The Los Angeles Business Journal annually recognizes 20 up-and-coming companies whose founders are themselves in their twenties. In 2021, 10 of the 20 startups cited were originated by UCLA Anderson students and alumni. That fully half the list has an Anderson connection is a testament to the school’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, extensive resources and focus on experiential learning.

“Great companies start with curious individuals who are solving a problem for which there is not a good solution available today,” says Trish Halamandaris (’92), director of the UCLA Anderson Venture Accelerator. “But taking an idea from conception to reality takes a team of smart, resilient and creative people working countless hours toward that goal. UCLA Anderson’s business creation atmosphere provides an environment of immersive programs and physical work space where such teams thrive. We’re very proud to see so many of our young entrepreneurs recognized for their hard work and dedication to achieve their dreams.”

These are the UCLA Anderson-affliated companies recognized by LABJ in 2021:

• John Dalsey (’23), Founder, Nectar Hard Seltzer

• Michael Vilardo (’21), Co-Founder and COO, Emile Learning

• Evan Quinn (’20), Co-Founder and CEO, hiyo

• Mai Bui (’21), Founder, Quarter20

• Doug Hanly (’21), Chief Investment Officer, Emerald Necklace

• Emily Smith (’22), Founder and CEO, nuFYX

• Colton Pace (’21), Co-Founder, realAppeal

• Jackson Foster (’21), Founder and Chief Executive, Edily

• Mitchella Gilbert (’21), Co-Founder and Chief Executive, Oya Femtech Apparel

• Victoria Brodsky (’23), Founder and CEO, DrinkLyte

Read the story in LABJ