Brooklyn Public Library Awards $40K+ to Entrepreneurs in PowerUP 2025

The Brooklyn Public Library held its 22nd annual PowerUP Business Plan Competition last week, awarding over $40,000 to emerging entrepreneurs from across the borough. The grand prize of $20,000, sponsored by Dime Community Bank, was awarded to Mariana Silfa for her venture, Viva Art Studio, which focuses on bilingual art education for families.

Dime Community Bank has been a long-time supporter of the library’s small business initiatives and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering local entrepreneurial talent. “We believe that this program shines a light on the next generation of great business leaders and paves the way to an opportunity for success,” said Steve Miley, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Dime Community Bank.

Competition Highlights and Awards

This year’s competition saw a significant turnout, with more than 465 entries, primarily from first-time business owners. The second-place prize of $10,000 went to Maud and Ioan Delice for their product, Pikliz Please, a Haitian-style cabbage relish. Karma Masselli claimed third place and $5,000 for her project, Shorts Movie Theater, which showcases both new and classic short films.

Since its inception in 2003, the PowerUP initiative has distributed over $600,000 to more than 200 entrepreneurs. Noteworthy businesses that began with PowerUP support include Bogota Latin Bistro, Island Pops, and Greenlight Bookstore. These ventures have significantly contributed to the local economy and community.

This year’s finalists presented a diverse range of business ideas, from art education and gaming-based learning to AI-driven tools aimed at assisting immigrant communities. Five other participants received merit awards of $1,000 each and were recognized for their innovative pitches.

Audience Choice and Merit Awards

The audience choice award, which came with an additional $1,000, was presented to Catrina Bowen for her company, ProManage Services, specializing in managing construction paperwork. Other merit award recipients included:

• Ramon Almodovar for Xmigra, an AI-powered platform assisting immigrants with the immigration process.
• Jesse Aujero for Brooklearners, an educational program utilizing Minecraft as a learning tool.
• Tirrell Barronette for Reciboost, an e-commerce platform converting receipts into personalized sales.
• Maya Williams for Dimensional Dance Collective, a hub for young dancers to develop skills.

All participants benefited from free classes covering essential topics such as marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, along with personalized support for their business plans from industry professionals.

Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library, praised this year’s finalists, stating, “They demonstrated imagination and fortitude in equal measure: from an art studio to a Minecraft club and an AI-based app to help new immigrants.”

The PowerUP Business Plan Competition continues to thrive thanks to generous support from Dime Community Bank, along with contributions from Citizens, Data Axle Reference Solutions, and Ridgewood Savings Bank. This initiative not only uplifts aspiring entrepreneurs but also strengthens the local economy and community.