On October 16th, 2026, Smart Optimal Solutions (SOS) proudly showcased our vision for the future of urban living at the Lions Den in Birmingham, Alabama. Pitching alongside four other mission-driven innovators, we presented our robust solutions for sustainable Smart infrastructure to a curated group of value-aligned, accredited investors.
Featured Innovators at the Lions Den
The event highlighted companies committed to market-driven, missional enterprise. In addition to SOS America, the following organizations presented:
- Gracelyn University: A fully online, US-accredited institution credentialing low-income educators into Certified Teachers.
- Matchgrant: An AI-powered grant intelligence platform assisting nonprofits in securing funding.
- Hello Bible: An AI spiritual companion and Bible study tool designed to make scripture accessible.
- Talanton Advisors: An investment firm combatting poverty through debt and equity funds in sub-Saharan Africa.
The SOS America Presentation
Representing SOS America, Patrice Tsague, (CEO), Barry Redman (COO) and Manny Peña (National Director of Consultants) opened with a dynamic video illustrating our seamless integration of smart technology and renewable energy. We focused on translating our complex technical benefits—such as energy storage, sustainable sourcing, and smart integration—into compelling value propositions for municipalities and developers.
Watch the presentation video below:
Bridging the Capital Disconnect
Organized in 2014 by Birmingham business executives through Cedarworks, Inc., The Lions Den was created to bridge a persistent capital disconnect. High-capacity Christian investors were seeking institutional-grade opportunities, while missional, market-driven enterprises lacked access to aligned capital networks. Under the mandate to “Inspire, Educate, and Mobilize,” the founders framed business as a primary vehicle for scalable problem-solving, job creation, and Kingdom advancement.
The Quadruple Bottom Line Evaluation Framework
Unlike conventional venture capital forums that optimize purely for internal rate of return (IRR), The Lions Den evaluates opportunities through a Quadruple Bottom Line framework. This rubric mirrors our own SOS pillars of Sustainability, Efficiency, and Connectivity:
Check out how our Social Impact is creating jobs through the SOS Smart City Academy.
Looking Forward
Our bold approach to integrating faith and values into the smart city and renewable energy sector was deeply appreciated by the Lions Den investor community. At SOS, we believe that no Smart City can truly be “smart” without a robust renewable energy strategy, and this event underscored the growing demand for self-sufficient, intelligent urban design.
Join the Smart City Revolution
To learn more about investing in SOS or bringing our Smart Hybrid Streetlights, Energy Storage, and Smart City Software to your organization or community, please visit our website.
Written by Patrice Tsague – CEO of SOS America
