BEEMOK Launches Startup Pitch Competition Offering $1M For Local Companies

Beemok has launched Catalyst, a new initiative designed to fuel early-stage companies across Charleston’s Tri-county area. At its core Catalyst is a business pitch competition, culminating in a live event on November 8, 2025, where up to $1 million in potential funding will be awarded. But Catalyst is much more than a competition; it is a dynamic, open-to-the-public gathering designed to provide entrepreneurs with exposure, opportunities to connect with investors, and pathways for growth. The event will feature live pitches from selected finalists, inspiring speakers, including successful entrepreneurs and experienced investors, and serve as a vibrant forum for networking among Charleston’s growing startup community. Whether or not attendees are competing, founders will have the chance to engage with peers, mentors, and potential backers, fostering collaboration and sparking new opportunities for growth.

Company founders can apply online at catalystbybeemok.com, and finalists will be selected to present their business opportunity in front of a panel of experienced investors, business leaders and a live audience on November 8 at the Terminal Building at Union Pier. The expert panel will make investment decisions based on the creativity and viability of the idea and the quality of leadership. Catalyst invites founders based in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester Counties to submit an overview of their ventures by September 30, 2025. The competition will also includes a category for current students who are fostering great ideas while finishing their education.

“So much of what we’re passionate about at Beemok is creating channels of opportunity in our community that don’t otherwise exist,” said Ben Navarro, co-founder of Beemok. “There is so much talent in our region, but even the best ideas and founders need support, and we want to keep the next generation of great ideas here. I want Catalyst to become a fun and engaging way to connect and support our existing entrepreneurial community while also inspiring the next era of builders and founders.”

Charleston’s start-up scene continues to grow with entrepreneurs launching ventures across technology, consumer goods, logistics and enterprise software. Catalyst by Beemok will help further position Charleston as a destination where high-potential businesses can start and scale. The November 8 event will be a showcase of the Tri-county’s brightest talent and boldest ideas, and a place for the entrepreneurial community to connect, collaborate and help build what’s next.

Catalyst Applicant Criteria:

• Entrepreneurs who live and work in Berkeley, Charleston or Dorchester County
• Startups that are in the early stages and require meaningful capital to unlock their next phase of growth
• Applicants do not need to be revenue-generating, though early sales, customer validation, or evidence of traction is strongly preferred.

Key Dates:

• Applications Open: July 25, 2025
• Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
• Live Pitch Event: November 8, 2025
• Funding Finalization: Q1 2026