MassChallenge

DRB is a patented solution that provides autonomous drone inspection services of electrical transmission and distribution lines, renewable energy production sites, and infrastructures.

Jaia Robotics specializes in the development of microsized autonomous and subsurface marine vehicles intended to revolutionize aquatic data collection. The company offers a multi-sensor configurable technology that is user-friendly and requires minimal training, significantly enhancing the efficiency and affordability of data collection compared to conventional crewed or uncrewed systems. By providing comprehensive data collection services, Jaia Robotics enables clients to access valuable aquatic data with improved ease and effectiveness.

vRotors is a pioneering platform that offers real-time drone racing experiences for gamers. Utilizing traditional personal computers and virtual reality headsets, users can enter virtual cockpits and pilot real, remotely connected drones on global racing courses. The platform provides a unique blend of gaming and real-world flight, with cockpit screens displaying live footage from the drone camera, along with essential flight data such as altitude, speed, and direction. This innovative approach allows thousands of players to engage in immersive racing experiences and mission-driven combat scenarios, making vRotors a significant player in the evolving landscape of competitive gaming.

Zeppi is a company that has developed a self-navigating airborne balloon designed to enhance video communication for elderly individuals and those with impairments. Founded in 2019 and based in Montreal, Quebec, Zeppi addresses the issue of loneliness among older adults by facilitating immersive video visits that mimic in-person interactions. The device features a high-resolution screen and a self-positioning camera, allowing family members and caregivers to effortlessly "drop-in" for spontaneous chats, visual check-ins, and consultations. This technology enables users to maintain meaningful connections with loved ones, participate in appointments, and manage daily tasks with ease. By providing a lifelike presence, Zeppi helps reduce feelings of isolation and fosters engagement in social interactions.

FlyWorks Ltd., founded in 2019 and based in Beer-Sheva, Israel, specializes in developing a drone multirotor platform featuring a hybrid propulsion system designed for extended flight durations. The company’s innovative technology integrates a single internal combustion engine with small electric motors, allowing drones to carry significant payloads while maintaining a lightweight structure. This approach not only enhances performance but also ensures safety and cost-effectiveness. FlyWorks' patent-pending drive technology is versatile enough to be adapted for various drone sizes and applications, including land surveying and air-taxi services. By enabling high-resolution, multi-sensor inspections of large-scale power line infrastructure, FlyWorks aims to revolutionize the capabilities of commercial drones in multiple industries.

Resprana is empowering people around the world to own their air and protect themselves in polluted environments. Our first product is an in-nose wearable air filter.

Rigi Technologies is an innovative company focused on drone technology aimed at enhancing logistics and delivery systems. It specializes in developing advanced drone vehicles that facilitate faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly deliveries. By providing inter-city drone delivery support services, Rigi Technologies seeks to ensure that communities, governments, and private businesses have universal access to goods. Its commitment to creating next-generation logistics solutions positions the company as a leader in the evolving field of drone-assisted delivery.

UAV-IQ, which stands for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Intelligence, helps growers easily and profitably adopt some of the most advanced agricultural technology. We are an AgriTech company that leverages deep experience in large-scale drone operations and precision agriculture to develop and scale solutions for growers. The company now offers drone-based biological control (or “biocontrol”) service, a revolutionary integrated pest management (IPM) service that uses drones to efficiently release beneficial insects to control pest populations as an effective alternative to pesticides. We currently provide this service in California, and are underway in our plans to make it available in new markets in the near future. We started off as one of the first companies authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct commercial drone operations to provide crop scouting services for California vineyards, and have since grown to the point where the platform and software we built to serve our own customers has been used by drone operators on five continents to serve local growers. UAV-IQ now stands poised to scale a groundbreaking new service after a successful first year of commercial service in California. This initiative is drone-based biological control (“biocontrol”) service, a revolutionary integrated pest management (“IPM”) service that uses drones to efficiently release beneficial insects to control pest populations as an effective alternative to pesticides. Partnered with the world’s largest multinational company in the $3.8B agricultural biocontrol industry, we are underway in our plans to make this service available in new markets throughout the U.S. and beyond. We have a well-balanced team with strength in critical areas. Andreas Neuman, the CEO, was Assistant Director of Operations for the US Air Force’s first squadron operating the Global Hawk Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), which carries the most sophisticated remote sensing equipment in operation. He has successfully led multidisciplinary teams in both his civilian and military careers and has routinely been entrusted with assets valued at over $200 million and the completion of multi-million-dollar projects. He has identified and solved complex and evolving regulatory and technical issues that led to a six-fold increase in mission capability by defining and implementing new programs and policies. After separating from the military, he gained experience in the startup world as an analyst for Tech Coast Angels and earned his MBA from the Anderson School of Management at UCLA, building on credentials that include a BA in economics from Columbia University and an MA in International Relations from American Military University. Vice President of Agriculture, Robert “Bob” Starnes, joins the company with a renowned record of developing and applying innovative agriculture technology in world-class academic institutions as well as successful commercial ventures. Before joining the company, Bob was the Senior Superintendent of Agriculture at UC Davis in the Entomology Department for 15 years. While there, he managed a research lab that studied integrated pest management and remote sensing in agriculture and also founded Shale Peak Horticulture, a company offering customized biological pest management solutions to growers as an alternative to using pesticides. Thomas Grandperrin is our Director of Business Development. He has Masters Degrees in management from ESEC Barcelona and Toulouse Business School and is an alum of Start-Up Chile, where he met the UAV-IQ team. Originally from France and fluent in three languages, he has spent the last 10 years working in agriculture focusing on developing new technologies in India, Argentina, California, and Chile. He is now based out of Barcelona, Spain where he is focused on building awareness for UAV-IQ’s services and preparing for expansion into the EU. Michael Clark is an accomplished database engineer and strategist who brings expertise to the backbone of the product—its enterprise architecture. He also provides programming and developing skills which have already borne results for UAV-IQ as it builds its platforms. UAV-IQ has graduated from prominent business accelerator programs and has been advised by key faculty members and researchers at UC Davis to gain unique access to their industry-leading expertise. It has gained several prestigious awards including the Food + City Challenge at South by Southwest (SXSW), and media attention from major outlets such as CNN and AgFunder. As a result, UAV-IQ has solidified itself as a leader in an emerging industry, specializing in bridging the gap between drone flight service providers and the agriculture industry. Our goal is to continue growing UAV-IQ into an agriculture technology company that provides the infrastructure, platform, analytics and tools necessary to tackle complex agronomic, farm management and pest control challenges. Using a globally accessible cloud-based infrastructure, UAV-IQ will form the central hub for decision-makers and service providers responsible for profitably producing high-value agriculture.

Developer of unmanned aerial vehicles and multi-copter drones designed to carry heavy payloads to mountainous areas, islands, and other remote areas. The company's platform works on the design, production, operation, and maintenance of unmanned aircraft systems and provides services for civil protection, cable stretching, monitoring, multi-sensor analysis, and other personalized services, enabling clients with services that have been difficult and costly to attain.

Developer of precision agriculture and farming management systems designed for monitoring parasitic insects. The company's systems offer pest traps to be installed in the field that can photograph, recognize and count harmful insects and transmit the results obtained in real-time via smartphone and website, enabling farmers to monitor the state and health of crops and integrate control of their farms.

DriftSense specializes in advanced technology solutions aimed at minimizing pesticide drift in both residential and agricultural settings. The company has developed a monitoring device that utilizes state-of-the-art sensors to detect airborne pesticides, identify their chemical signatures, and analyze their trajectories. By integrating specific data from growers with environmental parameters, DriftSense provides tailored insights that empower agricultural operators to control their spraying applications with precision. This approach not only helps to eliminate drift issues but also enables compliance with regulations, reduces costs, and maximizes crop yields. As urbanization and agricultural changes increase exposure to airborne pollutants, DriftSense's data-driven solutions offer a critical means for growers to enhance their operational effectiveness and environmental stewardship.

DriftSense specializes in advanced technology solutions aimed at minimizing pesticide drift in both residential and agricultural settings. The company has developed a monitoring device that utilizes state-of-the-art sensors to detect airborne pesticides, identify their chemical signatures, and analyze their trajectories. By integrating specific data from growers with environmental parameters, DriftSense provides tailored insights that empower agricultural operators to control their spraying applications with precision. This approach not only helps to eliminate drift issues but also enables compliance with regulations, reduces costs, and maximizes crop yields. As urbanization and agricultural changes increase exposure to airborne pollutants, DriftSense's data-driven solutions offer a critical means for growers to enhance their operational effectiveness and environmental stewardship.

Aerospec Technologies is a Chicago-based technology company focused on developing an intelligent three-axis flight control system that can autonomously inspect, monitor and collect high-quality data in the energy industry while making operations safer and more efficient. The insights from our system allow clients to enhance the safety of all stakeholders while reducing the cost of maintaining their assets.

Beewise Technologies Ltd. specializes in the development of autonomous beehives designed to enhance beekeeping efficiency and sustainability. Founded in 2018 and based in Nahariya, Israel, the company utilizes AI-powered precision robotics to automate various beekeeping activities, significantly increasing yield and reducing colony loss while eliminating the need for chemical pesticides. Its innovative device allows beekeepers to remotely manage hives, offering features such as automated harvesting, swarm prevention, pest control, and environmental monitoring for climate and humidity. Additionally, Beewise provides a mobile application that delivers real-time updates, making it easier for beekeepers to oversee their operations with minimal human intervention.

Cloudline Africa operates autonomous airships to connect hard-to-reach communities that are disconnected from the global logistics network. Its airships fly over populated areas; track linear infrastructure, such as roads and railways; travel over people and animals; carry camera payloads and multi-sensor rigs; and show off the company brand while completing the functional role. The company was founded in 2017 and is based in Cape Town, South Africa.

PrimalBee is a company focused on the development and sale of innovative beehives designed to streamline the honey harvesting process. Their patented hive features a unique design that includes sixteen Langstroth brood frames, which facilitate easier and more efficient honey collection for beekeepers. By enhancing the traditional beekeeping experience, PrimalBee aims to support both novice and experienced beekeepers worldwide in their efforts to harvest honey with less hassle.

Manufacturer of music production instruments intended to provide products for teenagers to learn music production. The company's product is a midi drum machine and speaker combo in a cardboard box bundled with the application, sound packs, and tutorials, providing customers with a cheaper alternative to music production equipment with educational and customization aspects.

Women Who Drone is an online platform and community dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering women in the field of drone technology. The organization offers a variety of services, including personalized drone lessons, workshops, and online courses. It aims to foster a supportive environment through a global network of women and mentors who share a passion for flying drones. Additionally, Women Who Drone facilitates career opportunities and connections within the drone industry, ensuring that women have access to resources and guidance as they navigate their journeys in this evolving field. Through content creation, storytelling, and events, the platform strengthens its community and promotes the representation of women in the drone sector.

Dronistics is developing a personal and human friendly drone delivery system for last centimeter delivery to hard-to-reach places. The drone is connected to the internet via 4G modem and it is controlled by the web application of Dronistics available on any device e.g. smartphone, tablet or laptop. The delivery is fully autonomous using GPS. The software has a series of safety checks to ensure safety for people during flight and while unloading the parcel.

ROVENSO is a Swiss company established in 2016, specializing in the development and production of remotely operated robots designed for challenging environments and disaster relief scenarios. Based in Villaz-Saint-Pierre, Switzerland, with additional facilities in Shenzhen, China, the company focuses on advanced solutions for security and safety monitoring. Its flagship product, ROVéo, is a four-wheeled autonomous robot that operates continuously, providing effective surveillance for industrial sites and warehouses. ROVéo enhances security by detecting intrusions, thefts, and safety hazards such as fires, liquid or gas leaks, and equipment malfunctions. In addition to ROVéo, ROVENSO is developing LISéo, a lightweight immersive control station, as part of its research and development efforts. The company's innovative technologies aim to deliver cost-effective alternatives to traditional manned security, ensuring a safer environment for various applications.

Cleo Robotics is developing a revolutionary new drone technology designed specifically for indoor applications.

Nodar, Inc. specializes in manufacturing advanced sensors for various transportation modes, including cars, trucks, drones, ships, trains, and aircraft. The company offers innovative LiDAR technology and a 3D stereo vision system called Nodar Longbow, which is designed to enhance the capabilities of autonomous vehicles. Founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, Nodar aims to provide a cost-effective and high-performance solution for the automotive, marine, and railway industries. Their products, including the Hammerhead system, utilize off-the-shelf cameras to deliver precise depth sensing, targeting applications for level 3 and level 4 autonomous vehicles. This technology supports functions such as collision warning, path planning, and automatic emergency braking, contributing to improved safety and performance in the automotive sector.

Developer of pest monitoring platform designed to leverage modern computational power to mitigate the harmful effects of insects and to enhance the beneficial impact of insects. The company's platform specializes in pest detection, real-time classification, intelligent analytics, and labor-saving, thereby helping users with optical sensor technology to automate the process of real-time insect classification and counting to manage pesticides judiciously, save money, and reduce crop loss.

AirWorks Solutions, LLC, founded in 2017 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, specializes in aerial mapping and surveying software tailored for the construction industry. The company emerged from MIT in 2018 and has developed a patented algorithm and web application that transforms aerial datasets into engineering base plans compatible with CAD systems. This innovative software streamlines the surveying process, allowing land developers and engineers to evaluate more job sites efficiently and significantly reducing the time required for data processing. By automating the conversion of aerial data, AirWorks enables clients to avoid the need for local processing resources and extensive training, ultimately accelerating project timelines and enhancing productivity in construction planning and acquisition.

D-Fend Solutions A.D. Ltd., based in Ra'anana, Israel, specializes in the design and development of autonomous counter-drone systems that provide comprehensive perimeter security. The company's technology automatically detects, identifies, and intercepts unauthorized commercial drones, allowing clients to effectively manage drone threats. Their system offers capabilities such as forensic extraction, location tracking, and the ability to take control of rogue drones, ensuring that these devices can be safely landed in designated areas. D-Fend Solutions serves a diverse clientele, including airports, prisons, military and secret service agencies, media organizations, and various infrastructure sectors, enhancing the security of stationary perimeters against drone intrusions.

Developer of surveillance drones designed to monitor crop growth. The company's drones provide automated pest detection and control using real-time thermal surveillance, enabling farmers to avoid crop loss.

Skypull is developing an altitude wind power system based on a fully autonomous drone that captures the energy from the strong, abundant and constant altitude winds through a ground-based generator. Skypull has proprietary, high-efficiency and resilient airframe that makes it more deployable and versatile than its competitors.

Strayos Inc. is a technology company that specializes in aerial data analytics software, specifically for the mining, drilling, blasting, quarrying, and oil and gas exploration industries. Founded in 2016 and based in St. Louis, Missouri, Strayos has developed an advanced platform that utilizes image processing and artificial intelligence to provide users with comprehensive data analysis. The platform offers tools such as smart drill data analysis, which employs measurement-while-drilling techniques for real-time data on drill logs and rock properties, and the 3D Blast Profile, which optimizes blast patterns and facilitates post-blast volume reconciliations. Additionally, Strayos provides Muckpile and Rock Size Analysis through its AI platform, which accurately assesses rock size distribution using machine learning techniques. By leveraging aerial intelligence, Strayos aims to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety in various industries.

LYF Rescue Drone is a company focused on enhancing avalanche victim recovery through innovative technology. Each year, approximately 150 skiers lose their lives in avalanches, and traditional search methods involving avalanche victim detectors often result in slow and variable outcomes due to human factors. LYF has developed a portable drone system that autonomously locates buried victims, thereby significantly reducing search times and minimizing the potential for human error. By efficiently contacting rescue teams and providing precise victim localization, LYF Rescue Drone aims to improve survival rates for those caught in avalanches, addressing a critical need in winter sports safety.

Sea Machines Robotics, Inc. is an autonomous technology company based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializing in the development of autonomous control and navigation systems for the commercial marine and boating industries. Founded in 2014, the company creates advanced control systems for vessels, including unmanned surface vessels, aimed at enhancing operational safety and productivity on the water. Its product offerings include the SM300, which allows for remote command of vessels; the SM200, which supports collaborative vessel operations; the SM400, an AI-powered situational awareness system for container ships; and the RC NXT, which enables wireless control of existing or new marine vessels. Additionally, Sea Machines provides the DP-NXT system, which upgrades traditional vessels for reduced or zero crew operations. The company also delivers solutions for unmanned applications such as bathymetric survey vessels, subsea asset inspections, and acoustic monitoring, thereby improving efficiency and safety in challenging marine environments.

RFISee is focused on developing advanced radar technology aimed at enhancing the safety and functionality of autonomous vehicles, drones, and robots. The company is creating the world's first 4D imaging radar on a single chip, which features high-resolution, low-cost radar sensors. These sensors are capable of generating real-time 3D location and velocity maps of surrounding objects, thereby facilitating greater automation in driving. RFISee's innovative approach is set to disrupt the transportation industry by enabling safer vehicles and introducing new business models. The technology is particularly well-suited for the autonomous car market, which is experiencing rapid growth, as radar systems are reliable in various weather and lighting conditions, making them a preferred choice in military and defense applications.

LahakX specializes in developing software solutions for autonomous spraying drones designed for agricultural applications. Founded in 2017 and based in Ramat HaSharon, Israel, the company enables operators to control a fleet of up to six drones that can efficiently spray crops. Their technology allows for both comprehensive coverage of farms and targeted "spot spraying" to minimize chemical usage. LahakX's solutions aim to enhance productivity while reducing labor, operational, and service costs, ultimately improving safety for agricultural operations. The company offers its technology as a complete solution for growers or as a spraying service, with commercial operations in the United States initiated in 2023.

FLYX.Systems develops technological platforms for the new IUAS, fully autonomous, no human intervention. They are creating the infrastructure for a new generation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, fully autonomous, reliable and redundant for industrial applications that will expand aerospace productivity for both rural and urban areas. They have designed a landing platform that allows "industrial drones" to land, recharge and take­off without human intervention/error in a matter of seconds. Applications include package transportation, mapping, day/night security, agriculture, quick response, and a big ETC.

Hydromea is a developer of a portable underwater robotics ecosystem designed to enhance access to submerged assets and data in underwater environments. The company offers a scalable multi-robot inspection and sensing system that can be permanently installed at sea or deployed from mobile autonomous crafts. This technology is equipped with in-house developed sensors that can be customized for various drones, enabling efficient data collection both onshore and offshore. Hydromea's focus on portability, affordability, and ruggedness allows its systems to withstand hostile underwater conditions, facilitating regular inspections, environmental measurements, and emergency responses. By providing faster data points at low costs, Hydromea delivers valuable insights to companies operating in marine environments.

Zombait is a pioneering manufacturer of robotic fishing lures designed to revitalize dead bait, making it appear alive to attract fish effectively. By utilizing an innovative mechanism, Zombait enhances the fishing experience by simulating the movement of an injured fish. The product is user-friendly; fishermen simply insert the lure into the mouth of the dead bait and attach it to the hook. Zombait's lures are retrievable, reusable, and feature a long battery life, making them efficient tools for anglers. With a corrosion-resistant outer case, these lures are built to endure harsh aquatic environments and can operate at depths of up to two hundred feet, allowing fishermen to save time and resources while improving their catch rates.

Distran GmbH, founded in 2013 and based in Zurich, Switzerland, specializes in the development of advanced acoustic sensors designed to detect leaks in real-time from a safe distance. As a spin-off from the Autonomous System Lab at ETH Zurich, the company focuses on enhancing industrial safety and minimizing environmental impact through innovative sound sensing technology. Distran's phased-array sensors address the limitations of traditional acoustic sensors, which often struggle with background noise in industrial settings. By spatially filtering sounds, these sensors enable the precise localization of defects, such as leaks and discharges, thereby reducing risks for workers and promoting safer industrial practices.

Airscort focuses on developing advanced drone docking stations that facilitate fully autonomous operations for commercial drones. Its products are compact, reliable, and cost-effective, featuring military-grade materials and various integrated technologies, including sensors, temperature control units, and precision landing systems. These docking stations enable drones to perform critical missions without human involvement, positioning Airscort as a key player in the expanding drone industry, which is valued at $150 billion. The company's solutions cater to diverse sectors, including defense, energy, and agriculture, allowing clients to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs through improved utility and automation.

Aerotain specializes in creating engaging entertainment experiences at live events through innovative aerial advertising. The company has developed a lightweight interactive airship drone that floats above crowds, displaying digital advertisements in various formats such as placards, banners, and posters. This unique approach allows brands to enhance their visibility and marketing efforts from an elevated position, making it particularly effective in busy areas, sports venues, and shopping locations. By combining technology and creativity, Aerotain provides a platform for brands to promote newly launched products and engage with audiences in a memorable way.

Bird.i collates and disseminates the best of the world’s satellite, airborne and drone imagery in real time, in order to provide insights and data to businesses globally. The high quality, frequency and accuracy of Bird.i’s images are superior even to the likes of Google Maps, meaning that clients can efficiently monitor changes and trends on the ground, helping companies solve problems, make important decisions, gain competitive advantage and plan for the future.

They develop and manufacture robust commercial UAV LiDAR and photogrammetry platforms for Telecom, Utilities, Engineers, Surveyors and more.

Hydroswarm is building data infrastructure for the world's oceans.

D-Orbit S.r.l. is an Italian company that specializes in satellite solutions, focusing on the design, development, launch, commissioning, and decommissioning of satellites. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Sesto Fiorentino, Italy, D-Orbit aims to provide innovative technologies for the safe disposal of artificial satellites at the end of their operational life, thereby reducing space debris. The company serves satellite owners and operators, offering products and services that enhance the efficiency and reliability of satellite missions while minimizing costs. D-Orbit also emphasizes the social and environmental benefits of its solutions, striving to streamline all phases of satellite operations. With approximately 35 employees, D-Orbit has expanded its reach with subsidiaries in Washington, DC, and Lisbon, Portugal.

Most surveillance systems rely on humans to identify threats while attending to a large set of disparate camera feeds. Our “Pancam” disrupts this operational surveillance model by capturing and analyzing real-time, 3D, 360⁰ panoramic video. The autonomous surveillance enabled by the Pancam will lead to tremendous facility cost savings and safety improvements. It'll significantly impact the $100M addressable video analytics market and can be used in other apps, from robotics to entertainment.

Rotary Robotics is an engineering company dedicated to bringing aerial photography to the masses. They specialize in product development and R&D of autonomous technologies. They have experts in flight robotics, embedded systems, airframe design, control systems and rapid prototyping.

Driveway is a cloud-based technology company focused on enhancing driver safety and aiding auto insurers in assessing risk. It offers a telematics platform that utilizes patented artificial intelligence to automatically measure driving behaviors through smartphones, eliminating the need for additional hardware. By leveraging sensor fusion, machine learning, and AI algorithms, Driveway provides insurers with detailed data on driving performance, which enhances pricing intelligence and promotes lower loss ratios. This innovative approach supports the Usage-Based Insurance model, making it easier and more cost-effective for insurers to roll out driver safety programs. The platform not only rewards safe driving but also helps ordinary drivers improve their habits without complications, fostering a safer driving environment.