The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) announced the 26 semifinalists that have been selected for the 2021 Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC).

The AIC is designed to advance innovation and technology commercialization opportunities in Arizona by helping early-stage ventures scale.


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“Choosing this year’s 26 semifinalists from a competitive pool of more than 100 applicants for this round was no easy task,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO, Arizona Commerce Authority. “We are incredibly impressed every year with the caliber of companies applying for this competition. Congratulations to each of the semifinalists and good luck in the next round!”

The 2021 Arizona Innovation Challenge semifinalists include:

Ampcera Inc.

Advanced Materials

Tucson, AZ

Better Agency, Inc

IT – Software

Mesa, AZ

Biomotum, Inc

Bio & Life Sciences

Flagstaff, AZ

Bluetail, Inc.

IT – Software

Phoenix, AZ

BMSEED LLC

Bio & Life Sciences

Phoenix, AZ

CIRQ+

IT – Hardware

Scottsdale, AZ

Denture Care Hub

Bio & Life Sciences

Santa Rosa, CA

Desert Saber LLC

IT – Software

Oro Valley, AZ

Dorm Room Movers

IT – Software

Scottsdale, AZ

EnKoat LLC

CleanTech/Renewable Energy

Phoenix, AZ

Gelco Products

Bio & Life Sciences

Anthem, AZ

Hoolest Performance Technologies

Bio & Life Sciences

Tempe, AZ

My Little Mascara Club

IT – Software

Tempe, AZ

Navi Nurses

Bio & Life Sciences

Phoenix, AZ

Oryx Additive Inc

Advanced Manufacturing

Tempe, AZ

OXbyEL Technologies, Inc.

CleanTech/Renewable Energy

Phoenix, AZ

OZZI

IT – Software

Phoenix, AZ

Paramium Technologies

Advanced Manufacturing

Tucson, AZ

ReSuture

Bio & Life Sciences

Surprise, AZ

Rixon Technology

IT – Software

Chandler, AZ

SaiOx Inc

Bio & Life Sciences

Tucson, AZ

SchoolCues

IT – Software

Phoenix, AZ

TapRoot Interventions & Solutions

Bio & Life Sciences

Phoenix, AZ

Tectonicus Constructs

CleanTech/Renewable Energy

Bisbee, AZ

The Patient Company

Bio & Life Sciences

Scottsdale, AZ

VIVAHR

IT – Software

Phoenix, AZ

In total, 110 applications were received for the 2021 competition, representing the following sectors:

• IT/Software: 51 or 46.4% of applications

• Bio & Life Sciences: 31 or 28.2% of applications

• CleanTech/Renewable Energy: 8 or 7.3% of applications

• Advanced Materials: 7 or 6.4% of applications

• IT/Hardware: 7 or 6.4% of applications

• Advanced Manufacturing: 4 or 3.6% of applications

• Aerospace & Defense: 2 or 1.8% of applications

The AIC consists of three judging rounds, during which companies receive constructive feedback on their applications generated from the rigorous online evaluation and scoring process. Judges will now select 15 finalists that will pitch their startups in-person before a panel of investors. The judges will choose up to 10 companies as AIC awardees for 2021. After all judging rounds are complete, participants will have an opportunity to receive a consultation with the ACA to discuss their application and other potential resources available to help improve their business plans.

2021 AIC Schedule

October 20 – November 19, 2021: Semifinalist Judging Round

November 10, 2021: Finalists Announced

November 17, 2021: Final Pitches

December 1, 2021: Awardees Announced

Up to 10 companies are added to the Arizona Innovation Challenge portfolio following each round of the competition. Companies chosen to join the Arizona Innovation Challenge portfolio will participate in the ACA’s Venture Ready Accelerator, connecting companies with serial entrepreneurs, high-level executives, and subject matter experts. Participants will complete a series of panels and workshops within the subsequent 12 months of the award. The Accelerator helps startups refine their business plans, improve go-to-market execution strategies and increase investor readiness.