From Winning Startup World Cup AZ to Building Again: The Journey of Manas Pathak
How a championship pitch led to a new company, global investment, and a mission to empower Arizona founders.
Last year, Manas Pathak of EarthEn Energy won the Startup World Cup Arizona and earned his place on the global stage at the Grand Finale in San Francisco.
But what happened next went beyond pitching.
Inspired by the experience, he went on to launch a second company, Grid8, and personally invested in the $1M global winner—turning his journey from competitor to active ecosystem builder.
Now, he’s encouraging bold Arizona founders to take their shot and step into the spotlight.
🎤 Pitch live for $100K in Scottsdale🌍 Compete globally for $1M⏳ Deadline extended: Apply by May 2
📅 Final Pitch: May 9, NextSpace Scottsdale🔗 Apply now → swcaz.io
Arizona’s startup ecosystem is rising fast—and the world is paying attention. This is the moment to build, pitch, and be seen.
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