Innovation Works

Innovation Works is a venture capital firm based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, established in 1999. With over 20 years of experience, it has become a key player in Southwestern Pennsylvania's technology economy, focusing on investing in high-potential companies that can significantly impact the regional economy. As the largest investor in seed-stage companies in the region, Innovation Works supports a diverse range of sectors, including robotics, artificial intelligence, medical devices, retail technologies, and enterprise software. In addition to financial investment, the firm offers business expertise and resources to help manufacturers adopt new technologies, further fostering innovation and growth within the local economy.

Sophie Burkholder

Investment Associate

Kevin Dowling Ph.D

Managing Director of Robotics Factory and Hardware

Peter Erin

Senior Investment Associate

Aaron Tainter

Director of Accelerator Programs

Steven Welles

Managing Director of Software

Past deals in Industrial Automation

CapSen Robotics

Seed Round in 2024
CapSen Robotics, Inc. specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that empower computers and robots to effectively interpret and navigate the cluttered physical world. Founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops a range of solutions including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking. These technologies are applicable across various sectors such as factory automation, vehicle scanning and measuring, and retail inventory management. CapSen Robotics leverages cutting-edge research from MIT to enhance the capabilities of robotic systems, enabling them to operate in less structured environments like hospitals, warehouses, and homes. The company is currently collaborating with system integrators and robotics firms on applications that involve robotic picking and has partnered with a leading government contractor for warehouse applications. Their innovations are poised to have a significant impact across consumer, industrial, and defense markets.

Journey Robotics

Pre Seed Round in 2024
Journey Robotics is an aerospace engineering firm focused on developing automation tools designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of airline operations. The company aims to streamline processes related to loading, unloading, and handling passenger cargo, thereby improving overall operational efficacy within the aviation sector. Currently, Journey Robotics is operating in stealth mode, indicating a focus on research and development before a public launch of its innovative solutions.

Phlux Technologies

Seed Round in 2023
Phlux Technologies, founded in 2020 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in developing innovative 3D sensor technology for industrial robotics and automation. The company's core products are programmable 3D sensors that enhance safety and efficiency by enabling robots to navigate effectively, protecting workers from hazards, and detecting obstacles. Phlux Technologies' proprietary optical sensing technology, combined with artificial intelligence and computer vision, creates digital safety zones around machinery, optimizing floor space usage and reducing setup times.

Leaficient

Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Leaficient is a technology company that specializes in energy-saving solutions for Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). It develops and deploys low-cost cameras and sensors that monitor plant biometrics and growth, enabling clients to optimize energy usage and enhance crop yield and quality predictably.

Voaige

Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Voaige is a company specializing in the development of advanced robotics and automation software, aimed at addressing labor shortages in various industries. Founded by a team of AI PhDs and robotics engineers from Carnegie Mellon University, Voaige focuses on utilizing cutting-edge artificial intelligence to tackle complex real-world challenges. Their versatile robotic arms are designed to be safe and affordable, making them accessible for diverse applications. Additionally, Voaige's deep space artificial intelligence platform empowers robotic developers to automate tasks that were previously deemed impossible, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs for clients. Through its innovative solutions, Voaige is committed to transforming the landscape of automation and artificial intelligence in production and business environments.

Grasp Robotics

Non Equity Assistance in 2023
Grasp Robotics is evolving into a robotics firm with a wide range of robotic solutions targeted to certain sectors and applications where robots are unable to perform critical jobs.

Leaficient

Seed Round in 2023
Leaficient is a technology company that specializes in energy-saving solutions for Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). It develops and deploys low-cost cameras and sensors that monitor plant biometrics and growth, enabling clients to optimize energy usage and enhance crop yield and quality predictably.

Voaige

Seed Round in 2022
Voaige is a company specializing in the development of advanced robotics and automation software, aimed at addressing labor shortages in various industries. Founded by a team of AI PhDs and robotics engineers from Carnegie Mellon University, Voaige focuses on utilizing cutting-edge artificial intelligence to tackle complex real-world challenges. Their versatile robotic arms are designed to be safe and affordable, making them accessible for diverse applications. Additionally, Voaige's deep space artificial intelligence platform empowers robotic developers to automate tasks that were previously deemed impossible, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs for clients. Through its innovative solutions, Voaige is committed to transforming the landscape of automation and artificial intelligence in production and business environments.

CapSen Robotics

Seed Round in 2022
CapSen Robotics, Inc. specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that empower computers and robots to effectively interpret and navigate the cluttered physical world. Founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops a range of solutions including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking. These technologies are applicable across various sectors such as factory automation, vehicle scanning and measuring, and retail inventory management. CapSen Robotics leverages cutting-edge research from MIT to enhance the capabilities of robotic systems, enabling them to operate in less structured environments like hospitals, warehouses, and homes. The company is currently collaborating with system integrators and robotics firms on applications that involve robotic picking and has partnered with a leading government contractor for warehouse applications. Their innovations are poised to have a significant impact across consumer, industrial, and defense markets.

Phlux Technologies

Seed Round in 2022
Phlux Technologies, founded in 2020 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in developing innovative 3D sensor technology for industrial robotics and automation. The company's core products are programmable 3D sensors that enhance safety and efficiency by enabling robots to navigate effectively, protecting workers from hazards, and detecting obstacles. Phlux Technologies' proprietary optical sensing technology, combined with artificial intelligence and computer vision, creates digital safety zones around machinery, optimizing floor space usage and reducing setup times.

Phlux Technologies

Seed Round in 2021
Phlux Technologies, founded in 2020 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in developing innovative 3D sensor technology for industrial robotics and automation. The company's core products are programmable 3D sensors that enhance safety and efficiency by enabling robots to navigate effectively, protecting workers from hazards, and detecting obstacles. Phlux Technologies' proprietary optical sensing technology, combined with artificial intelligence and computer vision, creates digital safety zones around machinery, optimizing floor space usage and reducing setup times.

Identified Technologies

Seed Round in 2020
Identified Technologies Corporation specializes in self-piloting aerial mapping and land survey drones, providing comprehensive data scanning, capture, access, and analytics solutions. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops technologies that enhance project visibility and team productivity across various industries, including energy, mining, manufacturing, and construction. Its offerings include advanced features such as 3-D volumetric analysis, 2-D distance measurement, contour line mapping, and digital surface models. The platform also facilitates job site tracking, as-built versus as planned comparisons, and progress forecasting, enabling businesses to improve project monitoring and profitability.

Farm Jenny

Seed Round in 2020
Farm Jenny LLC is an agricultural technology company based in Mars, Pennsylvania, specializing in wearable technology and sensor-based equipment for farm animals. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on enhancing animal health and productivity, as well as ensuring handler safety and operator satisfaction, particularly for small to mid-sized farms. Farm Jenny's innovative products enable users to monitor the behavior and health of their animals through behavior-tracking wearables and strategically placed sensors across the farm. The company also offers a subscription service that uses machine learning and predictive analytics to provide real-time alerts and recommendations to farmers' smartphones, ultimately helping them to improve productivity and safeguard their livestock.

CapSen Robotics

Seed Round in 2020
CapSen Robotics, Inc. specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that empower computers and robots to effectively interpret and navigate the cluttered physical world. Founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops a range of solutions including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking. These technologies are applicable across various sectors such as factory automation, vehicle scanning and measuring, and retail inventory management. CapSen Robotics leverages cutting-edge research from MIT to enhance the capabilities of robotic systems, enabling them to operate in less structured environments like hospitals, warehouses, and homes. The company is currently collaborating with system integrators and robotics firms on applications that involve robotic picking and has partnered with a leading government contractor for warehouse applications. Their innovations are poised to have a significant impact across consumer, industrial, and defense markets.

Rapid TPC

Seed Round in 2020
Rapid TPC, LLC is a manufacturer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that specializes in the development of an automated platform technology for producing thermoplastic composite parts. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on creating lightweight, high-strength components using advanced materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, and aramid fibers. Rapid TPC employs automation in its production processes to efficiently manufacture composite parts reinforced with various polymers and organic fibers. This innovative approach enables clients to overcome production bottlenecks, scale their sales volumes, and meet increasing demand without the constraints typically associated with manufacturing limitations. Through its expertise in forming and prototyping, Rapid TPC supports a range of industries seeking durable and lightweight solutions.

Farm Jenny

Seed Round in 2019
Farm Jenny LLC is an agricultural technology company based in Mars, Pennsylvania, specializing in wearable technology and sensor-based equipment for farm animals. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on enhancing animal health and productivity, as well as ensuring handler safety and operator satisfaction, particularly for small to mid-sized farms. Farm Jenny's innovative products enable users to monitor the behavior and health of their animals through behavior-tracking wearables and strategically placed sensors across the farm. The company also offers a subscription service that uses machine learning and predictive analytics to provide real-time alerts and recommendations to farmers' smartphones, ultimately helping them to improve productivity and safeguard their livestock.

Identified Technologies

Seed Round in 2018
Identified Technologies Corporation specializes in self-piloting aerial mapping and land survey drones, providing comprehensive data scanning, capture, access, and analytics solutions. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops technologies that enhance project visibility and team productivity across various industries, including energy, mining, manufacturing, and construction. Its offerings include advanced features such as 3-D volumetric analysis, 2-D distance measurement, contour line mapping, and digital surface models. The platform also facilitates job site tracking, as-built versus as planned comparisons, and progress forecasting, enabling businesses to improve project monitoring and profitability.

CapSen Robotics

Seed Round in 2018
CapSen Robotics, Inc. specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that empower computers and robots to effectively interpret and navigate the cluttered physical world. Founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops a range of solutions including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking. These technologies are applicable across various sectors such as factory automation, vehicle scanning and measuring, and retail inventory management. CapSen Robotics leverages cutting-edge research from MIT to enhance the capabilities of robotic systems, enabling them to operate in less structured environments like hospitals, warehouses, and homes. The company is currently collaborating with system integrators and robotics firms on applications that involve robotic picking and has partnered with a leading government contractor for warehouse applications. Their innovations are poised to have a significant impact across consumer, industrial, and defense markets.

Rapid TPC

Seed Round in 2018
Rapid TPC, LLC is a manufacturer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that specializes in the development of an automated platform technology for producing thermoplastic composite parts. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on creating lightweight, high-strength components using advanced materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, and aramid fibers. Rapid TPC employs automation in its production processes to efficiently manufacture composite parts reinforced with various polymers and organic fibers. This innovative approach enables clients to overcome production bottlenecks, scale their sales volumes, and meet increasing demand without the constraints typically associated with manufacturing limitations. Through its expertise in forming and prototyping, Rapid TPC supports a range of industries seeking durable and lightweight solutions.

Velocity Robotics

Seed Round in 2018
Velocity Robotics, Inc. is a construction technology company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, established in 2015. The company develops and manufactures advanced construction workflow tools and automated positioning systems that leverage robotics and Internet of Things technology. Their products are designed to enhance precision and efficiency in various construction tasks, including on-site and prefabricated metal stud framing, decorative panel installation, and finish carpentry. By integrating automation and measurement capabilities, such as Bluetooth tape measures and smart miter saw fences, Velocity Robotics aims to eliminate human error, improve productivity, and reduce material waste in the commercial construction sector. Their innovative solutions enable project managers to track team performance and material utilization effectively, thereby streamlining workflows across the organization.

Farm Jenny

Seed Round in 2018
Farm Jenny LLC is an agricultural technology company based in Mars, Pennsylvania, specializing in wearable technology and sensor-based equipment for farm animals. Founded in 2017, the company focuses on enhancing animal health and productivity, as well as ensuring handler safety and operator satisfaction, particularly for small to mid-sized farms. Farm Jenny's innovative products enable users to monitor the behavior and health of their animals through behavior-tracking wearables and strategically placed sensors across the farm. The company also offers a subscription service that uses machine learning and predictive analytics to provide real-time alerts and recommendations to farmers' smartphones, ultimately helping them to improve productivity and safeguard their livestock.

Watt-Learn

Seed Round in 2018
Watt-Learn, Inc. is a Pittsburgh-based company that specializes in developing software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions for grid-connected battery installations in the energy sector. Established in 2016, the company leverages artificial intelligence to enhance the lifespan and performance of energy storage systems. Its software autonomously optimizes battery operations based on user-defined criteria, thereby maximizing the return on investment for energy storage projects while minimizing degradation due to cycling. Watt-Learn serves a diverse clientele, including battery original equipment manufacturers, system integrators, and commercial and industrial end users, as well as utility companies. Through its innovative platform, Watt-Learn aims to improve the operational efficiency and economic viability of battery technologies across various applications.

Onward Robotics

Venture Round in 2017
Onward Robotics specializes in innovative automation technology that integrates humans and robots into a unified system, aimed at transforming fulfillment processes. The company offers a solution called Meet Me, which combines proprietary software with mobile robots designed for person-to-goods operations. This technology enhances efficiency in warehousing, distribution, and e-commerce by enabling robots to navigate human-centric environments, accurately identify and pick items, and operate at speeds comparable to human workers. As a result, Onward Robotics provides organizations with increased productivity, flexibility, and speed, helping them maintain a competitive edge in the logistics and manufacturing sectors.

Identified Technologies

Venture Round in 2017
Identified Technologies Corporation specializes in self-piloting aerial mapping and land survey drones, providing comprehensive data scanning, capture, access, and analytics solutions. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops technologies that enhance project visibility and team productivity across various industries, including energy, mining, manufacturing, and construction. Its offerings include advanced features such as 3-D volumetric analysis, 2-D distance measurement, contour line mapping, and digital surface models. The platform also facilitates job site tracking, as-built versus as planned comparisons, and progress forecasting, enabling businesses to improve project monitoring and profitability.

SolePower

Convertible Note in 2016
SolePower creates a connected work boot that helps industrial workers become safer and more efficient. Industrial worksites are dangerous and dynamic; the costs of small inefficiencies add up quickly, and big mistakes can result in serious incidents or loss of life. SmartBoots aim to lower incident rates, increase work site visibility, and establish metrics from which workflow and safety improvements can be made. At the core of the system is an Army-tested, patented kinetic charger which uses walking motion to sustainably charge sensors embedded inside the boot. (Pilot unit includes GPS, Ultra Wideband, RFID, IMU, Sub-GHz RF, thermocouple, Wifi, altimeter). SolePower's mission is to take the functionality of a variety of standalone wearables and combine them into a single, compact, self-charged platform. The team is partnered with SR Max (a leading safety footwear provider) and the US Army.

CapSen Robotics

Angel Round in 2016
CapSen Robotics, Inc. specializes in advanced 3D computer vision systems that empower computers and robots to effectively interpret and navigate the cluttered physical world. Founded in 2016 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops a range of solutions including cluttered object detection, scanning for both large and small objects, and object tracking. These technologies are applicable across various sectors such as factory automation, vehicle scanning and measuring, and retail inventory management. CapSen Robotics leverages cutting-edge research from MIT to enhance the capabilities of robotic systems, enabling them to operate in less structured environments like hospitals, warehouses, and homes. The company is currently collaborating with system integrators and robotics firms on applications that involve robotic picking and has partnered with a leading government contractor for warehouse applications. Their innovations are poised to have a significant impact across consumer, industrial, and defense markets.

Rapid TPC

Seed Round in 2016
Rapid TPC, LLC is a manufacturer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that specializes in the development of an automated platform technology for producing thermoplastic composite parts. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on creating lightweight, high-strength components using advanced materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, and aramid fibers. Rapid TPC employs automation in its production processes to efficiently manufacture composite parts reinforced with various polymers and organic fibers. This innovative approach enables clients to overcome production bottlenecks, scale their sales volumes, and meet increasing demand without the constraints typically associated with manufacturing limitations. Through its expertise in forming and prototyping, Rapid TPC supports a range of industries seeking durable and lightweight solutions.

Onward Robotics

Seed Round in 2015
Onward Robotics specializes in innovative automation technology that integrates humans and robots into a unified system, aimed at transforming fulfillment processes. The company offers a solution called Meet Me, which combines proprietary software with mobile robots designed for person-to-goods operations. This technology enhances efficiency in warehousing, distribution, and e-commerce by enabling robots to navigate human-centric environments, accurately identify and pick items, and operate at speeds comparable to human workers. As a result, Onward Robotics provides organizations with increased productivity, flexibility, and speed, helping them maintain a competitive edge in the logistics and manufacturing sectors.

SolePower

Seed Round in 2015
SolePower creates a connected work boot that helps industrial workers become safer and more efficient. Industrial worksites are dangerous and dynamic; the costs of small inefficiencies add up quickly, and big mistakes can result in serious incidents or loss of life. SmartBoots aim to lower incident rates, increase work site visibility, and establish metrics from which workflow and safety improvements can be made. At the core of the system is an Army-tested, patented kinetic charger which uses walking motion to sustainably charge sensors embedded inside the boot. (Pilot unit includes GPS, Ultra Wideband, RFID, IMU, Sub-GHz RF, thermocouple, Wifi, altimeter). SolePower's mission is to take the functionality of a variety of standalone wearables and combine them into a single, compact, self-charged platform. The team is partnered with SR Max (a leading safety footwear provider) and the US Army.

Identified Technologies

Seed Round in 2015
Identified Technologies Corporation specializes in self-piloting aerial mapping and land survey drones, providing comprehensive data scanning, capture, access, and analytics solutions. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops technologies that enhance project visibility and team productivity across various industries, including energy, mining, manufacturing, and construction. Its offerings include advanced features such as 3-D volumetric analysis, 2-D distance measurement, contour line mapping, and digital surface models. The platform also facilitates job site tracking, as-built versus as planned comparisons, and progress forecasting, enabling businesses to improve project monitoring and profitability.

Identified Technologies

Seed Round in 2014
Identified Technologies Corporation specializes in self-piloting aerial mapping and land survey drones, providing comprehensive data scanning, capture, access, and analytics solutions. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company develops technologies that enhance project visibility and team productivity across various industries, including energy, mining, manufacturing, and construction. Its offerings include advanced features such as 3-D volumetric analysis, 2-D distance measurement, contour line mapping, and digital surface models. The platform also facilitates job site tracking, as-built versus as planned comparisons, and progress forecasting, enabling businesses to improve project monitoring and profitability.

RE2 Robotics

Pre Seed Round in 2014
RE2 Robotics, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a Carnegie Mellon University spin-off founded in 2001 by Jorgen Pedersen. The company specializes in the development of intelligent mobile manipulation systems that enhance remote interaction with various environments, including ground, aerial, and underwater settings. Its innovative robotic technologies are designed to improve safety and efficiency across multiple industries, including aviation, construction, defense, energy, and medical sectors. RE2 Robotics primarily serves military clients, having deployed over 400 robotic arms for explosive ordnance disposal missions. The company's intuitive systems and advanced autonomy capabilities enable users to perform dangerous tasks remotely, thereby enhancing worker safety and reducing operational costs.

SolePower

Seed Round in 2013
SolePower creates a connected work boot that helps industrial workers become safer and more efficient. Industrial worksites are dangerous and dynamic; the costs of small inefficiencies add up quickly, and big mistakes can result in serious incidents or loss of life. SmartBoots aim to lower incident rates, increase work site visibility, and establish metrics from which workflow and safety improvements can be made. At the core of the system is an Army-tested, patented kinetic charger which uses walking motion to sustainably charge sensors embedded inside the boot. (Pilot unit includes GPS, Ultra Wideband, RFID, IMU, Sub-GHz RF, thermocouple, Wifi, altimeter). SolePower's mission is to take the functionality of a variety of standalone wearables and combine them into a single, compact, self-charged platform. The team is partnered with SR Max (a leading safety footwear provider) and the US Army.

The Efficiency Network

Series A in 2013
The Efficiency Network, Inc. is a Pittsburgh-based company specializing in energy efficiency improvement services for various types of buildings, including commercial, healthcare, industrial, and government facilities. Founded in 2012, the company offers a comprehensive range of services that include facility benchmarking, project finance coordination, performance contracting, and asset value optimization. Its innovative approach combines industry expertise with advanced technology, leveraging cloud computing and mobile applications to streamline project delivery and enhance building performance. The Efficiency Network also provides specialized programs such as LED street lighting solutions for municipalities and energy bill efficiency initiatives. By focusing on customized, turn-key projects, the company aims to help clients meet their financial, operational, and sustainability goals while making energy efficiency accessible to a broader audience. As a subsidiary of Duquesne Light Holdings, Inc., it collaborates with a network of regional partners, ensuring effective execution of its services.

The Efficiency Network

Seed Round in 2013
The Efficiency Network, Inc. is a Pittsburgh-based company specializing in energy efficiency improvement services for various types of buildings, including commercial, healthcare, industrial, and government facilities. Founded in 2012, the company offers a comprehensive range of services that include facility benchmarking, project finance coordination, performance contracting, and asset value optimization. Its innovative approach combines industry expertise with advanced technology, leveraging cloud computing and mobile applications to streamline project delivery and enhance building performance. The Efficiency Network also provides specialized programs such as LED street lighting solutions for municipalities and energy bill efficiency initiatives. By focusing on customized, turn-key projects, the company aims to help clients meet their financial, operational, and sustainability goals while making energy efficiency accessible to a broader audience. As a subsidiary of Duquesne Light Holdings, Inc., it collaborates with a network of regional partners, ensuring effective execution of its services.

RedZone Robotics

Venture Round in 2004
RedZone Robotics, Inc. is a company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with an additional office in Auckland, New Zealand, specializing in wastewater asset management solutions. Founded in 1987, it provides a range of services including multi-sensor inspection, advanced pipeline assessment, and specialized reporting. The company develops proprietary robotic and software tools designed for the wastewater industry, enabling municipalities, contractors, and engineering firms to effectively manage their sewer pipeline systems. By offering high-performance inspection products and data collection services, RedZone Robotics empowers clients to make informed maintenance and capital expenditure decisions, ultimately maximizing their return on investment and reducing the risk of system failures.
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