Roadi, a parking app created by Opeyemi “Ope”Thomas, a student in the University of Baltimore’s Merrick School of Business, was one of 10 finalists in the inaugural “Light City Baltimore” pitch competition for new companies. Roadi was one of five startups in the sustainability category. The competi­tion was part of Light City U, an innovation conference that was held late March in various locations around Baltimore city.

Thomas is a junior in the Merrick School of Business. He is part of the school’s Entrepreneurship Fellows program, and served as president of the UB Investment Society last academic year. He is also the CEO of Roadi.

The mobile Roadi app delivers street parking recommendations based on historical and real-time data. Thomas said the app is now available in the Apple app store. The App launched on IOS platform on July 8. The soft launch with take place in August at UB’s Welcome Week. Thomas is receiving support for his company via the school’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, working with its team to develop a viable business model and network with business developers in Baltimore. The center also is advising Thomas on his pitch to potential investors.

“I’m always interested in learning new things,” Thomas said. “I’m very persistent in reaching for my goals and I enjoy building relationships with others.”

Read about the competition in the Baltimore Business Journal.

Learn more about Roadi.

Learn more about the Entrepreneurship Fellows program and the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.