TLDR: Prepify AI, a student-led startup, and ZoraSafe, Inc., a University of Florida company, were awarded the ‘Panelists’ Choice’ awards at the third annual GatorPitch event in Miami. The competition, hosted by UF Innovate and Mana Tech, showcased six University of Florida startups, with Prepify AI recognized for its AI-powered interview practice software and ZoraSafe, Inc. for its mobile platform combining real-time scam detection with reward-based learning.
Miami, FL – The third iteration of UF Innovate’s GatorPitch, held in Miami on November 13, 2025, celebrated the innovative spirit of University of Florida startups, with Prepify AI and ZoraSafe, Inc. receiving the coveted ‘Panelists’ Choice’ awards. The event, co-hosted by UF Innovate and international startup hub Mana Tech, in partnership with the Venture Mentoring Team (VMT), brought together a fresh cohort of six finalists to pitch their groundbreaking ideas to over 100 attendees from Miami’s vibrant investor and entrepreneurial community.
The six finalists, comprising three student-led companies and three UF companies, benefited from personalized mentorship provided by Etienne Gillard, Head of Ventures at Mana Tech, and the extensive network of VMT mentors. Melissa Kuchma, Assistant Director of Corporate Engagement and Tech Licensing at UF Innovate, remarked, “The six companies selected for the third edition of GatorPitch brought UF’s innovative spirit and dynamism to Miami.”
The distinguished panel of experts, including Andreas Calabrese of Tampa Bay Ventures, Danielle Mousseau of 35 Mules, and Melissa Strelkauskas of Acorn Capital Management, selected Prepify AI and ZoraSafe, Inc. for their innovative solutions. Prepify AI, a student-led venture, impressed with its AI software designed to help job seekers and students enhance their interview skills through practice. ZoraSafe, Inc., a UF company, was recognized for its mobile-first platform that integrates real-time scam detection with an engaging reward-based learning system.
Beyond the award winners, other promising companies that presented included student-led Knead and NeuHawk, alongside UF companies Canaery and Signalic. The GatorPitch event underscored Miami’s growing prominence as a key startup hub, attracting top talent and investors globally. According to the 2025 Global Tech Ecosystem Index by Dealroom, the Miami metro area holds the 25th position globally and 11th in the United States.
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GatorPitch continues to serve as a vital link, bridging UF innovation with Miami’s investor community and showcasing the university’s brightest minds and boldest ideas, reinforcing Miami’s status as a preferred location for these impactful events.
