In addition to learning from startups that are currently killing it, Denver Startup Week is about learning what’s new and what’s next. We’re going to be keeping an eye out for these startups in the coming year, and we suggest that you do too.
Photo: Facebook
ezpz
Based in Parker, ezpz is one of two Denver-area startups chosen as finalists in a contest to win a 30-second commercial during the 2016 Super Bowl. Founded by a mom who was sick of her kids tossing their dishes off the table, ezpz offers silicone placemat/dish-in-one products that suction to surfaces, therefore lowering the chances of a mealtime mess. According to the Denver Business Journal, ezpz projects $3 million in sales in 2016 and $10 million in 2017 — certainly a sign of an ambitious future.
Photo: Sword & Plough
Sword & Plough
Founded by sisters who grew up in a military family, Sword & Plough repurposes military surplus fabric into various types of bags, from totes to backpacks. The online shop even employs several Veterans as designers, models and managers. As the other Denver-area finalist in the Super Bowl ad contest, Sword & Plough is in a good position to start the new year on a high note.
Photo: Facebook
ParkiFi
After its initial round of funding last December, this parking solutions startup raised another $2 million this year, bringing their total funding to more than $4 million. Because they’re making sensors and corresponding technology that will tell people if parking spots are occupied — for cheaper than ever before — they’re getting attention from national news outlets like CNNMoney. That, coupled with a recent decision to bring their parking sensors to two “top-tier” cities, ParkiFi has a lot to look forward to in the next year.
Photo: YouTube
BDS Analytics
It’s no secret that the cannabis industry is smoking hot. Co-founded by experienced market researchers, BDS Analytics offers “sophisticated, sales-based data” to cannabis entrepreneurs who might need some sales wisdom as they navigate their newest business endeavors. The startup recently closed its first round of funding with $1.5 million, and in the next year, it’ll be well on its way to take on whatever the industry brings next.
Photo: Kickstarter
Revolar
Revolar, a personal safety wearable, allows users to send their location (via mobile app) to their loved ones with a click of a button. Launched with a pre-order Kickstarter in March, the Revolar team is currently assembling the devices for production and shipment to supporters starting early next year. Revolar has plans for additional services and subscriptions in 2016, such as voice recording and the option to call police instead of friends or family. Even though the startup has been at work for over a year, Revolar’s proper introduction to customers will surely make the next year an interesting one.
If you haven’t caught any Denver Startup Week events so far, here’s our handy guide to why you totally should. And hey, who knows? Maybe you’ll walk away with an even longer list of startups to watch. The future is now, Denver dogs.
