The top 15 candidates in the 2020 SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) Launch Pad competition have been announced. The public will be able to begin online voting in August to determine who advances to participate at the 2020 SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November.
The SEMA YEN Launch Pad is a coveted competition for young entrepreneurs, students and business owners ages 18-39. Since 2013, the program has helped promising leaders and innovators jumpstart their businesses into what is now a $44.6 billion industry.
With more than 80 applicants entered into this year’s program, the competition was among the toughest in its history. The top 15 entries represent new technology and creativity; and include products that showcase how products and accessories can improve a vehicle’s styling and functionality.
The semifinalists, who will each receive a complimentary, one-year SEMA membership, one professional Launch Pad video, widespread awareness of their business through SEMA communication channels, and advance to the online voting stage, are listed below:
- Justin Bradshaw (REVER); Product: Mobile App
- Joshua Carton (Curien); Product: Neuron N2
- Johannes Crepon (PDM Automotive); Product: Data Technology
- Khanjan Desai (Alchemy); Product: ExoShield
- Luke Farley (Lynx Auto Wraps & More); Product: Lynx Auto Wraps TRD aps
- Keith Ferry (Cerebrum Sensor Technologies); Product: Cerebrum
- Roland Hence (FrontLane, Inc.); Product: Impulse – Emergency Brake Light
- Brendan McGrath (Dyme PSI); Product: AN Hose & Fittings
- Timur Mukhtasibov (AK Software); Product: BodyShopFlow
- Matt Rafeld (Beachcomber Offroad, LLC); Product: Stowaway Door
- Eric Rivera (Dirt Dynamix); Product: Truck Accessories
- Patrick Sweeny (Blackgate Customs, Inc.); Product: KDSS Sway Bar Drop Spacer Kit
- Brett Turnage (Brett Turnage Industries); Product: Modular Intercooler
- Mike Unger (PICINH); Product: Tasker Tailgate
- Brock Winberg (GTe-413 Electric Crate Motor); Product: The GTe-413 Universal Plug
After the online voting concludes, the five top candidates will go on to pitch their business ideas at the 2020 SEMA Show, where a panel of iconic judges select one winner to receive a prize package that includes $10,000 to be used for the benefit of their business, and exhibit space at the annual SEMA Show.
“The 15 semifinalists are a great representation of the passion and innovation that can only be found in this industry,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA Vice President, Councils and Membership. “While all products are unique and valuable, we’re excited to share their ideas with the public and learn what our consumers are most interested in.”
The program will teach participants new business strategies on how to develop, market and boost their automotive products or services used by industry experts.
To learn more about SEMA Launch Pad and each of the 15 semifinalists, visit www.sema.org/launchpad.