In a defining moment for the future of AI-driven business solutions, Neesh.AI CEO and military veteran Justin Coats has secured first place at the STRIVE Program Pitch Competition, hosted by COCC’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in partnership with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) and the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE).
The STRIVE Program, a rigorous eight-week entrepreneurship accelerator for military-affiliated founders, culminated in a pitch competition where 14 entrepreneurs took the stage to present their business ideas to an audience of investors, industry leaders, and the broader community. Coats’ vision for the future of AI — one that prioritizes human empowerment over automation — set Neesh.AI apart, earning the company top honors and a $4,000 prize.
AI with Purpose: Neesh.AI’s Mission
At a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, Neesh.AI is pioneering a people-first approach, ensuring that AI serves as an extension of human creativity rather than a replacement. The company’s mission is clear: educate, integrate, and build AI solutions that amplify human potential, making businesses and individuals more efficient and innovative.
“This win is more than a milestone — it’s a validation of our belief that AI should work for people, not the other way around,” said Justin Coats, CEO of Neesh.ai. “Veterans have a unique ability to lead with resilience, adaptability, and purpose. The STRIVE Program has been instrumental in helping us refine our vision, and we’re grateful to COCC, IVMF, NACCE, and all those who make this opportunity possible for veteran entrepreneurs.”
Empowering Veterans Through Entrepreneurship
The STRIVE Program (Startup Training Resources to Inspire Veteran Entrepreneurship) is a nationally recognized initiative designed to help veterans, active-duty service members, and their families build sustainable businesses. This year, 18 participants began the journey, with 16 graduating and showcasing their refined business strategies.
As the first-place winner, Neesh.AI continues to gain momentum, standing at the intersection of AI innovation and human-centered technology. This victory solidifies the company’s role as a trailblazer in the AI space, ensuring that technology enhances — not replaces — the ingenuity of its users.
What’s Next for Neesh.AI?
About Neesh.AI:
Neesh.AI is redefining AI adoption with a people-first approach, ensuring that technology elevates human intelligence rather than replaces it. With a focus on education, integration, and building, Neesh.AI provides cutting-edge AI solutions that enhance productivity, creativity, and efficiency. The company’s mission is to empower individuals and businesses to harness AI’s full potential while keeping human ingenuity at the forefront.
