started Rise of the Rest,” Case says. “The success of companies outside of Silicon Valley, like ExactTarget and Epic, has surprised some. People who think you can’t build interesting companies in the Midwest now see otherwise. I like to remind investors that it requires more work—you have to get on a plane—but the opportunities are there.”
The pitch events and fireside chats at each Rise of the Rest stop are free and open to the public, but seating is limited; click here to reserve a spot. To learn more about the startups pitching in Ann Arbor, Indianapolis, and Green Bay, read on.
Ann Arbor (Oct. 11)
—Civionics: Wireless sensors to track the efficiency and condition of manufacturing equipment.
—Genomenon: Analytics and data visualization software for the genomics industry.
—Inmatech: Next-generation supercapacitors for efficient power management.
—Pitstop: Connected maintenance platform that helps predict vehicle failures before they happen.
—Sahi Cosmetics: Custom makeup for tan and olive skin tones.
—SkySpecs: Predictive, automated, drone-based maintenance for energy infrastructure.
—SurClean: Laser surface prep that removes paint, replacing traditional methods.
—Warmilu: Non-electric blankets to protect preemies from hypothermia, especially in developing nations.
Indianapolis (Oct. 12)
—120WaterAudit: Home kits and online platform to analyze water quality.
—Canvas: Text-based interviewing platform for job candidates and recruiters.
—DemandJump: Predictive marketing platform using artificial intelligence to help companies determine the allocation of brand-building resources.
—Design My Soap: Online soap-making studio that allows customers to choose their ingredients.
—Fuzic: In-store, location-based audio marketing.
—Go Electric: Distributed energy storage for utility, government, and industrial customers.
—myCOI: Automated certificate of insurance compliance tracking.
—PoliticalBank: One-stop informational website for voters, elected officials, and political candidates.
—Quantifi: Research and development platform for marketers.
—Torchlite: Customer relationship management for freelancers and the businesses that hire them.
Green Bay (Oct. 17)
—65 Incorporated: Individualized Medicare enrollment guidance without any insurance sales.
—Ideawake: Idea management software that allows companies to tap into the wisdom of their workforce.
—Illumyx: Diagnoses internal barriers to corporate growth, engagement, and productivity.
—In Our Hands: App that allows people and businesses to weigh in prior to a draft bill becoming state law.
—Indigenous Pact PBC: Unified health coverage for all eligible tribal members.
—Lanehub: Social network for fleet vehicles, connecting companies with complementary freight lanes.
—OrendX: Platform to help nurses engage through positive recognition and collaboration.
—Scanalytics: Internet-connected floor mats to help track foot traffic and other activity in physical spaces.
