The InnovateHER Challenge funded by the city of Columbia showed the best in women entrepreneurs on Thursday night, although it was a local man’s invention that amazed everyone.
Anthony Nedd, is the inventor of the Rooster Booster and has won first place in the competition. In March, Nedd will preview South Carolina at the national level in Washington, D.C.
“It was a big surprise,” said Nedd. “To be the only man in the competition was a little unsettling, but I’m glad I created something that works and gives value to other people.”
InnovateHER was created by the U.S. Small Business Administration to point products and services that influence the lives of women and their families. The item must be something that can be produced and fills a want in the marketplace.
Eight participants presented their ideas to an all-female panel of judges. Ideas included a transportation service for children, a natural hair and skin care line. The participants got comments from the audience and judges about their items.
Nedd had his idea for the Rooster Booster in 2013 after his car’s battery gave up. The traditional battery charger that he had in his garage couldn’t boost the battery.