Arizona Commerce Authority recently announced 15 finalists have been selected for the 2022 Arizona Innovation Challenge (AIC). The finalists will advance to the final round of the competition, after which judges will select up to 10 companies as AIC awardees for 2022.
The AIC is designed to advance innovation and technology commercialization opportunities in Arizona by helping early-stage ventures scale. 2021 AIC Finalists who were chosen as 2021 AIC Awardees include Bluetail, an online aircraft document, records and data platform, Navi Nurses, a concierge nurse provider, and VIVAHR, which provides hiring software for small businesses.
“This year’s Arizona Innovation Challenge finalists represent some of the most exciting and cutting-edge companies in Arizona,” said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Congratulations to all the outstanding finalists for advancing to the next round of the competition. Best of luck and we look forward to seeing which companies will be selected as AIC awardees for 2022.”
The 2022 Arizona Innovation Challenge finalists include:
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. The 15 finalists will pitch their startups in-person before a panel of investors on November 17.
The judges will choose up to 10 companies as AIC awardees for 2022 in early December. 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.
Up to 10 companies are added to the Arizona Innovation Challenge portfolio following each cycle 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.