2024 Recipients
In 2024, the Dorfman Incubator Grant program awarded a total of $140,000 to five startups working across consumer marketplaces, healthcare technology, renewable energy, sustainability, and signage technology. Several recipients were repeat grantees, reflecting continued progress and momentum supported by the program.
Meet the Companies
UpPup
Founded by Cal Lutheran alumna and employee, Rosie Baker ’21, ’25, and alumna Princesa Martinez.
Formerly Misfit Munchies, UpPup is a sustainable pet food startup transforming imperfect local produce into nutritious dog treats.
PlotViews
Founded by Cal Lutheran alumnus and Hub101 member, Zach Dunn.
A platform modernizing the signage industry through improved standardization and transparency. Formerly, PlotSigns, PlotViews is a repeat grant recipient.
Suma
Founded by community partner, Denice Wharton.
A SaaS platform transforming licensing management for Certified Nursing Assistants and healthcare employers, with a strong commitment to hiring Cal Lutheran student interns.
Wayside Energy
Founded by Cal Lutheran alumnus, James Werbe.
Creating a recyclable, modular, and rigid single piece injection molded battery pack system with a unique geothermal cooling system that is industry leading in price, reliability, safety, and performance while being cheap and simple to manufacture. Wayside is a repeat grant recipient.