Well City Challenge
Well City Challenge 2.0 was powered by Independence Blue Cross and co-led by the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia and Accelerate Health Equity. We helped lead the program from start to finish: narrowing about 100 applications from 46 ZIP codes to 15 finalist teams, guiding them through a four-week incubator, and producing a live pitch night at the CIC Science Center.
The challenge
Black and brown Philadelphians face higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, fewer nearby physicians, and limited safe spaces to exercise. Independence Blue Cross wanted to back the people closest to those barriers with the ideas to solve them.
100+
Applications
46
ZIP codes represented
What we delivered
Strategy coaching
We provided hands-on support to shape each team's business model and operating plan.
Brand and messaging
We sharpened each team's narrative, identity, and pitch materials.
Mentor matching
We matched teams with operators, clinicians, and subject-matter experts for one-on-one support.
Pitch practice
Teams practiced weekly to prepare for the live competition.
Judging and prizes
We helped the judges select the winners and coordinated the prize awards for every winning team.
Pilot pathways
Continued coaching and partner connections helped teams move their ideas toward pilots.
The outcome
Fifteen finalist teams from about 100 applicants finished the four-week incubator and pitched live at the CIC Science Center. Derrick Tarver won the $50,000 grand prize for That Could Be Me, three Judges' Choice winners received $10,000 each, and three People's Choice winners received $7,500 each.
The teams left with sharper business models, stronger pitch materials, and mentor relationships. Continued coaching and partner connections helped them move their ideas toward pilots.
“The Well City Challenge has shown us that there is great opportunity in teaming up with grassroots innovators and influential enterprises. We would like to congratulate all the finalists for their hard work and their extraordinary community commitment.”
Kernika Gupta
Director of CEO Initiatives, Independence Blue Cross
“I would like to extend a huge thank you to the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia, Independence Blue Cross, Accelerate Health Equity, Launch Point Labs and all of the amazing mentors for being so generous with your time. The Well City Challenge provided all of us with equitable access to top notch resources to let us bring our ideas to life, and I can’t thank you all enough.”
Derrick Tarver
Founder, TCBMe, Well City Challenge 2.0 grand prize winner
Source: Independence Blue Cross announcement of the Well City Challenge 2.0 winner, September 27, 2023.
“When our partners are planning equity-focused community challenges and they wonder who might help them run it, I recommend Launch Point Labs without hesitation.”
Jeff Hornstein
Executive Director, Economy League of Greater Philadelphia
