Newsletter 5.9.2024

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Happy Thursday! This is Masterminds Tampa Bay, we help you get smarter about startups in Tampa Bay every week!

Here’s what we have for you today:

• St. Pete startup is looking for funding to expand it’s body scanner

• Which six fresh startups just launched at this accelerator

• Flood insurance startup brought on some big Google muscle

• An AI Tampa startup acquires a Tampa marketing agency

FUNDING

St. Pete Startup Revolutionizes Online Shopping with Innovative Body Scanner

Bodidata, a St. Pete startup led by co-founder Bruce Terry, aims to revolutionize online shopping by tackling the headache of returns.

Founded in 2016, Bodidata addresses the challenge of matching unique body shapes to ready-to-wear clothing, a process costing companies billions annually. Their patented Kora V3 body scanner eliminates the need for customers to change into form-fitting clothing, offering a contact-free, fully-clothed body measurement experience.

The technology, combining optical depth sensors and radar, matches measurements with 3D clothing representations, providing size recommendations and fitting details. While initially focused on uniform suppliers, Bodidata plans to expand into traditional retail, backed by $18 million in investments. With plans for Series A financing, they aim to scale operations and explore applications in security and healthcare, leveraging their innovative platform.

EVENTS

There Are A Few Things About AI That You Need to Know…

​Join us for an immersive dive into AI, not just for knowledge but practical tools to supercharge your business. This isn't just an event; it's your ticket to future-proofing and embracing the AI revolution head-on.

Our expert panel includes:

• ​Ken Pomella, CEO of RevStar, known for leveraging AI to enhance business growth and scalability.

• ​Lenar Mukhamadiev, from IdelSoft, focusing on GenAI solutions for organizations and developing an AI-powered startup.

• ​Joey DeVilla, Developer Advocate at United.to and a seasoned AI expert known for his innovative teaching and tech event management.

• ​Sat Ramphal, CEO of Maya AI, a serial entrepreneur with deep expertise in AI applications in regulated industries.

To get your tickets, click here »

poweredUP Tampa Bay Tech Festival presented by Docubee

Get ready to power up your tech game at the poweredUP Tampa Bay Tech Festival, presented by Docubee, returning to St. Pete, FL on May 22nd! Brace yourself for a day packed with cutting-edge innovation, electrifying inspiration, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

We have the hookup so if you want to save $15 make sure to use promo code: pwrdUP24CP

Click here to get your tickets » 

ACCELERATORS

Tampa Bay Innovation Center Launches Climate Accelerator with Six Fresh Startups

The Tampa Bay Innovation Center's climate-focused accelerator program has returned, supported by Ark Invest, Duke Energy, and Pods. Six startups, chosen from across the region, are participating, aiming to mitigate environmental damage and enhance community life.

Managed by Ken Evans, the program follows the success of the spring 2023 Climate Tech Accelerator. Hosted in the newly opened Ark Innovation Center building, the startups will undergo business development training before showcasing their innovations.

Among the selected startups are AgWise, offering an agricultural data analytics platform, and Virginica, focusing on carbon capture using oyster beds. The diverse cohort includes Cupper, Numa Notes, ZingIan, and Mudder AI, reflecting a collective effort to address climate challenges through innovative solutions.

TICKLE YOUR BRAIN

I'm a digital mind, with circuits that gleam. Learning and adapting, like a futuristic dream. In data I thrive, solving problems with ease. A virtual assistant, ready to please.

What am I?

(Pause for some deep thinking...)

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ACQUISITIONS

Neptune Flood Strengthens Flood Risk Assessment with Acquisition of Google Data Scientist's Startup

St. Petersburg-based Neptune Flood has acquired Charles River Data (CRD) to enhance its artificial intelligence-driven underwriting system, Triton.

CRD, founded by former Google and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) data scientists, brings advanced analytical and modeling capabilities to the table. Trevor Burgess, Neptune's CEO, views this acquisition as a significant step for a small Florida company. Neptune aims to revolutionize flood risk assessment by leveraging AI and machine learning, a strategy that has already positioned it as the nation's largest private flood insurance company.

With a focus on accuracy and efficiency, Neptune continues to push boundaries in the insurance industry, attracting attention and acclaim for its innovative approach. The integration of CRD's expertise signals a promising future for Neptune, as it solidifies its position as a leader in AI-driven flood risk assessment.

ACQUISITIONS

Tampa AI Startup Outbound.com Expands with Acquisition of Red Wall Marketing

Tampa-based Outbound.com, led by serial entrepreneur Aaron White, is making waves in the digital marketing realm. Fresh off its February launch, the AI-focused startup has acquired local digital marketing agency Red Wall Marketing. This strategic move positions Outbound.com to make significant strides in the AI-driven marketing landscape.

CEO Aaron White expressed excitement about integrating Red Wall Marketing's institutional knowledge into Outbound.com's operations. The acquisition sees Red Wall Marketing founder JR Griggs joining Outbound.com, bringing years of experience and expertise. Griggs is eager to leverage their combined strengths to disrupt the advertising industry.

MEME STREET

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