Pasadena Tech Startup Founder Named Finalist in ‘Fast Pitch’ Competition

A Pasadena woman who founded a company that provides a mobile app to help ease pain and anxiety has been named one of five finalists to compete for $30,000 in cash and $50,000 in professional services at the Women Founders Network’s annual Fast Pitch Competition.

Through her company, Flowly, founder and CEO Celine Tien, spearheaded the creation of an app that leverages biofeedback and virtual reality to help users with relaxation training.

During the WFN’s Fast Pitch competition, now in its eighth year and scheduled for Oct. 27, Tien will face off against four other female business founders from throughout Southern California. Other businesses focus on cancer care, college admissions, healthy cannabinoid-enhanced foods, and turnkey backyard apartment creation, according to the organization.

“We are so pleased to announce our top five finalists among a crowded field of nearly 140 applicants,” said Women Founders Network Founder and CEO Darya Allen-Attar.

“In the face of an uncertain and challenging economy, these women are solving large and meaningful problems, making their businesses very attractive and poised for growth,” she said.

“Cash prizes totaling a minimum of $25,000 will be awarded by WFN judges and an additional $5,000 cash prize will be awarded to the Junior Judges’ favorite Fast Pitch company,” the WFN said in a written statement. “This award empowers girls in grades 6-12 to participate in the process and be inspired by women entrepreneurs.”

In addition to potentially winning cash and other prizes, “The group will also gain visibility and exposure to leading early-stage venture capitalists, angel investors and business executives who are judging the event and attending the virtual pre-pitch Springboard Enterprises Dolphin Tank with Women Founders Network on Aug 20th, and a private invitation-only event on Sept. 22nd.”

More information on the competition is available on the Women Founders Network website at womenfoundersnetwork.com. More information about Flowly is available on the app website at flowly.world.