The Brooklyn Public Library recently concluded its 22nd annual PowerUP Business Plan Competition, granting over $40,000 in prizes to emerging entrepreneurs in Brooklyn. The grand prize of $20,000 was awarded to Mariana Silfa for her venture, Viva Art Studio, which focuses on bilingual art education for families.
Dime Community Bank, the lead sponsor of the competition, has been a steadfast supporter of the library’s initiatives aimed at fostering small business growth. Steve Miley, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Dime Community Bank, emphasized the bank’s commitment to nurturing future business leaders and enabling local entrepreneurs to succeed.
Recognizing Innovative Ventures
In addition to Silfa’s victory, the competition recognized other noteworthy projects. Second place was awarded to Maud and Ioan Delice, who received $10,000 for their product, Pikliz Please, a Haitian vegetable relish. Karma Masselli took third place, earning $5,000 for Shorts Movie Theater, a venue aimed at showcasing both new and classic short films.
The PowerUP initiative, which began in 2003 to support businesses in the wake of 9/11, has now distributed more than $600,000 to over 200 entrepreneurs. Notable businesses that have emerged from this program include Bogota Latin Bistro, Island Pops, and Greenlight Bookstore, which have all made significant impacts in their respective fields.
Supporting Diverse Ideas
This year, the judging panel, composed of business owners, nonprofit leaders, and academics, selected Viva Art Studio as the top entry from a competitive pool of over 465 submissions, many of which were from first-time business owners. Finalists presented a range of innovative ideas, including art education, gaming-based learning, and AI-driven tools aimed at assisting immigrant communities.
Five additional participants received merit awards of $1,000 each, following an online public vote for the best pitch. Catrina Bowen was recognized with the audience choice award for ProManage Services, a company specializing in managing construction paperwork. Other recipients included Ramon Almodovar for Xmigra, Jesse Aujero for Brooklearners, Tirrell Barronette for Reciboost, and Maya Williams for Dimensional Dance Collective.
All participants benefited from free classes on marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, along with tailored business plan support from industry professionals.
Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library, remarked on the creativity and resilience demonstrated by this year’s finalists, highlighting the diverse range of ideas that emerged, from art studios to technology applications for new immigrants.
The PowerUP Business Plan Competition continues to thrive thanks to the generous support of Dime Community Bank, alongside additional backing from Citizens, Data Axle Reference Solutions, and Ridgewood Savings Bank. This initiative not only supports aspiring entrepreneurs but also strengthens the local economy by fostering innovation and creativity.
