Friday “Fund” Day: What Southeast Startups Made News The Week of January 20 – 24, 2025

Funding news was slow this week for Southeast startups, but plenty happened of news to still cover. Here is the latest:

Big Stories On Hypepotamus

Tampa’s mobile AdTech startup Nickelytics has a new CEO. Eduardo Iniguez, previously the CEO of carsharing company Getaround, is going to be leading the company from his home in Los Angeles. Why is he excited about the new position? Well, simply put…the powerful data it brings to the advertising world. More on Hypepotamus

Atlanta’s semiconductor startup Falcomm released its new product to market, a power amplifier called the FCM1401. What makes Falcomm unique? Well, there aren’t many semiconductor companies building in Midtown Atlanta and definitely not ones that are building more efficient power amplifiers for satellites. More details on Falcomm here

Of course, another week, another round of AI startups. Courisini recently launched under the leadership of restaurant veteran Cliff Bramble (who Atlanta’s might know as the co-founder of Rathbun’s Restaurants). The conversational AI platform turns restaurant industry experts into voice agents to answer questions at any time.

Then there is Immersive Exposure, a mixed reality startup that wants to teach creative skills – like photography – without you having to take in-person workshops. Get to know Immersive Exposure here

 

Other Stories Around The Southeast

Brickyard, the Chattanooga startup “insulator” and investor, says its portfolio company Rollfi has been acquired by Priority Commerce (NASDAQ: PRTH). Details here.
The Idea Village has announced the companies/founders that will be participating in its 2025 VILLAGEx business accelerator program. Startups include:

● CampusKnot: A SaaS platform enhancing active learning and engagement in classrooms through real-time AI-powered tools.
● Custom AI: Developing tailored software solutions to address niche industry challenges and seamlessly integrate with operations.
● Healthy Hip Hop: Leveraging culturally relevant programming and
technology to create safe and engaging learning environments for children.
● Hello Gravel: The 1-800-Flowers for bulk aggregates, revolutionizing the construction materials supply chain.

● Louie Louie: An award-winning hemp-based cannabis beverage, reimagining the way consumers enjoy cannabis.
● OCD Solutions: A comprehensive digital platform for powersports and marine dealerships, streamlining operations and enhancing customer engagement.
● P3 Technology: A platform connecting individuals with disabilities to research opportunities, fostering inclusivity and innovation.
● QMS2GO: An AI-powered quality management assistant helping manufacturers streamline processes and ensure compliance, with unique benefits for Department of Defense contractors.

Charlotte-based Craftwork, a full-service, software-based home painting company, raised $7 million in Series A funding, per Crunchbase. Axios Charlotte has the details.
Atlanta-based PadSplit, the coliving marketplace providing affordable housing solutions, announced the appointment of Cliff Johnson as its new President.
Georgia Azih is stepping down as CEO of FinQuery, the Atlanta-based accounting software company. Joe Schab, the company’s former President, will step in as CEO. Details here.