The California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce (CalAsian Chamber), in collaboration with the CalAsian Foundation and the National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE), is excited to announce the highly anticipated return of the Trailblazers: Women Innovators Pitch Competition. This year’s event is scheduled for August 1, 2025, at the UCI Beall Applied Innovation @ the Cove in Irvine, CA, running from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Registration is currently open, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP.
About the Event
Now entering its eighth year, Trailblazers stands as a prominent pitch competition that champions female-led innovation and entrepreneurship on a national scale. Each year, five finalists are meticulously chosen from a nationwide talent pool to present their business ideas before a live audience and a panel of expert judges. They have the opportunity to win essential funding and strategic support aimed at propelling their ventures forward.
Significance of the Competition
The Trailblazers event garners attention from civic leaders, investors, and advocates for change, all coming together to foster greater equity and visibility for women entrepreneurs. This complimentary event is open to the public, providing a unique platform for participants to engage with groundbreaking ideas and a community dedicated to inclusive economic development.
“Trailblazers is more than just a pitch competition—it’s a national platform that empowers and uplifts visionary women entrepreneurs,” stated Pat Fong Kushida, President & CEO of the CalAsian Chamber and CalAsian Foundation. “It provides an incredible opportunity to highlight innovative contributions that often go unnoticed and to carve paths for sustained business success.”
Meet the 2025 Finalists
The five entrepreneurs set to showcase their pioneering business concepts this year, selected from a competitive field of over fifty applicants, are:
- Kanna Ecklund – Offers a sustainable alternative to traditional floral foam, designed to retain water and provide safety for users and the environment.
- Valerie Bernal – Creator of sensory-friendly clothing and socks aimed at keeping children comfortable and calm throughout the day.
- Melody Stein – Founder of pi00a, an inclusive pizza brand that empowers the Deaf community and promotes Deaf culture through its business practices.
- Amber Ivey – Developer of AiDigiTales, AI-driven tools that support young learners, educators, and content creators of color.
- Charlyn Bender – Innovator behind Avarie Femcare, providing reusable and comfortable menstrual products tailored for active lifestyles and sustainability.
Recognition of Support
During the event, special recognition will be given to Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses (PMI U.S.) for their generous $100,000 investment in the CalAsian Foundation. This funding is aimed at increasing access to entrepreneurship and economic opportunities for small businesses, aligning with PMI U.S.’s focus on economic empowerment.
“At PMI U.S., we’re committed to pragmatic philanthropy – supporting initiatives that deliver real, measurable impact,” remarked Marian Salzman, PMI SVP, Corporate Development, U.S. “Our investment in the CalAsian Foundation is about championing small business owners and entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.”
Media Involvement
Members of the media are invited to cover this inspiring event. There will be opportunities for on-site interviews, as well as photo and video access to the pitch competition and networking reception.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lauren Akabori
Media & Content Specialist
California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce
lauren@calasiancc.org
(916) 912-5281
