Bay Angels Alumni Making Waves: A Look at Recent Success Stories
Welcome to the first of many blog posts in this series where we spotlight some of the most exciting companies that have come through the Bay Angels pipeline over the past few years. In the fast-paced world of startups and venture capital, success stories often emerge from the strategic collaborations and investments facilitated by organizations like Bay Angels. As we cross into the second half of 2024, let’s look back on 6 outstanding Bay Angels pitch event alumni that have made some remarkable accomplishments in the first half of this year.
1. Trace3D’s $2 Million Funding Round
In April, Trace3D, a cutting-edge tech startup specializing in 3D modeling and visualization software, announced a major milestone — a $2 million pre-seed funding round led by Rev1 and Impellent Ventures. Trace pitched at Bay Angels in our January 2024 virtual pitch event and shared how their no-code technology empowers business to create highly detailed and realistic simulations. This funding injection will fuel Trace3D’s continued innovation in the fields of AR and 3D technology, allowing them to expand and scale their operations to meet growing market demands.
2. QuarkXR’s Seed Funding Success
Another outstanding startup that works with AR and VR is QuarkXR, which pitched with Bay Angels in-person in March of 2023. QuarkXR develops software and tools that allow companies to integrate AR into their operations, enhancing training, marketing, and customer engagement experiences. In February of this year, QuarkXR secured around €225,000 in seed funding from New Vision 3, a testament to the market’s confidence in their AR solutions. This funding will empower QuarkXR to further develop their AR platform, bringing immersive experiences to industries ranging from education to entertainment.
3. OtisHealth’s Vibrant Presence at Vive 2024
OtisHealth, a healthcare startup dedicated to leveraging technology for wellness solutions that pitched with Bay Angels in our virtual April 2023 pitch event, made waves in February 2024 by being featured in and sponsoring the prestigious Vive 2024 healthcare conference. This platform at Vive allowed OtisHealth to showcase their innovative approach to healthcare, which involves using personalized data insights and virtual care options to help individuals manage and improve their health. OtisHealth’s experience at Vive 2024 paves the way for future partnerships and collaborations.
4. Algoface’s Success in Microsoft for Startups Program
Algoface, an AI-driven facial recognition company, has been on a winning streak since the beginning of the year. Algoface, which pitched in a virtual Bay Angels event in July of 2023, develops algorithms and software to enable facial recognition for various applications, including security systems, access control, and personalized user experiences. Not only did they gain acceptance into Microsoft for Startups program in April, but they’ve also secured numerous grants totalling $425,000 since the beginning of this year through the National Science Foundation and as an awardee of the 2023 Arizona Innovation Challenge. This recognition and support validates Algoface’s technological prowess and market potential, positioning them as a key player in the facial recognition landscape.
5. Berri Organics’ Sports Sponsorship
Berri Organics, a startup that produces organic, environmentally friendly beverages made from high-quality fruits and vegetables, made a splash in February by sponsoring the World Jai-Alai League. Bay Angels was privileged to have Berri Organics pitch last year in our May 2023 pitch event. This strategic partnership with the World Jai-Alai League not only increased Berri Organics’ brand visibility but also aligned them with the values of athleticism, health, and competition, resonating with their target audience.
6. Loopie’s Acquisition of Bidbud
Finally, Loopie, a company specializing in e-commerce laundry services, strengthened its market position in March by acquiring Bidbud, a competitor in the online bidding space. In May, Loopie then sold its Seattle and Portland operations to HappyNest and Rinse, paving the way for more innovation while upholding the same great service. Loopie Laundry, which pitched virtually in Bay Angels’ April 2023 pitch event, provides mobile app-based laundry services that prioritize convenience, eco-friendly practices, and quality care. These strategic sales and acquisitions will help Loopie to continue to expand and improve its services.
Bay Angels is so excited for what is coming next for these innovative startups! Bay Angels continues to be a catalyst for achievements such as these, nurturing promising startups and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem through connecting groundbreaking startups with experienced investors. If you’re a founder looking to pitch with Bay Angels, please click here for more information. If you would like to become a Bay Angels member, whether you’re a first time investor or an experienced angel, please click here or reach out to our memberships team at memberships@bayangels.com. Bay Angels is proud to host monthly pitch nights featuring some of the most cutting edge startups and veteran investors. We look forward to seeing you at future events!
About the Author: Allison Chow, Junior Member at Bay Angels
Allison has been a junior member at Bay Angels since 2023. She is excited about all things business and is currently working on obtaining her degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance.
