26th Annual Fund Raising CBIC Gala Program
ABOUT THE CHARLOTTESVILLE BUSINESS INNOVATION COUNCIL
The Charlottesville Business Innovation Council (CBIC) stands as a dynamic, multifaceted community hub dedicated to celebrating, educating, and advocating for the region’s technology pioneers. Since its establishment in 1997, CBIC has served as a trusted 501(c) non-profit membership organization, fostering innovation and driving progress in Charlottesville’s thriving technology ecosystem.
As the region’s technology council, CBIC curates opportunities through impactful public events, insightful newsletters, and active civic advocacy, empowering its members—who collectively employ thousands of individuals across the greater Charlottesville area. By providing a forum for bold ideas and amplifying the collective voice of the technology sector, CBIC nurtures innovation, fuels entrepreneurship, and champions the growth and success of local technology-driven enterprises.
Through strategic partnerships, educational initiatives, and collaborative relationships, CBIC enhances, promotes, and propels technology initiatives that bolster both economic vitality and social progress, ensuring Charlottesville remains a beacon of innovation.
NETWORKING | INNOVATORS ROW SHOWCASE | PHOTO BOOTH OPPORTUNITY WITH PARLOR THE STUDIO (A TICKETED ACTIVITY)
MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Max Mohr, CEO, Gig Strategic
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Akshita Tiwari, Co-Founder, qME
DINNER | DANCING | DJ EPIC SOUNDS ENTERTAINMENT COFFEE | COCKTAILS | CONVERSATION
Invest Your InnoBucks: Choose the 2025 People’s Choice Innovators Row Winner!
Each guest receives CBIC InnoBucks at registration, offering a unique opportunity to engage with and support innovation. During the Gala reception, guests can explore Innovators Row, where groundbreaking startups and innovators showcase their work.
To participate, guests use their InnoBucks to invest in the innovators who impress them the most. The innovator who collects the most InnoBucks will be honored as the People’s Choice Innovators Row Recipient during the Gala ceremony.
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
CEO, Gig Strategic
Max is the Chief Executive Officer of Gig Strategic, a full-service digital marketing company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their online presence. With a strong background in digital marketing and business development, Max has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth since joining in 2020. He was the first full-time employee brought on by the founder and has since progressed through roles such as Account Manager and Business Development Director. Under his leadership, Gig Strategic continues to provide innovative solutions in website development, SEO, social media management, and digital advertising, helping businesses “get digital, get found, and get more customers
INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER
Co-Founder, qME
Akshita is the Co-founder of qMe, an educational platform dedicated to making quantum computing accessible to students from middle school to college. Passionate about bridging the gap in STEM education, Akshita has worked to introduce quantum computing to younger audiences, helping them overcome the initial fear of the field2. She has also contributed research in quantum computing and immunotherapy, exploring innovative applications in science and technology. Through qMe, Akshita continues to inspire the next generation of quantum scientists by fostering curiosity and engagement in this cutting-edge domain.
CBIC ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation
CBIC recognizes an individual who currently embodies all elements of successful tech-centric entrepreneurship, including innovation, employment, leadership, finance, determination, and persistence.
FINALISTS:
Kevin Eisenfrats | Contraline
Kevin is revolutionizing reproductive health as the founder of Contraline, a pioneering biotech company transforming the male contraception industry, valued at $10-20 billion. Since founding the company in 2013, Kevin has positioned Contraline as a global leader, owning two advanced non-hormonal, reversible contraceptive products in late-stage clinical trials. With over $30 million raised from top investors like Google Ventures and Founders Fund, Kevin is nearing the close of a $65 million Series B funding round, paving the way for market expansion.
Kristina Loftus | Rhoback
Kristina has transformed Rhoback into a nationally recognized activewear brand through visionary leadership and strategic growth. Since founding the company in 2016, she has scaled operations to a workforce of 88 employees, driving innovation and efficiency in a competitive market. Her creative marketing campaigns, including partnerships with industry icons, have strengthened brand recognition and engagement. Kristina’s commitment to social responsibility shines through initiatives like producing masks to support local communities during COVID-19.
Jake Spradling | Cargolabs Inc.
Jake is revolutionizing the trucking insurance industry as co-founder of CargoLabs, a pioneering web app that streamlines agency operations, introduces innovative insurance products, and enables 24/7 e-commerce access for clients. Since founding CargoLabs in 2019, Jake has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and vision, achieving rapid growth with a 7x increase in monthly active customers and securing $750k in funding, including a $100k Commonwealth Commercialization Fund grant. Committed to mentorship and workforce development, he collaborates with UVA interns and supports aspiring entrepreneurs.
CBIC EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by C’Ville Capital Partner
CBIC recognizes one tech or tech-centric business that creates an environment that attracts, develops, and retains highly skilled talent in a way that enhances our ecosystem and local economy. Consider factors such as internships, mentoring, upward mobility, vertical movement, and equity-mindedness.
FINALISTS:
Contraline, Inc. | contraline.com
Contraline, a Charlottesville-based biotech company, is revolutionizing male contraception with its innovative products like ADAM™, a non-permanent, reversible hydrogel implant, and NES/T, a hormonal male contraceptive gel. Demonstrating clinical excellence, Contraline’s trials in Australia achieved near-total sperm suppression without surgery, setting new benchmarks in reproductive health. With substantial funding from industry leaders and partnerships with institutions like Y Combinator, Contraline is pioneering change while contributing to local economic growth. Founded by UVA graduate Kevin Eisenfrats, the company engages in education and advocacy, exemplifying innovation and community impact. Contraline is redefining reproductive health and shaping a transformative future.
Rhoback | rhoback.com
Rhoback is redefining workplace excellence as a nationally recognized premium activewear brand. Evolving from a Darden School startup to a thriving business, Rhoback fosters a close-knit environment that empowers employees to grow, innovate, and succeed. By championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and celebrating initiatives like International Women’s Day, they create a workplace where all team members feel supported. Their commitment to mentorship, professional development, and entrepreneurship highlights their dedication to employee well-being.
Tiger | workwithtiger.com
Tiger’s Family of Local Brands is a purpose-driven, family-owned business proudly rooted in Charlottesville Virginia. With a people-first approach, Tiger invests in professional development, top benefit packages, celebrates individuality, and fosters a culture of teamwork. From solar innovation to safety leadership, Tiger empowers 400+ employees to grow personally and professionally. Tiger champions community impact through events like Grace for Veterans and sustainability efforts across its fuel, solar, convenience store and car wash divisions. Known for its resilience, growth, and strong values, Tiger sets the bar for employer excellence and continues to energize the region’s workforce and business community.
CBIC STARTUP OF THE YEAR
CBIC recognizes an innovative company or project working to develop and validate a scalable economic model that would support growth beyond its entrepreneurial start. Preference will be given to those candidates that have experienced the classic startup path such as a lean beginning, development of an MVP, and early market validation, and whose principals exhibit passion, devotion, and innovation. Candidates will have demonstrated significant progress over recent years and/or made an impact as determined by jobs created, revenue generated, or other startup success metrics.
FINALISTS:
Caju AI | caju.ai
Cajuai is transforming customer communications across industries with its innovative platform that provides unparalleled insights while prioritizing privacy, security, and compliance. With a $3 million funding round secured from top investors, Cajuai is rapidly scaling and demonstrating significant market potential. Its versatile solutions serve clients in life sciences, finance, and beyond, addressing critical needs in sales, marketing, and support functions. Backed by a leadership team with deep industry expertise, the company continues to make strides in multiple sectors.
Liquet Medical | liquetmedical.com
Liquet Medical is revolutionizing pulmonary embolism (PE) treatment with its Versus Catheter, a cutting-edge localized drug delivery system that features real-time pulmonary pressure monitoring and dual-lung treatment capability. Achieving FDA 510(k) clearance in just three years with $3M in deployed capital, Liquet Medical has validated its product effectiveness through major regulatory milestones. Recognized as a MedTech Innovator cohort company, Liquet is rapidly advancing toward commercialization with strong investor support and strategic hospital partnerships..
MetricMatters | metricmatters.ai
MetricMatters is revolutionizing small business success in Charlottesville through its dedicated analytics platform. By transitioning from a lean MVP in fall 2024 to a full product launch in March 2025, MetricMatters delivers actionable insights that empower local businesses and UVA-affiliated startups. Focused on community impact, the company fosters a synergistic growth model where its success is tied to the prosperity of those it serves..
Syntrillo | syntrillo.com
Syntrillo is transforming stroke prevention with its groundbreaking technology that monitors stroke indicators at an unprecedented scale, enabling timely and precise interventions to reduce recurrence risks. Initially focusing on stroke survivors, Syntrillo aims to expand its impact to all at-risk patients, addressing a critical healthcare challenge. With nearly $3 million in funding, key insurer contracts, and collaborations with leading hospital systems, Syntrillo has demonstrated industry validation and real-world effectiveness..
CBIC STUDENT ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Charlottesville Office of Economic Development
CBIC recognizes one student entrepreneur, or a team of student entrepreneurs, who have successfully created or advanced the development of an idea, new product, service, or product candidate. This entrepreneur or team of entrepreneurs provide an example to other students to pursue entrepreneurship while at school. Candidates are students in a K-12 school, college, or university.
FINALISTS:
Benjamin Joseph | Acceleration Backpacks
Acceleration Backpacks is a purpose-driven innovation revolutionizing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Featuring velcro chest closures, an internal motor system, and a wireless remote system, the backpack enhances automation and independence. Inspired by a classmate with Muscular Dystrophy, Benjamin Joseph began this venture in 9th grade and has evolved it through continuous improvement using feedback from potential users and UF Health specialists. Active in UVA’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, Benjamin participated in the E-Cup Concept Stage Competition and Darden’s i.Lab 2024 Summer Cohort, balancing academics with a commitment to innovation.
Adair Maynard | Memorial Tribute Legacy
Adair Maynard is the founder of Memorial Tribute Legacy (MTL). She’s reimagining how we honor and remember those who have passed through durable QR plaques linked to evolving, multimedia digital memorials with a concierge content curation service for Loved Ones – family, friends, and community. Featured on the Experience Darden Podcast, she was the 2024–2025 President of Darden’s Entrepreneurship & Venture Capital (EVC) Club and Co-Lead of KPI Club, helping UVA Darden’s entrepreneurship and venture capital ecosystem flourish with Darden ranking #5 in Poets & Quants for entrepreneurship. Under her leadership, the club earned the Darden Student Association’s Club Excellence Award, reached over 3,000 attendees, and achieved record participation in UVA’s E-Cup.
Akshita Tiwari | qMe Quantum Computing
Akshita Tiwari is revolutionizing STEM education through qMe, a venture making quantum computing accessible and engaging for learners of all ages. By gamifying complex concepts and fostering early quantum literacy, qMe has educated over 300 students globally, inspiring 300+ research projects and blogs. With initiatives like a self-authored picture book and outreach at JNTU-K in India, Akshita encourages curiosity and innovation while also being a strong advocate for STEM equity. Recognized through features on NBC Washington and The Quantum Insider, qMe exemplifies entrepreneurial adaptability, raising funds for education and healthcare projects while driving global impact. Akshita is redefining STEM education, inspiring future innovators worldwide.
CBIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Albemarle County Office of Economic Development
CBIC recognizes a K-12 educator who has set an example of incorporating the principles of innovation, entrepreneurship, invention, and/or technological achievement in a classroom setting.
FINALISTS:
Chris Bunin | Albemarle High School
Chris empowers students with workforce-ready skills by integrating UAV (drone) technologies, geospatial tools, and professional certifications into education. As Principal Investigator for the National Geographic grant “Revisiting Charlottesville,” he led innovative projects using cloud-based WebGIS tools and immersive field experiences to connect students with their communities. Through internships, Esri certifications, and FAA Remote Pilot exams, Chris ensures students graduate with valuable credentials. His educational leadership extends nationally, from curriculum authorship and C-SPAN keynote appearances to industry webinars.
Michael Bruscia | Charlottesville Catholic School
Michael is inspiring middle school students to excel in science and innovation through engaging, hands-on learning experiences at Charlottesville Catholic School. Recognized for his contagious passion, he has guided students to win 10 out of 14 categories at the Virginia Piedmont Regional Science Fair and secured a NASA Moon Tree grant to connect students with space exploration. From leading NASA’s Growing Beyond Earth project to coaching robotics teams for global competitions, Mr. Bruscia equips students with critical STEM skills and fosters creativity.
Heather Schmidt | Albemarle County Public Schools
Heather empowers students to excel in an industry vital to the digital age. By leading real-world security assessments for local businesses and coaching top-ranked Capture the Flag teams, she prepares students for impactful careers. Her innovative “Haunted Hall” event raises cybersecurity awareness, while high pass rates for CompTIA Security+ certifications demonstrate teaching excellence. Recognized with the Gold Cyber Opportunity School Badge and 1st Place in Region 5 for program excellence, she fosters community connections through mentorships and industry collaborations. Heather’s dedication to education and workforce development positions her as a trailblazer, shaping the future of cybersecurity talent.
Tal Thompson | Community Lab School
Tal is transforming mathematics education with a personalized learning system that fosters mastery, self-efficacy, and a love for learning. By moving beyond traditional methods, Tal empowers students with individualized approaches, leveraging the flipped classroom model and innovative confidence-building strategies like “small wins.” Students consistently achieve higher-than-average SOL pass rates and excel in advanced math courses. Tal’s instructional video library offers accessible, high-quality resources for learners globally, complementing his role as a nationally recognized speaker and thought leader.
CBIC TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION GRANT
Sponsored by North Fork
The recipient of the 2025 CBIC Educator of the Year award will receive a $2,500 grant to further education in their classroom. Since 2003, including tonight’s grant, CBIC has gifted more than $48,500 to area teachers to help further the use of technology and learning in their classrooms.
PAST AWARD RECIPIENTS:
- 2024 Robbie Munsey
- 2023 Kevin Huff, Monticello High School
- 2021-2022 Emily Anderson, Albemarle County Public Schools
- 2020 Dominique Morse, Albemarle County, Murray High School and Community Public Charter School
- 2019 Chris Bunin, Albemarle High School 2018 Chris Stanek, Monticello High School
- 2017 Stephanie Passman, Stony Point Elementary
- 2016 Eric Bredder, Monticello High School
- 2015 Katina Dudley, Monticello High School
- 2014 Michelle Karpovich, Western Albemarle High School
- 2013 Jeff Prillaman, Albemarle High School
- 2012 Corrie Kelly, Woodbrook Elementary
- 2011 Michael Craddock, Monticello High School
- 2010 Tony Wayne, Albemarle High School
- 2009 Matt Shields, Charlottesville High School
- 2008 Beth White, Western Albemarle High School
- 2007 Paula White, Crozet Elementary
- 2006 Emily Linkins, Lightfoot Elementary
- 2005 John Hunter, Venable Elementary School
- 2004 Renee Honaker, Madison County High School
- 2003 Sandy Estep, Virginia L. Murray Elementary School
CBIC INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Venture Central
CBIC recognizes an individual or organization for their creativity and resourcefulness in the development of a new product, service, or product candidate. Can also include the means by which their innovation will reach its end user.
FINALISTS:
Alex Zorychta | Not Yet Ventures
Alex is pioneering the earliest stage of venture capital with his fund, Not Yet Ventures, that invests as first check at the intersection where potential meets progress. This fund both supports talented founders who otherwise would not be able to attract funding, and also simultaneously serves angel investors who would not be able to access (or recognize) such high quality deal flow. By combining the approaches of the famous Y Combinator over the last 20 years with his own work over the last 15 years to vet founders even earlier than Y Combinator, Alex has created a catalyst that will enable support for talented entrepreneurs at earlier stages.
Avant Genomics | avant-genomics.com
Avant Genomics is revolutionizing cancer detection with its groundbreaking technology, originally developed for forensic genetics and now pivoted to liquid biopsy for early detection. Partnering with UVA Pathology and securing funding from sources like VIPC’s Commonwealth Commercialization Fund, the Coulter Foundation and the UVA Licensing and Ventures Group, Avant Genomics has de-risked its validated platform and is poised for commercialization. Selected for the Commonwealth BioAccelerator, the company exemplifies innovation, scalability, and impact. By addressing critical gaps in cancer detection and leveraging resourceful financial strategies, Avant Genomics is setting a new standard for biotech ingenuity.
Resilience Education | resilience-education.org
Resilience Education is transforming employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals through innovative tools and programs. Their Collateral Consequences Navigator™ leverages AI and data visualization to turn complex legal restrictions into actionable career paths, empowering job seekers and HR professionals alike. With 75% of their engineering team consisting of formerly incarcerated individuals, the organization ensures solutions are both empathetic and impactful. Through strategic partnerships with organizations like LinkedIn and Indeed, Resilience Education fosters systemic change in hiring practices. Recognized as a 2025 Jobs for the Future “Innovator to Watch,” they exemplify innovation, inclusion, and economic opportunity, redefining pathways to meaningful employment.
CBIC PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Gray Fox Mortgage & Nest Realty
CBIC recognizes new partnerships built in the last 18 months that model collaborative innovation and achievement which inspired others, and resulted as well in successful outcomes for the partnership itself, local businesses, education, non- profits, and/or the community at large. Preference will be given to partnerships that transcend each member’s respective purview.
FINALISTS:
CvilleBio Hub: Commonwealth BioAccelerator | cvillebiohub.org/accelerator
The Commonwealth BioAccelerator is revolutionizing biotech innovation and commercialization across Virginia through its collaborative initiatives and impactful partnerships. Established through Project VITAL and supported by a $4.3M GO Virginia grant, this coalition unites key public, private, and academic stakeholders, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, UVA Innovates, and Virginia Bio. By providing funding, mentorship, and infrastructure, the BioAccelerator empowers early-stage biotech companies to thrive and drives statewide economic growth. Serving as a scalable model for public-private collaboration, it strengthens Virginia’s innovation ecosystem and inspires future partnerships.
Business and AI Institute at UVA | bai-uva.org
The partnership between BAI and the UVA School of Data Science is redefining the intersection of academia and industry by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into business practices. Established in 2023, this collaboration leverages student-led initiatives and institutional expertise to address real-world challenges, benefit local businesses, and promote ethical AI practices. Through workshops, guest speakers, and impactful pro-bono projects, BAI enriches education and drives community development. This transformative partnership exemplifies innovation, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and tangible benefits for Charlottesville.
CBIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by Flora Pettit
CBIC recognizes one tech or tech-centric business, or organization, that serves as a model of achievement to which others can aspire, including indicators such as financial success, growth, healthy work environment, commitment to innovation, and contribution to the community.
FINALISTS:
Contraline, Inc. | contraline.com
Contraline, a Charlottesville-based biotech company, is revolutionizing male contraception with its innovative products like ADAM™, a non-permanent, reversible hydrogel implant, and NES/T, a hormonal male contraceptive gel. Demonstrating clinical excellence, Contraline’s trials in Australia achieved near-total sperm suppression without surgery, setting new benchmarks in reproductive health. With substantial funding from industry leaders and partnerships with institutions like Y Combinator, Contraline is pioneering change while contributing to local economic growth. Founded by UVA graduate Kevin Eisenfrats, the company engages in education and advocacy, exemplifying innovation and community impact. Contraline is redefining reproductive health and shaping a transformative future.
Seventh Wall | seventhwall.com
Seventh Wall stands out in the tech industry by combining business success with meaningful community impact. Through strong revenue growth and an expanding team, they continue to fuel local economic development while delivering reliable solutions to today’s tech and cybersecurity challenges.
They believe that great companies are built by great people. By focusing on employee well-being and lifestyle, they have created an environment where talented individuals can thrive personally and professionally.
That commitment extends beyond the workplace. Seventh Wall actively supports local initiatives and collaborates with community organizations, working to make a lasting, positive impact in Charlottesville and beyond.
The Seventh Wall team hopes to show that when a company invests in its people, its clients, and its community, it can achieve more than just success — it can raise the bar and inspire meaningful change.
Virginia Diodes | vadiodes.com/en
Virginia Diodes, Inc. (VDI) is a global leader in millimeter wave (mmWave) and terahertz (THz) technologies, driving innovation across industries such as 6G communications, automotive radar, radio astronomy, and other scientific and engineering applications. Headquartered in Charlottesville, VDI operates two facilities with a combined 30,000-square-feet of manufacturing space, employing over 120 skilled professionals. Recent achievements include product releases enhancing field measurement capabilities for spectrum analyzers and partnerships with industry leaders like Keysight Technologies. VDI’s $2.5 million expansion underscores its commitment to local economic growth, while ties with the University of Virginia bridge academic research and industry advancements. VDI exemplifies CBIC’s Business of the Year through innovation, economic impact, and community engagement.
CBIC SOCIAL GOOD AWARD
Sponsored by Design Clarity
CBIC recognizes one company or organization with efforts focused on social good. Their goal, in part, is to identify needs, improve our communities, and provide a meaningful benefit to the general public. Examples of social goods are clean air, education, clean water, racial equality, and access to affordable housing and healthcare. This award celebrates the positive impact that startups and businesses have on the greater Charlottesville community. Preference will be given to candidates that are tech or tech-centric businesses.
FINALISTS:
Autism Sanctuary | autismsanctuary.org
Autism Sanctuary is improving lives for individuals with autism, through the transformative power of nature. Offering impactful programs such as agricultural work, internship opportunities, and respite services, Autism Sanctuary equips participants with skills, independence, and meaningful connections. The organization fosters spaces and activities that honor dignity and promote emotional and physical well-being.
CharlottesvilleFamily Life & Home Magazine | charlottesvillefamily.com
CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine has been a community cornerstone since 1998, evolving from a parenting directory into a trusted digital and print resource with a calendar, expert guides, school news and health resources for families in greater Charlottesville. It hosts events like their KidFest & Camp Expo, sponsors non-profits, and contributes to civic conversations with events such as library talks and the Tom Tom Festival. Through thoughtful stories and initiatives—including the 2024 Doing Good Grant and 2025 Mompreneur Grant—CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine uplifts families and local businesses. With a new mobile app and Advisory Panel, CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine continues to exemplify social good by fostering connection and creating a lasting positive impact.
kurbsy | getkurbsy.com
Kurbsy is transforming transportation by making accessibility the standard for individuals with limited mobility. Inspired by personal experiences, Kurbsy champions inclusive solutions that prioritize safety, dignity, and community impact. Through tailored approaches, the company empowers underserved communities and fosters meaningful change in transportation. Kurbsy’s commitment to social good drives innovation that resonates deeply with community needs, redefining societal perceptions of mobility..
qMe | qmeforyou.wordpress.com
qMe is revolutionizing STEM education by democratizing quantum computing knowledge for high school students and beyond. With over 300 students educated globally—including outreach to Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in India—qMe fosters curiosity and innovation in quantum technologies. Social good initiatives have raised over $15,000 for education and healthcare projects, while internships empower learners with hands-on experience in educational technology, entrepreneurship, and quantum research.
CBIC IMPACT AWARD
Sponsored by Hantzmon Wiebel CPA and Advisory Services
CBIC established this award in 2022 to honor exceptional individuals, organizations, or projects that have made a tremendous positive impact on our ecosystem, an industry, or the world over an extended period of time, in rapid order under unique circumstances, or even in memoriam. An award recipient may be chosen at CBIC’s discretion.
- 2024 Sean Tubbs
- 2023 Damon Devito, In Memoriam
- 2022 Sandy Reisky
INNOVATORS ROW PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD
Sponsored by Design Clarity
Each guest receives CBIC InnoBucks at registration—now it’s time to put them to good use!
How to participate:
- Explore Innovators Row – During the Gala reception, visit Innovators Row to meet groundbreaking startups and innovators.
- Invest your InnoBucks – Give your InnoBucks to the innovator(s) who impress you the most. This is your chance to support ideas you believe in!
- Help determine the People’s Choice – The innovator who collects the most InnoBucks will be named the People’s Choice Innovators Row Recipient during tonight’s Gala ceremony.
What’s at stake? The winner will receive $500 in real funds and a lifetime CBIC membership to further their journey.
CBIC VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by CBIC
CBIC recognizes its volunteers who have gone above and beyond expectations to make substantial and lasting contributions to the organization’s growth and development.
PAST AWARD RECIPIENTS:
- 2024 Katina Dudley
- 2023 Adrian Felts and Alex Struminger
- 2021-2022 Sherry Gray and John Martin
- 2020 Hope McCutcheon, Justin Ritter, and Lily Garcia Walton
- 2019 Jon Moriarty
- 2018 Heidi Tombs
- 2017 Katie Murphy
- 2016 Kim Wilkins
- 2015 Liane Landers
- 2014 Jim Bain
- 2013 John Berryman
- 2012 Beth Roireau
- 2011 Chris Engel
- 2010 Laura Greene and Rusty Schundler
- 2009 Arin Sime
- 2008 Michelle Prosser and Linda Kolker
- 2007 Tracey Greene, Dave Keller, and Michael Latsko
- 2006 Reenst Leseman
- 2005 John Peterson
- 2004 Tracey Greene and Donna Shirley
DINNER
DANCING | DJ EPIC SOUNDS
COFFEE
COCKTAILS
CONVERSATION
OUR GALA SPONSORS
TITLE SPONSOR
CBIC ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
CBIC EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
CBIC STARTUP OF THE YEAR
CBIC IMPACT AWARD
CBIC STUDENT ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
CBIC EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
CBIC TECH IN EDUCATION GRANT
CBIC INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR
CBIC PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR
CBIC BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
CBIC VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
CBIC SOCIAL GOOD AWARD
INNOVATORS ROW
PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD
SPECIAL THANKS TO GALA COMMITTEE MEMBERS
CBIC STAFF
TRACEY GREENE
CBIC Executive Director
LALAINE MAT-AN
CBIC Digital Marketing Coordinator
GALA CO-CHAIRS
SHERRY GRAY
Buildertrend, CBIC Chairwoman
ADRIAN FELTS
Mantel Technologies
JOHN GRIFFITH
MITRE
CLAUDIA VEYSEL
If This Food Could Talk
2025 GALA VOLUNTEERS: PLANNING TEAM AND JUDGES
Navya Aenugu, esSTEMtials
Michele Aichs, North Fork
Andrew Carter, Monograph
Jim Coleman
Don Dunham, Cavalier Professional Services, Inc.
Katina Dudley, Albemarle County Public Schools
Bo Grist, CVSBDC
Joey Groah, Digico
David Hadwin
Noah Healy, Coordisc
Cameron Hardesty, Poppy Flowers
Amy Hill, Amy Hill Graphic Design
Craig Honick, Good People Research Company
Rick Kulow, Business & Entrepreneurship Mentor
Ellie Linkous, Eliah Peyton Photography
Bob Lloyd, Sartography
John Martin, Adial Pharmaceuticals
Hope McCutcheon, C’Ville Capital Group
Misty Parsons, North Fork
Kaila Privatsky, Poppy Flowers
Alida Newton, Sandbox
Marty Weiner, CodeZero
Lisa Winn, Castle Hill Gaming
CBIC'S MISSION
To nurture a vibrant technology community by creating opportunities for Charlottesville innovators.
CBIC'S VISION
CBIC is a multimodal community resource that celebrates, educates, and advocates for Charlottesville’s technology innovators.