In November 2022, Julien and Andrew, just 17 and 18 years old at the time, took a bold step and entered the first-ever pitch competition at the University of New Orleans (UNO). Armed with nothing more than a minimum viable product (MVP), they set out to showcase Automatic Trainer to a panel of esteemed judges. Despite facing stiff competition from more experienced undergrad and grad-level startups, their hard work and preparation paid off.

After weeks of refining their product with the help of mentors, including those at the Beach Research Park, they delivered a standout pitch that included a live demonstration of their prototype. Their efforts were rewarded with the Grand Prize of $7,000 and an additional Audience Favorite award of $1,000. This win not only validated their idea but also gave them the momentum to take their business to the next level.

The victory at UNO wasn’t just about the prize money—it was a learning experience that shaped the direction of their business. Julien and Andrew learned a great deal about the market they were entering, the needs of their target audience, and the intricacies of crafting a solid business model. Through business planning sessions and pitch mentorship, they gained insights that will guide their growth moving forward.

The connections made during the competition have proven invaluable. The mentorship and advice they received from seasoned entrepreneurs and business experts have continued to shape the trajectory of their business, providing them with guidance, resources, and strategic partnerships that will last long into the future.

Fast forward to March 2023, and Julien and Andrew took another significant step in their entrepreneurial journey: they officially formed an LLC for Automatic Trainer. With the assistance of mentor Mr. Mike Williams, they navigated the process of setting up the legal and business framework for their startup. This formal step gave their business the foundation it needed to grow and operate as a legitimate entity.

To celebrate this milestone, they designed new shirts featuring their updated logo, which they distributed to friends, family, and early supporters. This gesture was a tangible reminder of the hard work that had gone into getting to this point—and of the exciting road ahead.