2025 Health Equity Innovation Challenge Winners

View the Bios of the 2025 Health Equity Innovation Challenge Winners

The Health Equity Innovation Challenge’s third year saw a surge in national interest, attracting a diverse range of applicants from service organizations, foundations, and thought leaders in the health equity space. All semi-finalist founders were invited to present their solutions during Pitch Day, held at the Cabarrus Center in downtown Concord, NC. The five winning companies highlighted below stood out for their clear, compelling solutions that aligned strongly with the Challenge’s core priorities. We extend our sincere thanks to our title sponsor, Atrium Health – North, along with the Cabarrus EDC, Cabarrus Chamber, and the dedicated members of our Advisory Board for their invaluable support.

>> View the full press release announcing the winners of the 2025 Health Equity Innovation Challenge

Wave Rideshare and Delivery

Founder, Diondre Lewis
Charlotte, North Carolina

Wave is a rideshare and food delivery platform that prioritizes quality, safety, and equity for both riders and drivers. Leveraging advanced technology and streamlined processes, Wave is committed to delivering the safest and most convenient rideshare experience possible.

Riders can trust that every driver has undergone a rigorous background screening and verification process. For drivers, Wave offers higher pay, fair treatment, and comprehensive support, setting a new standard for what it means to drive for a rideshare service.

Visit the Wave Rideshare and Delivery website

Freeze Out Hunger

Founder & CEO, Aleksandra Stein
Charlotte, North Carolina

Freeze Out Hunger uses innovative freeze-drying technology to turn surplus and donated food into nutritious, shelf-stable meals that require no refrigeration or cooking. Designed for people in remote areas, experiencing homelessness, or without kitchen access, these ready-to-eat meals retain 97% of their nutrients and have a 20+ year shelf life. By partnering with nonprofits, food donors, and suppliers, Freeze Out Hunger bridges the gap between food waste and food insecurity—delivering healthy meals to underserved communities with dignity, sustainability, and efficiency.

Learn more about Freeze Out Hunger

Mini City

Founder & CEO, India Jha
Atlanta, Georgia

Mini City is a smart technology platform designed to help homeless care providers, clinics, shelters, and municipalities more efficiently connect individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness with vital resources. By streamlining access to legal identification, birth records, and government benefits, Mini City supports case workers and program leaders in saving time, reducing costs, and gaining data-driven insights into unmet needs. Their software empowers organizations to better serve vulnerable populations and innovate in the fight against homelessness.

Visit the Mini City website

Lavni

Founder & CEO, Marcus King Azeh
Atlanta, Georgia

Lavni is a trusted resource for compassionate, insurance-covered mental health care facilities. Dedicated to improving access to services that support long-term wellness, Lavni combines evidence-based practices with empathetic, professional care. Their team of licensed clinical therapists and clinicians is committed to making mental health care more accessible by accepting insurance and providing expert support for individuals navigating life’s challenges. Lavni empowers clients on their journey to emotional well-being with understanding and expertise.

Visit the Lavni website

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