Revolutionizing Civic Innovation: CU Denver's Smart Futures Lab Graduates Showcase Groundbreaking SolutionsThe University of Colorado Denver's Smart Futures Lab incubator and accelerator programs are set to showcase the remarkable achievements of 10 companies that have completed their intensive six-month journey. These innovative startups have developed cutting-edge solutions designed to address pressing challenges faced by municipalities and local governments across the nation.

Empowering Cities with Transformative Technologies

Detecting Sewer Leaks with AI Precision

InfraSmart Solutions, a team of researchers from the University of Colorado Denver, has leveraged the power of artificial intelligence to automate the detection process in sewer pipelines. Their groundbreaking technology transforms raw video footage into actionable insights with unparalleled accuracy and speed, enabling municipalities to identify and address sewer leaks more efficiently than ever before. By harnessing the latest advancements in computer vision and machine learning, InfraSmart Solutions is revolutionizing the way cities monitor and maintain their critical infrastructure, ultimately saving time, resources, and preventing costly damage.

Navigating Indoor Spaces with Cognitive Ease

Pinpoint, a startup founded by researchers from the University of Colorado Denver, has developed a remarkable app that empowers individuals with cognitive disabilities to navigate indoor spaces with ease. Unlike traditional solutions that require expensive or bulky equipment, Pinpoint's innovative approach leverages cutting-edge technology to provide a seamless and accessible experience for users, allowing them to confidently explore and interact with their surroundings. This transformative solution not only enhances the quality of life for those with cognitive challenges but also promotes inclusivity and accessibility within the built environment.

Detecting Wildfires and Chemical Spills with Advanced Sensors

N5Sensors, a participant from the University of Maryland, has designed an advanced sensor system that can detect wildfires and chemical spills at an earlier stage, providing critical real-time data to firefighters and emergency teams. This technology, already deployed in Boulder and Jefferson counties, enables faster mobilization and response, potentially preventing small blazes from escalating into devastating wildfires. By leveraging the power of cloud connectivity and artificial intelligence, N5Sensors' solution is a game-changer in the realm of environmental hazard detection, keeping communities safer and more resilient.

Compact and Mobile Air Quality Monitoring

Ecosystem Informatics Inc., a company based in Ontario, Canada, offers a comprehensive air quality monitoring system that combines advanced hardware and software solutions. Designed for sectors where accuracy, precision, timeliness, and reliability are non-negotiable, their compact and mobile air quality monitors provide municipalities with the data they need to make informed decisions and take proactive measures to improve air quality and protect public health.

Optimizing Urban Investments with AI-Powered Analytics

State of Place, founded by Dr. Mariela Alfonzo, is a Boston-based startup that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to help developers and governments create more just, thriving communities. Their data-driven, evidence-based approach empowers decision-makers to identify optimal investments in the built environment, from green spaces and park benches to roadways and buildings. By leveraging cutting-edge predictive analytics, State of Place enables cities to make informed, cost-efficient, and inclusive decisions that improve the quality of life for all residents.

Combating Food Waste and Hunger through Technology

GO See the City, a tech startup based in Orlando, Florida, is dedicated to addressing the pressing issues of food waste and hunger in municipalities across the nation and beyond. Through their innovative platform and app, GO See the City connects eateries of all types, including restaurants, stadiums, festivals, and food trucks, with surplus food to customers at a discounted price or to local nonprofits. This solution not only reduces food waste but also provides affordable access to nutritious meals, making a tangible impact on the lives of those in need.

Automating Tree and Infrastructure Monitoring with AI

Taro AI, a San Francisco-based startup, is revolutionizing the way communities monitor and manage their urban trees and infrastructure. By leveraging existing imagery, machine learning, and computer vision, Taro AI empowers residents to map and monitor risks in the built environment, automating the detection of issues and enabling proactive maintenance. This innovative approach helps governments and communities maintain the health and safety of their urban landscapes more efficiently and effectively.

Enabling Participatory Budgeting through Civic Engagement

Civic Trust, a Boulder-based company, provides process design, technology, and strategic communications support to help cities execute successful participatory budgeting initiatives. By empowering citizens to have a direct say in how their tax dollars are spent, Civic Trust's solutions foster greater civic engagement and transparency, ultimately leading to more equitable and impactful investments in local communities.

Leveraging 5G for People and Object Tracking

Tiami Networks, a startup based in Elk Grove, California, has developed a unique technology that extracts radar sensing information from ambient 5G network signals to track people, vehicles, and objects. This innovative approach opens up a wide range of applications, from public safety and traffic management to asset tracking and smart city initiatives, enabling municipalities to harness the power of 5G for enhanced situational awareness and data-driven decision-making.

Addressing Workforce and Housing Challenges with Modular Design

Addazu, a Denver-based company, is tackling the pressing issues of workforce development and affordable housing through its groundbreaking panelized modular housing system. By leveraging its expertise in design, engineering, and sales, Addazu is poised to revolutionize the way cities approach the workforce and entry-level housing sectors, providing innovative and cost-effective solutions that address the evolving needs of communities.