The United Inventors Association (UIA) proudly organized another successful Inventors Spotlight at the 2025 PGA Show from January 21st-24th, giving a platform and educating some of the most innovative new products in the golf industry. With 56 booths and 51 inventors participating in our renowned Pitch the Pros® competition, this year’s event was a true celebration of creativity and entrepreneurship.
Each year, the Inventors Spotlight Awards recognize outstanding golf inventions that are new to the golf industry. These awards celebrate the passion, perseverance, and ingenuity of independent inventors and provide an incredible platform to engage with the golf community. This year, our secret panel of UIA judges visited each booth and selected winners in four key categories: Most Innovative, Best Marketing, Best Product Pitch (new category), and Overall Winner.
And the winners are…
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 24: Carmine Denisco poses with Most Innovative Concept award winners Upswing Golf CEO Justin Giles and Upswing Golf CTO Kevin Mayoux alongside PGA Show staff Chris Gruttadauria on stage for the Inventors Spotlight Awards during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Friday, January 24, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/PGA of America)
Most Innovative: UpSwing Golf
UpSwing Golf clubs are designed to grow with young golfers, ensuring a consistent feel and performance as they develop their skills. Created out of a father’s frustration with low-quality junior clubs, UpSwing’s adjustable-length clubs offer exceptional quality, precision, and confidence-building features. With insights from professional golfers and expert craftsmanship, these clubs are a game-changer for young players.
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 24: Carmine Denisco poses with Best Marketing award winner Puttbuddies CEO Chris Nolin alongside PGA Show staff Chris Gruttadauria on stage for the Inventors Spotlight Awards during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Friday, January 24, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/PGA of America)
Best Marketing: PuttBuddies
PuttBuddies has revolutionized the humble divot tool, turning it into a collectible, personality-filled golf accessory. Their unique character designs, durable materials, and first-of-their-kind collaborations—like their officially licensed Barbie-themed divot tool with Mattel—set them apart in the market. With custom artwork and high-quality enamel finishes, PuttBuddies delivers a product that’s both functional and fun.
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 24: Carmine Denisco poses with Best Product Pitch award winner VannyVee Sports Founder Vanessa Vanderzalm alongside PGA Show staff Chris Gruttadauria on stage for the Inventors Spotlight Awards during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Friday, January 24, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/PGA of America)
Best Product Pitch: VannyVee Sports
VannyVee Sports captured the crowd with their engaging and compelling pitch, showcasing their Animal Caddy Golf Tee Holders. These eye-catching accessories add personality and style to any golf bag, with bold and playful designs that make them both a statement piece and a practical addition to a golfer’s gear. Their presentation was not just about the product—it was an experience that resonated with the audience and judges alike.
ORLANDO, FL – JANUARY 24: Carmine Denisco poses with Pinnacle Pitch award winners Tubr Managing Partner Brad Jersey and partner Robert Danese alongside PGA Show staff Chris Gruttadauria on stage for the Inventors Spotlight Awards during the PGA Show at Orange County Convention Center on Friday, January 24, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/PGA of America)