Startups

There were more applicants local to St. Louis in the finalist round this year than in the past. And the majority of the awardees came from the region.

100 startup teams were narrowed down to one during the contest's inaugural year in St. Louis. Now, Immunophotonics moves on to the San Francisco final and a chance to win $1 million.

The tests consisted of digging holes a few inches deep, and then firing a high-powered laser into those holes that measures specific soil conditions.

The prospect of precision agriculture has existed for decades, but many of the technologies and techniques that will enable it have been slow to catch on.

To keep St. Louis’ existing tech talent, some regional leaders are pushing for more support for startups. But it’s not a quick or easy fix.

Supporters of the legislation say it would help companies with the potential for high growth to more easily access early funding and help keep their innovations rooted in Missouri.

Twenty-two startups and small businesses received non-dilutive grants totaling $1,875,000.

TechSTL, St. Louis Community College and Lindenwood University received a research grant to explore data that hinder Black entrepreneurs and other innovators of color in the St. Louis region.

Gabe Angieri is the new executive director of Arch Grants which is planning to award $75,000 to roughly 25 companies this year.

ITEN's annual report shows progress for member companies despite the rough economy during the pandemic.