25 high potential startups to access global network of support and resources in Rhode Island
PROVIDENCE, MAY 15, 2019 – MassChallenge, a global network of zero-equity startup accelerators, today announced the 25 early-stage startups that have been accepted into the 2019 MassChallenge Rhode Island program. Representing the most-promising solutions across industries, this year’s cohort was selected from more than 250 applications from 25 U.S. states and 39 countries around the world.
“In partnership with major stakeholders across the state, we are unleashing a new model for economic and community transformation which will help Rhode Island fortify its entrepreneurial ecosystem,” said Hope Hopkins, Program Director of MassChallenge Rhode Island. “These 25 startups bring a tangible energy to that effort. It is exciting that Rhode Island is becoming known as a destination for startups from around the world, in addition to helping homegrowth startups scale.”
MassChallenge Rhode Island has activated a community of investors, entrepreneurs, corporate executives, academics, and more to evaluate applications based on each startup’s ability to demonstrate impact. Of the 25 startups selected:
- 36 % are high tech
- 24 % are general, retail and consumer goods
- 20 % are healthcare and life sciences
- 16 % are social impact
- 4 % are cleantech and energy
Reflective of the organization’s efforts to foster a more inclusive ecosystem, MassChallenge is also proud to share that 56% of the Rhode Island cohort has at least one female founder.
As part of the 2019 MassChallenge Rhode Island cohort, startups will have unrivaled access to a powerful network of expert mentors, tailored curriculum, free office space, and top corporate partners – all at zero cost and for zero equity. In addition to support from the Rhode Island innovation community, startups in the 2019 MassChallenge Rhode Island accelerator will also have the opportunity to tap into MassChallenge’s global network. At the culmination of the program on October 24, these startups will also compete for shares of more than $100K in cash prizes at the MassChallenge Awards ceremony.
2019 MassChallenge Rhode Island Cohort
HIGH TECH
Artisans List (Rhode Island, USA): Connecting people with traditional home restoration, craftsmanship & farm-to- tables sources through an online niche directory.
ESM.Zone (Ukraine): Providing the opportunity to play, win and work at the same time by automating every esports-ready experience.
GreenChoice, PBC (Massachusetts, USA): Empowering consumers to buy healthy and safe food that meets their dietary needs, made by brands that share their values, for the best deal.
Griptiller (Massachusetts, USA): Griptiller moves underwriting data, tailored for the insurance industry.
IderaOS (Rhode Island, USA): Developing an e-commerce platform builder that allows anyone to easily create an online store, designed for small and medium-sized businesses.
Leadovate (Pennsylvania, USA): Providing personalized admissions strategy for college applicants to increase their chances of acceptance and financial aid.
Legably (Rhode Island, USA)
SAYge (Connecticut, USA)
Zamp (Massachusetts, USA)
HEALTHCARE / LIFE SCIENCES
BI Medical LLC (Rhode Island, USA): Developing medical devices that address bacterial/fungal issues, skin irritation & odor with orthotic and prosthetic users.
Intus Care (Rhode Island, USA)
Norka Health (Rhode Island, USA)
Quantitative to Qualitative Health (Rhode Island, USA): Converting health data into simple diagrams to empower its users to make better health decisions.
GENERAL / RETAIL / CONSUMER GOODS
AirAdvisor (Ukraine): Providing flight compensation services worldwide.
BUPPY PETS (Rhode Island, USA): Creating 4 ingredient dog treats inspired by the human snacks we love, but recreated making them healthier for owners and pets alike.
FitBites (Massachusetts, USA): Making high-protein, low-calorie, low-carb, low-sugar treats.
goTeff (Rhode Island, USA): Using Teff—a super-food from Ethiopia, with a vision to sell Teff products in US while investing in Ethiopian farmers.
Invent Boston (Massachusetts, USA)
Uproot Inc. (Rhode Island, USA)
SOCIAL IMPACT
CONBODY (New York, USA): Developing a prison style fitness bootcamp that hires formerly incarcerated individuals to teach fitness classes.
Impact Everything (Rhode Island, USA): Creating a movement to educate consumers on sustainable purchases and build new generations of active global citizens.
Pangea.app (Rhode Island, USA): Building the resume of the 21st century. We are the first recruiting platform built upon a freelance marketplace.
Tarteel (Massachusetts, USA): Developing tools and apps using machine learning technology to enhance Muslims’ relationship with their faith and holy book; the Quran.
CLEANTECH / ENERGY
H2Ok Innovations (Rhode Island, USA): Using AI and new data collection methods to empower communities with cost saving decisions that ensure sustainable access to clean water.
Celebrating 10 Years
Now in its 10th anniversary year, MassChallenge Inc. has continued to scale its high impact model around the world, with operations in Boston, Israel, Mexico, Rhode Island, Switzerland, and Texas. In addition, the organization experienced significant industry growth with its later stage vertical accelerators MassChallenge FinTech and MassChallenge HealthTech.
About MassChallenge
MassChallenge is a global network of zero-equity startup accelerators. Headquartered in the United States with locations in Boston, Israel, Mexico, Rhode Island, Switzerland, and Texas, MassChallenge is committed to strengthening the global innovation ecosystem by supporting high-potential startups across all industries, from anywhere in the world. To date, more than 1,900 MassChallenge alumni have raised more than $4 billion in funding, generated more than $2.5 billion in revenue, and created more than 120,000 total jobs.
Rhode Island Partners
Adler Pollock & Sheehan, Amica Mutual Insurance, CVS Health, Delta Dental of Rhode Island, FM Global, Hasbro, Rhode Island Commerce Corporation.
With support from Loft LLC and Gilbane Building Co.