LOS ANGELES, April 20, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- edRover, the nation's first location-based mobile application for school fundraising, was the grand prize winner in this year's Microsoft Windows Phone Developer Fast Pitch contest held during the CTIA conference in Orlando. This recognition, valued at more than $31,000, comes just after edRover was selected by AT&T as their top award winner in the "Social Good" category of the "Open Call – Apps for All!" competition.
edRover, developed by veteran mobile marketer Tania Mulry, aims at connecting businesses and education through an innovative mobile platform. A mother of three school-age boys, Mulry created edRover out of frustration over the devastating financial cuts to education and constant fundraisers to fill the gap. She knew there had to be a better way. Nearly one year ago, she formulated the idea for edRover and began implementing the resources to make it a reality.
Dozens of app developers submitted their ideas and pitched a panel of Windows Phone judges during the Fast Pitch competition, which is designed to identify the country's cutting edge wireless applications. Microsoft selected one grand prize and two runner-up winners. As the top winner, edRover receives a co-development and marketing package worth $30,000, two Windows Phones, and a one-year complimentary membership in App Hub valued at $99.
"It is extremely satisfying for edRover to be recognized by such a prestigious market leader," said Mulry. "We are excited to see edRover coming together in a way that truly helps educators get the resources our classrooms need, and we appreciate the recognition and support of companies like Microsoft."
The edRover application is simple to use. Once downloaded, consumers can use it to make purchases from participating online retailers as well as check-in at locations throughout their communities. Every purchase or check-in results in funds being directed to provide educational supplies for the teacher or school of their choice.
Any business can have its location included in edRover or can sponsor check-ins at community locations like schools, museums, libraries, parks and other landmarks by becoming an edRover sponsor. Nearly 80 percent of consumers choose brands that support a cause, and edRover allows businesses to support education – a cause about which families are passionate.
"The school budget conundrum is one that shows no sign of letting up, which is why we all need to find ways to help provide the resources teachers need for our kids," said Mulry. "edRover allows parents and businesses to join forces in raising funds for education. In this case the solution is in the palm of your hand."
About edRover
edRover is an award-winning mobile application that aligns businesses' marketing goals with parent's dedication to their children's education and to schools' fundraising needs. The location-aware app provides a directory of caring businesses that support schools and in turn drives parents, teens and educators to those businesses. Through its partnership with ClassWish.org, parents can select the school or specific educator's wish list to which to direct the funds they generate by making purchases or checking into participating stores, restaurants and other community locations using edRover. More information can be found at http://www.edrover.com, on Facebook or on Twitter.
Carol Stevenson
661-254-4731
carolstevenson@cspr.biz
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