Startups competing for $75k in Launchpad funding

From the early detection of skin cancer to next-generation energy solutions to financial technology and robotics, Alabama Launchpad has announced finalists for Cycle 2 2023, setting the stage for an entrepreneurial showdown.

In August, those 11 handpicked finalists will take the stage in Auburn to compete for a share of $75,000 in startup funding. 

Alabama Launchpad, an initiative of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) together with Innovate Alabama, supports ventures in concept stage for pre-revenue startups and early seed stage for businesses looking to fuel their growth. 

Their track record is impressive: Launchpad has funded 114 startups with more than $6.1 million, generating over 1,300 jobs across Alabama.

“We’re thrilled to provide Alabama Launchpad’s Cycle 2 2023 finalists with robust mentorship from an expert lineup of business leaders and experts,” said 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.”

In the concept stage, five companies will compete for $25,000:

• 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. 

For the early seed stage, six companies will be competing for $50,000:

• 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 finale will take place Aug. 17 at The Park at Auburn University. Learn more and reserve tickets. 

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270