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Mosqitter co-founder and CEO Anastasiia Romanova PHOTO/BFTPNEP
Mosquito control company wins Venture Idol 2026
Stacy Wescoe//May 12, 2026//
Listen to this articleMosqitter, a company that is developing innovative chemical-free mosquito control technology, was the winner of this year’s Venture Idol.
Hosted by Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the competition awarded Mosqitter co-founder and CEO Anastasiia Romanova the $20,000 Venture Idol Grand Prize.
Venture Idol 2026 brings together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, and community partners for an evening celebrating innovation and emerging technology companies.
The highlight of the evening was the Venture Idol live pitch competition, where four emerging companies presented innovative solutions across industries including insect control technology, artificial intelligence, water recovery, and strategic planning software.
The $5,000 Judges’ Choice Award was presented to Hydron Desalination, accepted by Sachin Nair, co-founder & CEO, in recognition of the company’s innovative approach to water recovery and desalination technology.
As part of the program, Ben Franklin Northeast also recognized several individuals and organizations for their contributions to innovation, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and regional collaboration through its annual Innovation Awards.
2026 Innovation Award Recipients:
Frederick J. Beste III Partnership Award: Jan S. Heller
Manufacturing Achievement Award: EAM-Mosca Corp.
Chadwick Paul, Jr. Entrepreneurial Achievement Award: Mussel Polymers, Inc.
