Beemok launches start-up pitch competition offering $1M for local companies
July 31, 2025
Applications open today due by September 30
Today, Beemok Capital 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 include 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
ABOUT BEEMOK CAPITAL
Beemok Capital is the family office of business leaders and philanthropists Ben and Kelly Navarro. Headquartered in Charleston, S.C., Beemok is dedicated to building stronger communities and creating opportunities for others through purposeful investment. Beemok oversees a diverse portfolio spanning education, sports and entertainment, hospitality, real estate and health and wellness. The portfolio includes Meeting Street Schools and the Meeting Street Scholarship Fund, Credit One Stadium, the Credit One Charleston Open, the Cincinnati Open, The Charleston Place Hotel, and The Cooper Hotel. Beemok is also leading the development of Union Pier, a 65-acre waterfront property in historic downtown Charleston.
