The AI & Robotics Venture Fair in Pittsburgh showcased eighteen progressive companies to potential investors on September 26, marking a significant return to in-person gatherings post-pandemic. Highlighted participants included Velo.AI, Fluid Reality, and X-Hab3D, each demonstrating advancements in safety technology, haptic feedback, and 3D printing solutions respectively, reflecting the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within Pittsburgh.
On September 26, a noteworthy gathering of forty investors convened in Pittsburgh to explore investment prospects in eighteen innovative companies at the AI & Robotics Venture Fair. This premier event, organized by Carnegie Mellon University and Innovation Works for the seventh consecutive year, showcased developments in artificial intelligence and robotics. Following a period of virtual and alternative formats due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fair returned to its roots at CMU, featuring both established participants and fresh entrants. Jordan Marinkovich, the platform community manager at Innovation Works, noted a significant increase in the representation of seed and pre-seed stage companies, with five such enterprises among the presenters. Additionally, eight companies had previously engaged in the federal Build Back Better initiative. Reflecting on the prior year’s fair, Velo.AI, founded by Clark Haynes, shared progress on his innovative product, Copilot. This technological solution focuses on enhancing bicyclist safety by providing visual and audible alerts, leveraging data to inform urban planning. One year later, Velo.AI has successfully partnered with the city of Ann Arbor, secured a federal grant for research in collaboration with Pittsburgh’s POGOH bike share, and aims to broaden its reach in the future. Meanwhile, Joe Mullenbach of Fluid Reality showcased advances in haptic feedback technology through his specialized gloves, allowing users to experience touch in virtual environments. With aspirations of raising a $3.5 million seed investment, Mullenbach highlighted the recent recognition of Fluid Reality as a Fast Company Innovation Honoree. Bruce Kraselsky, introducing X-Hab3D, aims to tackle construction challenges in Alaska with pioneering mobile 3D printing solutions. Following initial funding through federal resources and partnerships with Penn State University, Kraselsky is preparing to enter full-scale production with plans for a facility near State College, having successfully raised a portion of the needed funds. These presentations not only underline the dynamic landscape of technological innovation emerging from Pittsburgh but also emphasize the collaborative spirit fostered within its entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The AI & Robotics Venture Fair is an annual event designed to connect innovative companies working within artificial intelligence and robotics with potential investors. Historically hosted by Carnegie Mellon University and Innovation Works, the fair provides a platform for entrepreneurs to present their cutting-edge products and business strategies. The event has evolved significantly, adapting to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which prompted a temporary shift to virtual formats. The return to an in-person assembly marks a renewed focus on local innovation, particularly after successful collaborations have emerged from previous iterations of the fair.
In summary, the recent AI & Robotics Venture Fair underscored the thriving entrepreneurial spirit in Pittsburgh, spotlighting key advancements in safety technology for cyclists, haptic feedback devices, and innovative construction solutions. The success of companies like Velo.AI, Fluid Reality, and X-Hab3D illustrates the potential for growth and investment opportunities within the region. As these enterprises develop their technologies and seek new partnerships, the collaborative effort between local universities and businesses promises to further enrich Pittsburgh’s reputation as a hub of innovation.
Original Source: nextpittsburgh.com
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