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AT&T Business has named Flovara one of five finalists in its 2026 Small Business Contest, selected from more than 8,250 entries submitted by business owners across industries and stages of growth.
The contest highlights entrepreneurs who find overlooked opportunities and use connection to strengthen their communities. This year’s finalists span real-world social technology, inclusive athletics, youth development, food access, and sports fandom.
Flovara’s mission earns national recognition
AT&T highlighted Hollywood, Florida-based Flovara and founders Eduardo Flores and Stephen Hopkins for their work addressing modern social isolation. Flovara turns physical venues into interactive social hubs through Bente, its location-based, gamified platform for authentic and safer real-world connection.
Bente is designed to help young adults move beyond passive online interaction and connect with people where community already happens. The recognition reflects Flovara’s broader vision: technology should help people meet, participate, and build stronger local communities.
Meet the five finalists
Dope People Meet — Atlanta, Georgia: Founded by Porchia Marie, DPM creates inclusive experiences centered on play, relationships, healthier lifestyles, and economic opportunity. Its DPM® League combines co-ed competition with entertainment, wellness, networking, small-business exposure, and community engagement.
Flovara — Hollywood, Florida: Founded by Eduardo Flores and Stephen Hopkins, Flovara develops technology that transforms venues into real-world social hubs. Its flagship platform, Bente, supports location-based discovery and gamified connection.
Mission Valley Track & Field Club — Union City, California: Founded by Lee Webb, the organization has spent 45 years providing free cross-country and track programs, mentorship, education, and community service, including support for participants from underserved communities.
Prosperity Market — Los Angeles, California: Carmen Dianne and Kara Still launched the mobile farmers’ market and online marketplace in 2020. It connects farmers, food producers, chefs, artisans, and customers while advancing food access, nutrition education, agriculture, and local economic opportunity.
REP MVP by TRES J — Dallas, Texas: Founded by Jess Jan, the sports division of TRES J creates officially licensed jewelry for women sports fans. Its charity-choice model connects fandom with support for causes selected by collaborators.
What comes next
Four finalists will receive $5,000 for their businesses. One grand-prize winner will receive $50,000, one year of AT&T service with a new device, and access to business resources, tools, and a growing entrepreneurial community.
The winner will also appear in an episode of She’s Connected by AT&T, a documentary-style series highlighting entrepreneurs and athletes who break barriers and create opportunities for others. AT&T plans to announce the winner in November 2026.
Connection as a catalyst
Across all five finalists, the common thread is connection: bringing people together through technology, sports, mentorship, food, or shared identity. Flovara is honored to stand alongside businesses turning that principle into measurable community impact.
Read the original announcement:
Turning Connection into Impact: The Five AT&T Small Business Contest Finalists for 2026