadelphia at the international Startup World Cup, where it will compete for a potential $1 million investment prize.

Sonura Care, founded by Gabriella Daltoso and Sophie Ishiwari, placed second and received $10,000 and a six-month Innovation Nest membership. Mexar, led by Roland Washington, earned third place, receiving $5,000 and the same membership benefits. Both companies plan to use the resources to expand their operations and strengthen product development.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker praised the city’s entrepreneurial community, emphasizing the importance of helping innovative businesses launch, grow, and succeed locally. She said the participating startups reflect the strength of Philadelphia’s innovation ecosystem and the city’s commitment to connecting founders with resources and opportunities.

Karen Fegely, Acting Commerce Director, said Philadelphia continues to grow as an international hub for innovation, noting that technology companies play a key role in creating jobs and attracting investment. Tempest Carter, Director of Strategic Technology Initiatives for the Department of Commerce, highlighted the competition’s role in helping founders access capital, build partnerships, and connect with investors.

In addition to the three winners, seven other startups competed in this year’s event: FlowEHR, Earable Intelligence, SnapRefund, AgriGates, Phyll, BOSS.Tech, and Siah Labs. All 10 participating companies received complimentary tickets to Innovation Weekend, organized by 1Philadelphia, as well as opportunities to pitch to investors during the Capital House event.

The competition was evaluated by a panel of leaders from the business, technology, finance, academic, and government sectors. Organizers say the event is part of Philadelphia’s broader strategy to strengthen the startup ecosystem, increase access to capital, and foster connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and strategic partners.

With its regional victory, GreenIRR now advances to the international Startup World Cup, carrying Philadelphia’s name onto the global stage and competing for one of the most significant startup investment prizes in the world.