Author: Mikey Tom

Founded in 2014, TheLorry has built a logistics platform that connects owners of lorries (similar to a cargo truck), van’s and trucks with customers in need of shipping. From consumers that are looking to clean house and get rid of unwanted goods to enterprises delivering large items like appliances, TheLorry is able to link them up with trucks to efficiently move what is needed.

Communities are vital to the health of individuals and companies, but they can be sprawling, disjointed, and difficult to grasp—especially online. Enter Common Room, which co-founder and Chief Architect Tom Kleinpeter describes as a community-intelligence platform that provides a single view into everything that’s important in your online community, across all the different places it might be happening.

Last year, over 600 startups applied from 185 different U.S. universities. Applications were reviewed by representatives from the AWS Startup Business Development team, who then selected 10 teams to compete in the last round. Each startup was paired with a subject matter expert from AWS to help them polish their pitches before their final presentations. Winners received up to $20,000 in cash, up to $100,000 in AWS credits, as well as intros to AWS partners like Techstars and Dorm Room Fund.

Menten AI created the world’s first protein designed on a quantum computer. The feat has huge implications for the world of drug discovery and design—and ultimately for all of us who may benefit from novel therapeutics to treat diseases.

Artificial intelligence may be the future, but 90% of AI models developed today don’t make it into production. DarwinAI has set out to solve that problem by enabling organizations to understand and optimize models, making it easier to build what matters.

PulpoAR looks to bring together the digital and physical worlds using augmented reality. The company has launched its platform with the ability to virtually try on makeup online, but plans to expand into other categories, like skincare, in the near future.

FutureFit AI’s platform is designed to help guide individuals through the process of planning their careers. It starts with first figuring out where they are, then gaining an understanding of where they want to go and helping them map a course between points A and B.

Paladin AI is a company that uses machine learning to reinvent the pilot training process. Historically, aviation certifications relied heavily on subjective instructor scoring. The team at Paladin AI is looking to leverage data and ML algorithms to both make process easier and more accurate.

In Latin America, small businesses and micro-entrepreneurs face significant economic barriers. To combat issues of limited technological knowledge, fears about the process of launching an online store, and uncertainty when it comes to choosing the right platform, Mexico-based Canasta Rosa (Spanish for Pink Basket) is guiding small businesses to success. Spearheaded by CEO Deborah Dana, the startup has a clear purpose: To empower micro and small entrepreneurs to build and scale their businesses.

Founded in 2017, AfroLandTV looks to be a “Netflix for African content,” giving African filmmakers a voice and help them share their culture.