The South Florida startup ecosystem continues to gain momentum as several key companies announce leadership changes, innovative partnerships, and community support initiatives.
Getlabs, a leading provider of at-home diagnostics based in Miami, has appointed Claire Hough as its new CEO. Hough, previously the company’s chief product and technology officer, brings over two decades of executive leadership experience. Her prior roles include significant positions at notable Silicon Valley companies such as Carbon Health and Udemy, where she played instrumental roles in scaling operations.
Under Hough’s leadership, Getlabs aims to deepen its partnerships across the healthcare sector and enhance the overall patient experience. Demetri Karagas, CEO of Thirty Madison and board member of Getlabs, emphasized that Hough is exceptionally qualified to lead the company into its next phase.
In Boca Raton, Blue Frontier is revolutionizing air conditioning efficiency under the leadership of CEO Daniel Betts. The company has partnered with CBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate broker, to pilot its innovative cooling technology in one of CBRE’s client buildings. This partnership reflects Blue Frontier’s ongoing collaboration with institutions like the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubator and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Blue Frontier’s unique HVAC system allows users to control humidity and temperature separately, delivering twice the efficiency of conventional air conditioning units. The initiative will be tested on a Delaware property, with performance metrics evaluated by NREL researchers.
Meanwhile, Hollywood-based Social Mobile is moving toward becoming publicly traded through a planned acquisition of California’s Sonim Technologies for up to $20 million. This acquisition will enhance Social Mobile’s offerings by incorporating Sonim’s rugged phones that are ideal for challenging environments like those faced by first responders.
Social Mobile manufactures custom Android devices for businesses and has been expanding its production footprint, moving more operations to Taiwan, Mexico, and the U.S. CEO Robert Morcos stated the acquisition would bring synergistic benefits that align with the company’s mission of innovation.
In another notable development, two South Florida startups found success at the Florida Venture Forum’s Early Stage Venture Conference held in Orlando. Zulu Pods of Coral Springs, a defense and aerospace firm focused on advanced component technology, secured the first runner-up position, earning a $20,000 prize. Founded by former Pratt & Whitney engineers, Zulu Pods developed the ZPod, which streamlines lubrication systems for various aircraft and UAVs.
FireCodes AI, representing Florida Atlantic University, also excelled by winning a $5,000 prize in the Collegiate Award contest with their AI-powered tool designed to help fire protection specialists navigate state fire codes more effectively.
Thoma Bravo, a Miami-based software investment firm, recently announced the successful completion of fundraising efforts that amassed over $34.4 billion for its buyout funds. This funding includes the Thoma Bravo Fund XVI and the newly launched dedicated Europe Fund, both of which exceeded their financial targets. Founder Orlando Bravo credited the firm’s strong investor relationships as pivotal to achieving this significant fundraising milestone.
Miami International Airport is making strides in accessibility by partnering with ReBokeh Vision Technologies to provide low-vision users with assistive technology. This partnership offers ReBokeh’s custom app, granting users enhanced visibility through the adjustment of visual overlays on their devices, thus making navigating the airport environment more manageable. Travelers can use this tool to read signs, identify restaurants, and more.
In the regulatory space, MoonPay has secured its BitLicense and Money Transmitter Licenses from the New York State Department of Financial Services. This achievement enables the crypto payments company to operate in all 50 states, marking a significant step as it joins the ranks of other major financial services providers holding this license.
UKG, based in Weston, has made headlines with its acquisition of Shiftboard, a leading employee scheduling platform. This acquisition will enhance UKG’s capabilities in managing workforce scheduling for industries such as oil and gas and manufacturing. The added functionality allows clients to maintain compliance with labor regulations while increasing employee engagement and satisfaction.
An analysis from LegalZoom reveals that Florida has the nation’s highest concentration of women-owned small businesses, with Miami ranking as the top city in the U.S. This finding highlights Miami’s status as a vibrant hub for female entrepreneurship, showcasing a robust environment for small business innovation. Nationwide, women-owned businesses are significant contributors to the economy, generating over $2 trillion in revenue and creating jobs for millions.
As the South Florida startup and small business landscape continues to evolve, there is no shortage of opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators. The local ecosystem is not only fostering significant technological advancements but is also committed to inclusivity and support for diverse communities.
In job market news, numerous companies are actively hiring various positions, including Avidxchange, Betr, Boats Group, and Royal Caribbean Group, signaling a growing demand for talent in our local economy.
Furthermore, several initiatives are opening doors for entrepreneurs, like the SPARC South Florida competition for a chance to win $1 million and the Seaworthy Collective’s ocean innovation program, highlighting the importance of community engagement.
Finally, as tales of innovation, growth, and opportunity continue to flourish in South Florida, it’s clear that the region is poised for a bright future.
image source from：https://refreshmiami.com/news/10-things-to-know-in-miamitech-news-from-getlabs-blue-frontier-social-mobile-zulu-pods-florida-venture-forum-thoma-bravo-mia-moonpay-more/
