Alabama Launchpad, a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), in partnership with Innovate Alabama, is proud to announce that Launch Advisors have selected 11 finalists to participate in Cycle 2 2023. The finalists will compete for a combined $75,000 at a public finale scheduled to take place August 17, 2023, in Auburn, Alabama.
Alabama Launchpad features entrepreneurs in two stages of development: those in the concept stage, which are usually pre-revenue, and those in the early seed stage, looking to accelerate the growth of their existing businesses. According to Pitchbook, Alabama Launchpad is the state’s most active early seed funding source.
“We’re thrilled to provide Alabama Launchpad’s Cycle 2 2023 finalists with robust mentorship from an expert lineup of business leaders and experts,” stated Miller Girvin, Executive Vice President of Innovation & Talent at EDPA. “By providing critical funding and support to startups at the concept and early seed stages, Launchpad is building a sustainable pipeline of innovation and job creation in Alabama, which can transform the economic landscape of the state.”
To date, Alabama Launchpad has funded 114 startups and invested over $6.1 million in nondilutive funding. Its winning companies have a combined post-money valuation of over $1 billion and have generated over 1,300 jobs across the state.
The following 11 finalists were selected from a field of 32 applications, representing eight cities and towns across the state. Three companies from Auburn, the host location of this cycle’s competition, have earned spots as finalists.
The five concept stage companies competing for $25,000 are:
CheckMySpot, Inc. is a telehealth app designed to promote the early detection of skin cancer. Users upload cell phone images of a single skin lesion. The app’s dermatology providers review the photo within 24-48 hours and, if needed, expedite a referral to the user’s dermatologist or one nearby.
NanoPrintek, Inc. introduces the world’s first dry nano printer that transforms the way electronics are printed. The first-of-its-kind sustainable and supply-chain resilient technology allows pure, multi-material, multifunctional and hybrid materials printing on demand.
SwiftTrax, LLC builds innovative tech solutions for the trucking industry in an easy-to-use, automated and modular format. No new programs to download, no manual data entry, no stress on the driver’s side – just improved efficiencies.
The Gathering Lab is a new way to make human connections, removing many of the barriers placed on consumers who hope to build strong, meaningful networks. It matches diverse groups of 8-12 people based on similar interests, values and goals and invites them to have dinner together in a way that’s designed for authentic connection. Think of it as a great dinner party, where serendipity meets science.
VivoSphere, LLC creates more human-like tissue for more human-like drug response, reducing false positive drug candidates at early stages to avoid costly failure during clinical stage.
The six companies in the early seed stage, who will be competing for $50,000, are:
Autonoma, Inc. creates autonomous vehicle simulation and validation tools. It combines an AV simulator with high-bandwidth, low-latency wireless communications to allow a real vehicle to “see” a virtual environment around it. This allows for a safer transition from simulation to on- road operation because edge cases can be tested, and it is much cheaper and more efficient than current validation methods.
BluTapp is an innovative personal device enabling the remote treatment of anxiety, PTSD and trauma. Designed as a tool for clinicians and a self-guided treatment for consumers, BluTapp lowers the barriers to evidence-based mental health treatment.
CharIT, LLC is a Fintech software company modernizing a great charitable giving tool by building it on modern technology and marketing it to the masses in a simple, smart and social way.
CROUX, a former Alabama Launchpad concept stage winner, connects talent with flexible work opportunities. Formed by founders from the hospitality industry, CROUX leans on the idea that the future of the industry starts with better treatment of its people. Through flexible work and fast payment, it is serving those who serve.
Health OpX, Inc. software brings nonprofits technologically forward so they can report their impact to donors and partner with healthcare organizations. These partnerships transform nonprofits such as food pantries, diaper banks, churches and more into access points of care for underserved communities.
NIXA, Inc. is driving the future of sustainable energy by developing top-notch Level 2 EVSEs and pioneering the smart home ecosystem. Committed to Sustainability, Reliability and Ingenuity, NIXA Inc is building a greener, smarter future.
Alabama Launchpad’s Cycle 2 2023 finale will take place at The Park at Auburn University on August 17. To learn more and reserve tickets, please click here.
About Alabama Launchpad
Established in 2006, Alabama Launchpad is Alabama’s most active, early-stage seed fund investor, driving innovation and job growth through startup competitions and ongoing mentoring for Alabama entrepreneurs. Alabama Launchpad is made possible by the generous support from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, the Alabama Department of Commerce, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Caring Foundation, Wells Fargo, Alabama Power Foundation and the Daniel Corporation Foundation. It is the state’s longest running business plan and pitch competition. To learn more about Alabama Launchpad, please visit www.alabamalaunchpad.com.
About Innovate Alabama
Innovate Alabama is Alabama’s first statewide public-private partnership focused on entrepreneurship, technology and innovation with a mission to help innovators grow roots here in Alabama. Innovate Alabama was established to implement the initiatives and recommendations set forth in the Alabama Innovation Commission’s report, including smart policy solutions that will create a more resilient, inclusive and robust economy to remain competitive in a 21st-century world. With founding CEO Cynthia Crutchfield leading the charge, Innovate Alabama is also made up of a board of 11 innovation leaders appointed by Gov. Ivey, collaborating across sectors to advance industries, drive technology and facilitate an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. Learn more about Innovate Alabama at www.innovatealabama.org.
Contact:
Audrey Ferguson
812.760.1343
aferguson@edpa.org
