The newly launched
Digital D.C. Tech Fund (DDCTF) is making its first grants for D.C. area tech startups tonight at a special D.C. Tech Meetup. Eight tech companies in various stages of development will receive between $25,000 and $200,000 each, along with mentorship from
DC Innovates, an economic development group that managed the grant process.
The eight companies receiving grant money are:
- Aquicore, a startup that centralizes and analyzes energy management for large corporate organizations. More here.
- Azert, developer of Bluetooth, wi-fi and temperature-sensor embedded wall sockets for restaurants, apartments and corporate buildings.
- EventKloud, a B2B startup for corporate events.
- FlexSpot, a mobile app for sharing off-street parking.
- Riide, a local company that builds and sells electric bicycles.
- Landmark, a new mobile map app from software development company Silica Labs. More here.
- Vinolovers, a subscription-based site for wine that enables global boutique wineries to ship directly to wine buyers based on customers’ preferences.
- MyMuzik, a digital device for musicians designed to replace paper sheet music.
The companies receiving the grant monies must be located within or must move to the
Digital DC Tech Opportunity Corridor within the next six months. The corridor is designed to link new tech businesses with the existing D.C. tech hub in Chinatown on one side and a forthcoming innovation center at St. Elizabeths in Ward 8 on the other. It comprises three miles, spanning 7th Street and New York Avenue NW in Mt. Vernon Square to Kansas and Georgia Avenues NW in Petworth.
“We received more than 140 strong applications that reflected the creativity and diversity of D.C.’s burgeoning tech community,” said Rey Ramsey, chairman of the DC Innovates Investment Advisory Board, which reviewed the applications and selected the finalists, in a statement. “It was a tough decision, but in the end, we selected a great set of companies that are poised for strong growth in the coming years.”
“Each of these grantees represents a bright future for technology, innovation and economic growth in the District of Columbia,” D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray said in a statement. “Through the Digital DC Tech Fund, my administration is able to provide resources and opportunities that will allow grant recipients to grow their companies and continue to make the District a place where innovative companies can start, develop and thrive.”
This article has been updated to reflect the product from Silica Labs that received funding. Elevation DC regrets the error.