Techstars

The Folklore Connect is a B2B marketplace that offers a comprehensive platform for fashion, beauty, and homeware suppliers, allowing them to manage and scale their wholesale operations efficiently. The company provides tools for order management, payment processing, communication, and logistics, facilitating seamless interactions between suppliers and retailers. By connecting diverse and sustainable brands with small to medium-sized businesses and enterprise retailers, The Folklore Connect creates a wholesale marketplace where retailers can discover and shop a wide range of products. This approach supports brands in global markets while promoting accessibility and sustainability within the wholesale sector.

Craftle is a technology company that specializes in AI-driven interior design. Its platform uses artificial intelligence to provide personalized furniture recommendations, creating custom mood boards based on user preferences and budget. Users can visualize furniture arrangements in their space using augmented reality, explore different design options, and make informed purchasing decisions to enhance their living environments.

Omnee is a company focused on enhancing the homeownership experience by building long-term relationships with homeowners. It achieves this through its personal property management application, which aims to reduce the stress, effort, and time homeowners spend on maintenance tasks. By managing both ongoing upkeep and one-time repairs or improvements, Omnee ensures that clients have a seamless and efficient homeownership journey.

Gohaus is an AI-powered platform designed to enhance home furnishing and renovation experiences for homeowners. By acting as a virtual decorator, it provides users with customization tools, personalized product recommendations, and moodboard visualizations that reflect real-time stock availability. The platform connects with retailers to ensure that users receive up-to-date information on product availability and purchasing options. Additionally, Gohaus employs a predictive data model that categorizes products into various decorative styles, aligning them with the needs of both customers and partnering companies. This approach not only empowers homeowners to realize their design visions but also enables businesses to reach a broader audience by connecting them with qualified professionals for home improvement projects.

Direct-to-consumer bedding brand

DMS Creative Curtains & Blinds Pty Ltd stands at the forefront of the soft furnishing business, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technologies. Our commitment to innovation is exemplified by the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in our premium-quality products and services. Harnessing the power of modern technologies, we elevate the standard of craftsmanship in the window furnishings industry. Our specialized expertise lies in creating high-quality, custom-made, and luxurious window dressings that redefine the concept of home decor. By incorporating AI and ML, we bring a level of precision and sophistication to our offerings that is unparalleled in the market. What sets us apart is our dedication to providing a seamless and personalized experience for our clients. The use of AI allows us to analyze and understand individual preferences, ensuring that each product is tailored to meet specific requirements and tastes. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also maximizes functionality and efficiency. All our products proudly bear the label "Made in Australia," symbolizing our commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and contributing to the growth of the Australian economy. Operating with pride in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs, DMS Creative Curtains & Blinds is synonymous with quality, innovation, and a touch of technological prowess. Our extensive range of Australian-made window dressing options is complemented by a diverse selection of fabrics, catering to a wide spectrum of preferences. Whether it's classic elegance, modern minimalism, or bold avant-garde designs, our AI-driven approach ensures that every product meets the highest standards of excellence. At DMS, we invite you to explore the seamless fusion of traditional artistry and technological innovation. Experience the future of window furnishings with our AI/ML-infused creations, where each product tells a story of craftsmanship, precision, and a commitment to transforming your living spaces into expressions of luxury and style.

Sway Home specializes in providing carefully curated home goods, including linens, furniture, and décor. The company focuses on sourcing high-quality items that enhance the aesthetic and functionality of living spaces. By vetting its products, Sway Home ensures that customers receive reliable and stylish options for their homes. This commitment to quality and selection positions Sway Home as a trusted destination for consumers seeking to elevate their interior environments.

Idyllo is a curated home improvement marketplace designed to assist individuals in enhancing the aesthetic and functional aspects of their homes. The platform enables users to share their specific preferences and goals, subsequently providing referrals and specialist support tailored to their needs. By connecting homeowners, renters, and businesses, Idyllo fosters collaboration aimed at improving living spaces while promoting environmental sustainability.

Fable is a retail company specializing in the manufacture and supply of premium tableware and home decor products. The company focuses on creating dinnerware made by skilled artisans from recycled clay, emphasizing simple, timeless, and responsible designs. Fable is committed to producing items that are both aesthetically pleasing and ethically sourced, aiming to transcend fleeting trends with its elegant offerings. The brand's vision centers on crafting products that provide enjoyment while adhering to principles of sustainability and craftsmanship.

Improovy is a digitally-native managed marketplace that connects homeowners with vetted painting contractors. The company facilitates painting services by leveraging technology and data to streamline the renovation process from start to finish. Improovy eliminates inefficiencies associated with traditional estimate writeups, client acquisition, and payment tracking, allowing homeowners to easily find, hire, and collaborate with qualified painting professionals. The platform enhances the user experience by controlling the entire end-to-end service cycle, ensuring a seamless interaction between clients and contractors.

Dobby is a leading home services platform that connects homeowners with top-tier professionals for renovations and maintenance. Utilizing vertical AI and a focus on customer experience, Dobby ensures high-quality work guaranteed through a few simple taps.

Modal Living specializes in modular housing solutions designed to enhance living standards while promoting sustainability. The company offers customizable homes constructed from recycled materials, aiming to maximize space, generate passive income, and increase property value for homeowners.

Renno is a platform focused on the procurement of renovation materials, designed to enhance the experience of home updates. It facilitates professionals in finding competitive material prices, planning their projects, and operating more efficiently. The platform streamlines the modern renovation process by providing design templates, cost estimates, and access to contractors, while also enabling the online delivery of necessary materials. In doing so, Renno empowers customers to effectively transform their living spaces.

Sheets & Giggles, Inc. is a Denver-based company that specializes in manufacturing and selling sustainable bedding products, particularly eucalyptus lyocell sheets and comforters. Founded in 2017, the company has established itself as a direct-to-consumer brand known for its eco-friendly approach and commitment to sustainability, having planted tens of thousands of trees as part of its initiatives. Sheets & Giggles has gained recognition for its innovative products, including being awarded "Best Overall" sheets by Good Housekeeping in March 2021. The company’s offerings also include pillows and mattresses, all designed to provide comfort while promoting environmentally responsible practices. By selling its products online, Sheets & Giggles aims to enhance customers' sleep experiences with high-quality, plant-based bedding solutions.

Fable is a retail company specializing in the manufacture and supply of premium tableware and home decor products. The company focuses on creating dinnerware made by skilled artisans from recycled clay, emphasizing simple, timeless, and responsible designs. Fable is committed to producing items that are both aesthetically pleasing and ethically sourced, aiming to transcend fleeting trends with its elegant offerings. The brand's vision centers on crafting products that provide enjoyment while adhering to principles of sustainability and craftsmanship.

Kichezz has built a price comparison platform that connects customers with the best carpenters to find best prices to build kitchens. Company produces an accurate price comparison by knowing customer preferences with a questionnaire, because each style, material or product types are priced differently. Each carpentry shop undergoes a rigorous inspection process that includes research on the materials it works with, the level of service and customer satisfaction.

Renno is a platform focused on the procurement of renovation materials, designed to enhance the experience of home updates. It facilitates professionals in finding competitive material prices, planning their projects, and operating more efficiently. The platform streamlines the modern renovation process by providing design templates, cost estimates, and access to contractors, while also enabling the online delivery of necessary materials. In doing so, Renno empowers customers to effectively transform their living spaces.

The Folklore Connect is a B2B marketplace that offers a comprehensive platform for fashion, beauty, and homeware suppliers, allowing them to manage and scale their wholesale operations efficiently. The company provides tools for order management, payment processing, communication, and logistics, facilitating seamless interactions between suppliers and retailers. By connecting diverse and sustainable brands with small to medium-sized businesses and enterprise retailers, The Folklore Connect creates a wholesale marketplace where retailers can discover and shop a wide range of products. This approach supports brands in global markets while promoting accessibility and sustainability within the wholesale sector.

Kousso is a developer of a digital home management platform aimed at enhancing the experience of property owners by centralizing vital home information. The platform offers users easy access to important details such as paint colors, air filter sizes, appliance information, and building materials. In addition to aggregating essential data and documents, Kousso provides personalized maintenance planners that include suggested monthly activities and insights on future replacements and repairs. Moreover, it equips homeowners with tools for budgeting maintenance and estimating home values, along with straightforward mortgage payment scenarios. By leveraging this comprehensive approach, Kousso strives to simplify home management and empower property owners to maximize their investment.

Improovy is a digitally-native managed marketplace that connects homeowners with vetted painting contractors. The company facilitates painting services by leveraging technology and data to streamline the renovation process from start to finish. Improovy eliminates inefficiencies associated with traditional estimate writeups, client acquisition, and payment tracking, allowing homeowners to easily find, hire, and collaborate with qualified painting professionals. The platform enhances the user experience by controlling the entire end-to-end service cycle, ensuring a seamless interaction between clients and contractors.

Fable is a retail company specializing in the manufacture and supply of premium tableware and home decor products. The company focuses on creating dinnerware made by skilled artisans from recycled clay, emphasizing simple, timeless, and responsible designs. Fable is committed to producing items that are both aesthetically pleasing and ethically sourced, aiming to transcend fleeting trends with its elegant offerings. The brand's vision centers on crafting products that provide enjoyment while adhering to principles of sustainability and craftsmanship.

DwellSocial, Inc. is a Chicago-based company that operates an online platform designed to connect homeowners with contractors for various home projects and services. Founded in 2017, the platform facilitates professional referrals from users and group members, enhancing job opportunities within communities. Additionally, DwellSocial empowers neighborhoods by aggregating demand for meals from local restaurants, enabling pop-up dining experiences in suburban areas. This approach allows restaurants to expand their service areas, reach new customers, and optimize delivery logistics by consolidating orders from nearby patrons. By leveraging community engagement, DwellSocial aims to enrich local economies and improve access to both home services and dining options.

Bloominous is the largest wedding and event floral supplier in the United States, specializing in providing affordable floral solutions for various occasions. The company offers a range of products, including DIY floral kits and designer bouquets, which are accompanied by photo-instruction cards and videos to assist customers in creating their own floral arrangements. Bloominous leverages a nationwide network of floral partners to ensure that customers receive assembled and delivered florals for their events. By combining handcrafted design with cost-effective options, Bloominous aims to enhance the experience of planning and executing memorable events.

Sheets & Giggles, Inc. is a Denver-based company that specializes in manufacturing and selling sustainable bedding products, particularly eucalyptus lyocell sheets and comforters. Founded in 2017, the company has established itself as a direct-to-consumer brand known for its eco-friendly approach and commitment to sustainability, having planted tens of thousands of trees as part of its initiatives. Sheets & Giggles has gained recognition for its innovative products, including being awarded "Best Overall" sheets by Good Housekeeping in March 2021. The company’s offerings also include pillows and mattresses, all designed to provide comfort while promoting environmentally responsible practices. By selling its products online, Sheets & Giggles aims to enhance customers' sleep experiences with high-quality, plant-based bedding solutions.

Dobby is a leading home services platform that connects homeowners with top-tier professionals for renovations and maintenance. Utilizing vertical AI and a focus on customer experience, Dobby ensures high-quality work guaranteed through a few simple taps.

Caribshopper operates an online shopping platform designed to connect Caribbean manufacturers, creators, and artisans with customers globally. Founded in 2016 and based in Miami, Florida, the company curates a diverse range of products, including food items, beauty products, apparel, jewelry, and home décor. By facilitating direct purchases from international online retailers, Caribshopper enables consumers to buy Caribbean-made products easily and securely using an affordable payment system. This marketplace not only supports local businesses but also enhances the visibility of Caribbean culture and craftsmanship to a worldwide audience.

Kwambio partners with designers to produce customizable homeware and accessories using proprietary software for ceramic and metal manufacturing. Headquartered in New York, it was founded in 2014 by Vlad Usov and Dmitriy Krivoshey.

Fazta is a mobile application to supercharge home improvement for homeowners and contractors for their businesses. It was founded in 2018 and is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

PreFix is a home maintenance service provider and platform focused on preventive maintenance and on-demand repair for residential systems. It offers services for appliances, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, including inspections, cleaning, replacements, and safety devices, primarily serving homeowners and landlords in Austin, Texas. The company operates a platform that facilitates booking and dispatch of maintenance and repair personnel for minor issues such as plumbing, HVAC failures, and appliance problems, with the aim of reducing maintenance-related hassles and costs for homeowners and property managers. Founded in 2013 and based in Austin, PreFix positions itself as a local, preventive maintenance provider that can handle routine tune-ups and urgent repairs to keep homes functioning smoothly.

Blueprint Registry is an innovative ecommerce platform that allows users to create personalized wish lists and shop based on the layout of their homes. Originally focused on weddings to validate its concept, the company has expanded its services to offer a comprehensive wedding planning experience. This includes a free wedding website, a one-stop registry, guest list management, and various planning resources. By redefining the gifting experience, Blueprint Registry aims to make it more convenient, personal, and visually engaging for its users.

HomeHero, Inc. is a home care agency based in Santa Monica, California, specializing in non-medical services for families in need of support within their homes. Founded in 2013, the company provides a comprehensive array of services including personal care, companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transitional care, care management, medication management, and transportation. HomeHero also implements safe transition home programs that facilitate secure rides and transitions for patients moving from hospitals to their homes. Additionally, the company offers The HomeHero Collaborative, a care management platform designed to enhance connectivity between hospitals, health plans, and home care services. HomeHero serves individual families across major California cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Orange County, effectively bridging the gap between healthcare and home life through a combination of technology and compassionate care.

Kwambio partners with designers to produce customizable homeware and accessories using proprietary software for ceramic and metal manufacturing. Headquartered in New York, it was founded in 2014 by Vlad Usov and Dmitriy Krivoshey.

Twist Home is a consumer electronics company focused on enhancing smart home experiences through user-friendly, plug-and-play devices. The company aims to simplify the installation process by creating products that do not require additional infrastructure or new wireless networks. Twist Home's innovative approach involves designing smart home devices that fit the form factor of a lightbulb, allowing for easy installation akin to changing a lightbulb. Their flagship product, the Twist Speaker, integrates LED lighting, adaptive lighting technology, and wireless audio into a single unit, thereby offering a multifunctional solution that improves quality of life in residential environments.

Given Goods Company is the marketplace for beautiful, high-quality products that give back. By curating thousands of products that all make a tangible social impact, from tote bags and jewelry to home décor, Given Goods is redefining the consumer retail experience. Brands both established and emerging are feeling massive upward consumer demand for products that create meaningful social impact. Given Goods is already working with 115 brands and offering over 1,200 products and 4,500 SKUs in order to connect mainstream consumers to high-quality products that give back. Buying social impact products today is the equivalent of buying natural and organic foods 10 years ago—consumers wanted them but they were incredibly difficult to find. Whole Foods changed that. They captured an emerging yet fragmented market to create an enduring movement. Given Goods is driving the next large scale shift in consumer behavior.

NConnex is a technology company focused on enhancing the home furnishing industry through innovative visualization and 3D sensing solutions. By enabling furniture buyers to virtually test products before purchasing, NConnex helps consumers make informed decisions. Their mobile-based technology allows users to scan their rooms and digitally place furniture within those spaces, creating an interactive shopping experience. NConnex gained recognition as one of the 11 selected companies for Microsoft's Kinect Accelerator program in 2012, highlighting its potential to transform the way consumers engage with home furnishings.

BrighNest is a free online resource that provides people the tools, tips and motivation they need to keep their homes in great shape. BrightNest also has a product for real estate professionals that helps them increase repeat business and referrals. (brightnestpro.com)