Six new startups are among the first class of software companies accepted into the AlphaLab program at its new state-of-the-art incubator on the South Side.
Sixty-three applicants from seven states applied in the first round to be among the 12 companies accepted into the program this year, says Rich Lunak, president and CEO of Innovation Works. “We worked with a tremendous national advisory board that helped the AlphaLab team to sift through the applications and make the final decision,” Lunak adds. “We’re really please and excited by the level of interest for this first cycle.”
AlphaLab provides companies with an initial $25,000 in funding for a six-month period, intense mentoring and free office space as they work on the development of the next generation software, game designs and Internet tools. The immersion will help startups rapidly develop technology, test and improve early releases, meet with investors and consultants and move toward the successful commercial launch of their software product.
Four of the six companies incorporated as a result of their AlphaLab acceptance. All are from southwestern Pennsylvania with the exception of Sonya Labs, which drew four people from four different states to Pittsburgh. All have agreed to maintain a significant presence in the region.
“We needed to create a hub in Pittsburgh for software, to get all these people out of their homes and garages so they might meet other people doing the same thing,” explains Matt Harbaugh, chief investment officer. “It gives them a place to bounce ideas off one another.”
The first six companies are:
BlenderHouse, a developing decision-based social media application that will allow Facebook and other users to easily solicit advice from friends on critical decisions such as which car to buy or college to attend.
Chogger, a developing comic strip creation tool that will enable users to express themselves through comic strips. Chogger hopes its website will be the ultimate place to find and create online comic strips and integrate with other websites such as photo sharing sites.
crono, developing intelligence software agents to automate and simplify communications, schedule appointments and book services.
GameHuddle, creating a social network for gamers that will help bring together players with similar interests. Users will be able to review games, blog, create microsites for clans or guilds and engage others socially as part of a community.
Skill-Life, developing a web-based video game that teaches financial literacy to middle and high school students. Players create avatars and take on real-life personas with specific occupations, homes, friends and access to capital.
Sonya Labs, creating a search engine and research tools aimed at the legal industry.
To keep abreast of the AlphaLab community, click here.
Writer: Debra Smit
Source: Rich Lunak, Matt Harbaugh and Terri Glueck, Innovation Works