Astraeus Ocean Systems, an ocean data startup aiming to use autonomous boats to collect environmental information, won the Bellingham Angel Investors’ Startup Pitch Competition. The competition, offering a total of $10,000 in prize money, was the first of its kind in Northwest Washington state. The event aimed to showcase local entrepreneurs and boost the region’s startup ecosystem, which is often overshadowed by the activity in Seattle and Vancouver. A dozen entrepreneurs pitched their business concepts to judges and an audience of around 50 people at Whatcom Community College, with Astraeus taking first place and tying for the “audience favorite” award.
Astraeus plans to deploy a fleet of solar-powered autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) to collect and share sensor data in oceans globally, providing ocean intelligence on demand at a lower cost than current methods. CEO Alex Parker stated that the company has built three ASVs in-house and will conduct trials in Puget Sound before starting its first paid pilots in early 2025. The $6,000 first prize will be used to purchase instruments to outfit one of their vessels for searches for derelict fishing gear in Puget Sound. Other finalists in the competition included startups focusing on mental health services, motion tracking for VTubers, automation platforms for businesses, and project management software.
The competition showcased a mix of tech-related startups from Whatcom County, with a focus on AI and innovative solutions for various industries. Winners included Tiny Steps, Big Leaps, a child care and learning center for young children; and Geo Garden Club, an app for serious gardeners to track plant growth. The event aimed to raise awareness and activity in the local entrepreneurial community, providing finalists with coaching, workshop sessions, and networking opportunities. Bellingham Angel Investors, the organizing group, supports investments ranging from $2 million to $5 million and accepts pitch applications for angel investments on a monthly basis.
The startup landscape in Northwest Washington state includes a variety of industries such as agriculture, maritime, energy, and clean technology. The region’s resources have contributed to the growth of companies with innovative applications in these sectors. The competition brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and community members to support and promote the startup ecosystem in the region. Innovation Bellingham, an initiative led by Rhys Faler, has been actively hosting networking events and promoting collaboration among innovators. The success of the pitch competition highlighted the potential for future events and investments in the region.
Overall, the Bellingham Angel Investors’ Startup Pitch Competition aimed to stimulate the local entrepreneurial community and provide a platform for startups to showcase their ideas. The event encouraged engagement with the startup ecosystem at an early stage and facilitated connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. With a focus on supporting innovative business ideas and potential angel investments, the competition aimed to help startups succeed in the region. As the startup landscape continues to evolve in Northwest Washington state, events like this are crucial for fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth.
