Two Bronx Community College alumni were named finalists in the 2026 BX Factor Small Business Challenge hosted by the Bronx Economic Development Corporation as part of Bronx Week.

The BX Factor Small Business Challenge is an annual live pitch competition that highlights Bronx-based entrepreneurs and provides a platform for small businesses to present their ideas, connect with stakeholders and compete for investment support to advance growth.

Oscar Martinez, co-founder of Wisdom of Age, was awarded the competition’s top prize of $15,000. Wisdom of Age is a Black-owned New York City luxury knitwear brand known for premium cardigans, rugby shirts, knitted jerseys, and outerwear that reflect a contemporary New York aesthetic rooted in craftsmanship and culture.

Yasiris Ortiz, founder and CEO of Spin & Learn, also was recognized as a finalist. Ortiz is a professional table tennis champion and member of the Dominican Republic national team. Through Spin & Learn, she has delivered table tennis-based programming to more than 12,000 students across 45+ New York City public schools since 2020, with a focus on student engagement, confidence-building, and wellness, including support for students with special needs and those who do not thrive in traditional team sports.

“These alumni reflect the strength of Bronx Community College graduates as innovators and entrepreneurs who are contributing meaningfully to the Bronx and beyond” said VP of External Relations and President of the BCC Foundation Eddy Bayardelle.

Pictured L to R: Oscar Martinez, Co-Founder of Wisdom of Age; Vanessa L. Gibson, Bronx Borough President; Eddie Bayardelle, Vice President for Advancement, Communications and External Relations, Bronx Community College; Yasiris Ortiz, Founder and CEO of Spin & Learn.