Announcing the Winner of the 2024 FinTech Incubator Challenge

This is the fourth annual competition, which Sound and UWT launched in 2021 to connect with innovators interested in developing financial tools that help consumers manage their finances while helping to improve their financial health. Applicants submitted their ideas in September, and earlier this month, three finalists presented their concepts to a panel of judges from Sound, UWT and Tacoma Venture Fund.

The judges were intrigued to learn more about CreditUp. “As a financial institution, we want to provide our members with tools that will help our members manage their finances confidently,” said Nancy Sternitzky, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Sound Credit Union. “CreditUp, is designed to enhance consumers’ financial knowledge and connect them with tools to manage their finances with confidence. This innovation aligns with the purpose of the challenge, as well as Sound’s commitment to financial empowerment.”

“CreditUp is designed to empower users by providing them with better tools for financial education and management,” said Sharma. The app focuses on helping users understand and improve their credit scores through personalized guidance, actionable tips, and progress tracking. With this user-centric approach, CreditUp aims to demystify credit scores and make financial wellness accessible to everyone. Looking ahead, I am excited about the potential of CreditUp to positively impact users by promoting financial literacy and fostering responsible credit habits. I hope that this initiative will help individuals take control of their financial futures with confidence.”

As the winner of this year’s competition, Aashi Sharma received $10,000 in total cash prizes from Sound, as well as a six-month membership for CoMotion Labs in Seattle. These resources will support Sharma in further developing CreditUp and provide her with opportunities to connect with a community of entrepreneurs and innovators who can contribute to her success. “We are thrilled to see Aashi’s success with CreditUp – a testament to her vision and entrepreneurial drive. We look forward to seeing her elevate CreditUp to the next level,” said Michael Turek, Associate Director, Center for Business Analytics Milgard School of Business at UWT.

About Sound Credit Union: Sound Credit Union was founded in 1940 and today is one of Washington State’s largest credit unions. With 25 full-service branch locations throughout the Puget Sound area, Sound provides their 175,000 members with authentic and trusted financial support and services. Sound is driven by the purpose of standing with members, employees and the community through all waves of life. For more information, please visit www.soundcu.com. About University of Washington Tacoma: The University of Washington Tacoma (UWT) is an urban-serving university providing access to students in a way that transforms families and communities. The university impacts and informs economic development through community-engaged students and faculty. UWT conducts research that is of direct use to our community and region. And, most importantly, UWT seeks to be connected to our community’s needs and aspirations.