Innovation Works

Pennsylvania is investing in a bold vision for economic growth with a $600M commitment to revitalize Downtown Pittsburgh. This transformative investment, led by the Shapiro Administration, exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships to build thriving business districts across our state. This public-private partnership will: ✅ Create 3,500 construction jobs by 2028 ✅ Enhance downtown amenities ✅ Expand housing options ✅ Revitalize public spaces It’s an investment in the future of Pittsburgh and a statement on how we approach economic development in Pennsylvania. When you choose PA, you’re choosing a state that supports its business districts with real dollars and real vision. Read more about the plan and see why Pennsylvania is the place for business: https://lnkd.in/gqG9C-Mz

I’m excited to be attending the Mid-Atlantic Capital Conference on Oct 29-30! I Will you be there? Let’s meet up and make some deals happen! #MACC2024

With the year drawing to a close, the pressure’s on for many leaders to inspire their teams toward a powerful year-end finish. But what’s the right way to communicate when morale dips and deadlines loom? This article from our #IWPortfolio company TalkMeUp breaks down effective communication strategies to help leaders reignite motivation, build confidence, and avoid common pitfalls. From positive messaging and celebrating progress to ensuring clarity and direction, these tips empower leaders to set their teams up for a winning fourth-quarter finish. ✅ What to Say: Express Confidence: “I know you’re capable of delivering great results.” Celebrate Small Wins: “We’re already 80% there. This last push is all it takes!” ❌ What Not to Say: Avoid negative language that could demotivate: “We’re behind”...Instead: “We’ve got some ground to cover, but we can do it.” For more practical advice on communication that resonates, check out the full article on how to make this final stretch your team’s strongest yet. https://lnkd.in/emzr9NqF

Influencer marketing? Video? SEO? How do you keep up? Let Cafe IW: Marketing Trends on 11/13 guide you. Top marketing pros share insights that can change your business. Register today: https://buff.ly/3YkMKdN

President & CEO Ven Raju was recently interviewed by Pulse 2.0, sharing insights on Innovation Works' role as one of the most active early-stage investors in the country. With over 761 companies supported and $3.3 billion in follow-on funding raised, IW continues to play a crucial role in fostering innovation and job creation in Pennsylvania. In the interview, Ven delves into his career, IW’s impact on the startup ecosystem, and emerging trends shaping Pittsburgh’s tech economy. Read the full interview: https://lnkd.in/gSsZU2Sp

Stay ahead of the curve in marketing! Join us at Cafe IW: Marketing Trends for expert insights on influencer marketing, video, and SEO. Speakers include Cooper Munroe, Jibril Washington, and Jeff Gapinski, with Drake Som leading the conversation. The Motherhood Inc. Intrinsic Media Company HUEMOR® Sitewiz Don't miss out! Register now to join us on 11/13

Congratulations to #IWPortfolio company Edge AI for closing a $3M seed round to scale its innovative robots that inspect wastewater pipes! With only 10% of pipes inspected, Edge AI’s Pipe Dream robot offers a more affordable, efficient solution, streaming 4K video while navigating pipelines with a PlayStation 4 or Xbox controller. This funding, led by LMNT Ventures and Organic Growth Fund, will drive development, expand their team, and grow partnerships with municipalities. https://lnkd.in/e8aqs8_W

Collaborate with top HR professionals and industry experts at our workshop on international talent retention. Let’s work together to make Pittsburgh a global talent magnet. Register now https://buff.ly/3Uu8TnN.

🌟 What an incredible UpPrize: Social Innovation Challenge 2024 Final Showcase! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for yesterday’s event, and congratulations to all of our innovators for their inspiring presentations and impact-driven missions. We’re thrilled to announce our 2024 winners: 🏅 Grand Prize: Astria Biosciences – Advancing aneurysm diagnostics to improve access for all 🥈 Second Place: Pathway Accessibility Solutions, Inc. (pathVu) – Making pedestrian pathways accessible for everyone 🥉 Third Place: Bindr® – Fostering safer and more inclusive connections in dating Thank you to BNY and our valued partners for supporting our mission. Special gratitude to Michael Keslar, Eric Boughner, and the entire BNY team for their dedication to social impact and innovation in Pittsburgh. To all our semi-finalists—thank you for sharing your powerful visions and ideas. You are paving the way for a better future, and we’re excited to see what’s next for each of you! 💡 Together, we’re proving that Pittsburgh is a beacon of social innovation. Let’s continue to build a brighter, more inclusive world! #UpPrize2024 📸 Photo credit: Elisa Cevallos 💻 Website: https://lnkd.in/eavS3UkU

Pittsburgh’s venture capital scene is showing resilience with $80 million raised across 16 deals in Q3, up 16% from Q2. Driving this growth are sectors like healthcare and robotics, supported by notable deals like Noveome Biotherapeutics, Inc.'s $36.2 million raise. Despite the lowest deal count in seven years, strategic investments showcase the region’s unique strengths. As Pittsburgh’s tech and startup ecosystem grows, leaders like Sean Sebastian of Birchmere Ventures and Rezzan A. Kose, PhD from 412 Venture Fund LP see a bright future, pointing to the city’s innovation-friendly ecosystem, lower operational costs, and strong local institutions. While national VC trends face challenges, Pittsburgh’s targeted investments demonstrate the city's long-term potential. Read more https://lnkd.in/efhKHRX3