The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the way we live, work, and interact with our environment. From smart homes to smart cities, IoT technologies are driving innovation and efficiency across various sectors. By connecting devices, vehicles, and appliances through sensors and network connectivity, IoT enables these objects to collect and share valuable data. The impact of IoT is evident in numerous areas, including energy management, healthcare, environmental conservation, and commercial real estate. Start-ups in this sector are at the forefront of creating solutions that make urban spaces smarter and more efficient. This article highlights ten notable IoT start-ups making significant contributions to the IoT landscape and revolutionizing daily life.
Smart Home Solutions: Tado
Tado, founded in Munich, Germany, in 2011, is at the forefront of transforming residential energy consumption through smart thermostats and heating solutions. Under the leadership of CEO Philip Beckmann, Tado has experienced substantial growth and recognition for its efforts to make homes more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Supported by Amazon, Tado has introduced five innovative products that adhere to the Matter smart home protocol, further emphasizing its commitment to integrating technology seamlessly into everyday life. Over the years, Tado has secured impressive funding, with €43 million raised in both 2018 and 2021, underscoring the industry’s confidence in its potential.
The company’s approach to revolutionizing home heating systems demonstrates the practical application of IoT in creating sustainable living spaces. By allowing users to monitor and adjust their heating settings remotely, Tado not only ensures comfort but also significantly reduces energy waste. This integration of IoT technology into the fabric of daily living exemplifies the tangible benefits that smart home solutions can offer. As the demand for sustainable and efficient energy solutions grows, Tado’s innovative products are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of home automation and energy management.
Accelerating AI and IoT: Latent AI
Latent AI, established in 2018 in Menlo Park, California, is focused on accelerating AI and IoT implementation for enterprises. Co-founded by CEO Jags Kandasamy, the company has made significant strides in enhancing the capabilities of IoT devices through advanced artificial intelligence solutions. In 2021, Latent AI successfully raised $19 million in Series A funding, with contributions from prominent investors such as Future Ventures, Blackhorn Ventures, Booz Allen, Lockheed Martin, 40 North Ventures, and Autotech Ventures. This financial backing highlights the high expectations placed on Latent AI’s innovative approach to IoT and AI convergence.
The solutions provided by Latent AI are designed to make IoT devices smarter and more efficient, enabling them to handle complex tasks and process data more effectively. By integrating AI into IoT devices, Latent AI enhances their ability to learn, adapt, and respond to various environmental factors. This combination of AI and IoT not only improves the performance of individual devices but also opens up new possibilities for interconnected systems that can communicate and collaborate seamlessly. As enterprises increasingly adopt IoT technology, the advancements brought by Latent AI are set to revolutionize how businesses operate and manage their technological infrastructure.
IoT for Commercial Real Estate: Haltian
Originating from Finland, Haltian was founded in 2012 by five former Nokia product developers. The company provides cutting-edge IoT software and sensor solutions specifically designed for commercial real estate. Under the leadership of interim CEO Mikko Moilanen, Haltian has secured €22 million in growth funding, reflecting the growing demand for innovative solutions that enhance the management and efficiency of commercial properties. Haltian’s Empathic Building sensor, which offers digital twin solutions, has become a game-changer in the industry, providing real-time insights into building operations and improving occupant comfort.
Haltian’s technology enables property managers to monitor various aspects of commercial buildings, such as temperature, humidity, occupancy, and air quality, in real time. This data-driven approach allows for more informed decision-making and proactive maintenance, ultimately leading to lower operational costs and a better working environment for occupants. The integration of IoT solutions into commercial real estate is a prime example of how technology can transform traditional industries, making them more efficient and responsive to the needs of modern society. As the commercial real estate sector continues to evolve, Haltian’s innovative solutions are poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of smart buildings.
Cloud-Based IoT Solutions: Memfault
Founded in San Francisco in 2018, Memfault has developed a powerful platform that allows IoT device manufacturers to identify and resolve issues in edge products through cloud-based solutions. CEO François Baldassari has successfully guided the company through multiple funding rounds, with Memfault raising $24 million in Series B funding in 2023. This funding round was led by Stripes and saw participation from the 5G Open Innovation Lab, Partech, and Uncork, highlighting the confidence investors have in Memfault’s innovative approach to IoT device management.
The Memfault platform provides manufacturers with the tools needed to remotely diagnose and fix problems with their IoT devices, significantly improving their reliability and performance. By offering a cloud-based solution, Memfault allows manufacturers to deploy updates and patches quickly, ensuring that devices remain secure and functional. This proactive approach to device management not only enhances the user experience but also reduces the need for costly on-site repairs. As the number of IoT devices continues to grow, Memfault’s platform is set to become an essential tool for manufacturers looking to maintain the highest standards of quality and reliability in their products.
Gait Analytics for Rehabilitation: Plantiga
Based in Vancouver, Canada, Plantiga is an analytics start-up founded by Norman McKay and his son Quin Sandler. Specializing in gait analytics, Plantiga uses sensor-embedded footwear to analyze movement patterns, providing valuable insights for rehabilitation and injury prevention. The company’s innovative approach has garnered attention and secured deals as part of the Comcast NBCUniversal SportsTech program. By leveraging IoT technology, Plantiga is transforming the way healthcare and sports professionals assess and address movement-related issues.
Plantiga’s sensor-embedded footwear collects detailed data on gait and movement, allowing for a precise analysis of an individual’s walking patterns. This information is crucial for developing personalized rehabilitation programs and preventing injuries. The use of IoT technology in this context highlights the potential for smart devices to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life. As the demand for data-driven healthcare solutions grows, Plantiga’s innovative approach to gait analytics is set to play a significant role in shaping the future of rehabilitation and injury prevention.
Non-Invasive Heart Monitoring: Acorai
Based in Helsingborg, Sweden, Acorai was founded in 2019 with the mission to revolutionize cardiac care through non-invasive heart pressure monitoring. The company combines advanced machine learning software with cutting-edge sensing hardware to provide accurate and reliable heart pressure measurements without requiring invasive procedures. Acorai has successfully raised over $4.5 million in seed funding, along with an additional $4.5 million from the European Innovation Council, Taiwan Medical University, and private investors. This financial backing underscores the potential of Acorai’s technology to transform the field of cardiac care.
The non-invasive nature of Acorai’s heart pressure monitoring solution offers significant advantages over traditional methods, reducing the risk and discomfort associated with invasive procedures. By providing continuous and accurate monitoring, Acorai’s technology enables early detection of potential heart issues, allowing for timely intervention and better patient outcomes. The integration of IoT technology in medical devices is a testament to the potential of smart solutions to improve healthcare and enhance patient care. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, Acorai’s innovative approach to heart monitoring is poised to make a lasting impact on cardiac care.
5G IoT Coverage: Sateliot
Established in Barcelona in 2018, Sateliot aims to revolutionize global IoT connectivity through a constellation of low-Earth orbit nanosatellites. With a mission to facilitate 5G IoT coverage, Sateliot has raised €6 million for its ambitious satellite constellation project, receiving funding from Banco Santander. CEO and co-founder Jaume Sanpera is leading the charge from their base in San Diego, ensuring that Sateliot’s vision of enhanced global IoT connectivity becomes a reality. The company’s innovative approach aims to bridge the gap in connectivity, making IoT technology more accessible and reliable worldwide.
Sateliot’s nanosatellites are designed to provide continuous and seamless 5G coverage, even in remote and underserved areas. This breakthrough has the potential to unlock new opportunities for IoT applications, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, logistics, and environmental monitoring. By extending the reach of IoT networks, Sateliot is paving the way for a more interconnected world where smart devices can communicate and operate efficiently regardless of their location. As the demand for reliable and comprehensive IoT connectivity grows, Sateliot’s satellite constellation project is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of global IoT networks.
Wildfire Detection: Dryad Networks
Dryad Networks, a German climate-tech start-up, is dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of wildfire detection through innovative IoT solutions. The company employs solar-powered infrastructure combined with AI-enabled sensors to detect wildfires early and accurately. Dryad Networks has secured €6.3 million in funding, with €3.8 million from the European Regional Development Fund and €2.5 million from climate investor First Imagine. Under the leadership of CEO Carsten Brinkschulte, Dryad Networks is utilizing IoT technology to combat climate change and protect natural resources.
The AI-enabled sensors developed by Dryad Networks are capable of detecting minute changes in environmental conditions that may indicate the presence of a wildfire. This early detection capability allows for swift intervention, potentially preventing large-scale devastation. By leveraging solar power, these sensors can operate sustainably in remote and off-grid locations. Dryad Networks’ innovative approach demonstrates the powerful role IoT technology can play in environmental conservation and disaster prevention. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, the solutions provided by Dryad Networks offer a promising avenue for mitigating the impact of wildfires and preserving natural ecosystems.
Imaging Radar for Safety: Provizio
Based in Limerick, Ireland, Provizio was founded in 2019 by CEO Barry Lunn with the goal of enhancing road safety through advanced imaging radar technology. The company’s flagship product, VizioR&I, utilizes Nvidia technology to interpret vehicular behavior and identify road elements even in poor weather conditions. Provizio has teamed up with Swedish micromobility company Voi to trial e-scooter safety technology, highlighting its commitment to improving safety across various modes of transportation.
The imaging radar system developed by Provizio offers real-time data on vehicular movements, enabling better decision-making and reducing the likelihood of accidents. This technology is particularly effective in adverse weather conditions where traditional sensors and cameras may fail. By providing detailed insights into road conditions and vehicular behavior, Provizio’s radar system enhances the safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. As urban areas continue to grapple with traffic congestion and safety concerns, Provizio’s innovative approach to road safety is poised to make a significant impact on reducing accidents and improving overall transportation safety.
Bluetooth Low Energy Communication: Blecon
The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing our daily lives, transforming how we live, work, and interact with the world around us. IoT technologies, spanning from smart homes to intelligent cities, are fostering innovation and boosting efficiency across a multitude of sectors. By interlinking devices, vehicles, and appliances via sensors and network connections, IoT allows these entities to gather and exchange crucial data. The influence of IoT is prominently seen in energy management, healthcare, environmental conservation, and commercial real estate. Start-ups within this realm are pioneering solutions that contribute to smarter and more efficient urban environments. This article delves into ten remarkable IoT start-ups that are making substantial impacts on the IoT landscape, driving advancements that are reshaping our everyday experiences. Through their cutting-edge technologies, these start-ups are not only enhancing convenience but also promoting sustainability and innovation, showcasing the true potential of IoT in modern life.
