23 innovative space startups you should know (2025)

23 innovative space startups you should know (2025)

23 innovative space startups you should know (2025)

February 05, 2025

Ground-breaking space startups redefining our limits of space exploration.

Feels like we are at the start of a huge space competition, as many countries are rushing to be the first to make the most out of space exploration. Morgan Stanley’s Space Team estimates that the roughly $350 billion global space industry could surge to over $1 trillion by 2040.

This market evaluation is very tempting for bold entrepreneurs, so it’s no wonder that the number of space startups is rising rapidly.

What are space startups?

Space startups are using the latest technology to provide solutions that are applicable to space exploration, research, and travel, as well as collecting data that helps us expand our knowledge of space.

Vestigo Aerospace

Founded in 2020, Vestigo Aerospace makes “drag sails” to help clean up space junk in Earth’s orbit. All the broken satellite parts and unused rocket bodies circling the planet pose growing dangers. Vestigo’s dragsails provide a solution. Their lightweight sails attach to satellites and rocket upper stages that have reached the end of their mission. The drag sail opens up like a parachute increasing drag in space. This pulls space vehicles back into Earth’s atmosphere sooner to burn up, reducing orbital clutter.

CubeSats and small satellites are difficult to deorbit once deployed. But Vestigo’s compact drag sails are designed specifically to work with smaller payloads. By integrating their product, satellite makers can meet guidelines for deorbiting craft once obsolete.

Think Orbital

The ThinkPlatform consists of modular spherical structures designed for autonomous on-orbit assembly to create shielded habitats with abundant interior space. Once launched and self-assembled in microgravity, ThinkPlatforms generate expansive protected volume immune to debris, radiation, and thermal extremes. This enclosed platform environment enables diverse orbital activities including scientific research, asteroid mining operations, astronaut missions, space tourism, manufacturing, and beyond.

As versatile infrastructure supporting various human and industrial uses in space, ThinkPlatforms can host instruments needing stable conditions, house stationed crews, or accommodate tourists to experience weightless free flight. This innovative orbited architecture provides customizable infrastructure to shelter essential space activities within a durable protective sphere.

Firefly Aerospace

Founded in 2017, Firefly engineers lower-cost rockets and in-space vehicles to make ambitious space applications more affordable. Initial products include small satellite launchers and lunar lander systems capable of carrying payloads for governments, research institutions, and corporate enterprises.

By driving down barriers around deep space transit infrastructure, Firefly aims to catalyze rapid expansion of space industry activity. Their systems allow more cost-effective transit and experimentation in orbit, the Moon, and eventually Mars.

Skyroot Aerospace

Founded in 2018, Skyroot has designed modular, versatile launch vehicles powered by specially formulated solid and cryogenic propellant combinations. Their rockets aim to minimize upfront costs and timelines for satellite operators.

By providing flexible, affordable space access, Skyroot intends to help unlock India’s commercial space potential and enable space missions for private companies, research organizations, and startups.

Leaf Space

Founded in 2014, Leaf Space has deployed a global network of interconnected ground station antennas that provide scalable satellite ground services including telemetry, tracking, and control. Their infrastructure aims to simplify space missions.

By virtualizing essential ground systems as a service, Leaf Space helps satellite companies and governments streamline operations and reduce costs related to Earth-space communications. This unlocks new space mission possibilities.

DcubeD

Founded in 2014, DcubeD builds on aerospace lineage while pioneering components purpose-built for the commercial small spacecraft industry. Their solutions turn size constraints into opportunities for innovation.

Companies like Astro Digital, GeoOptics and UNSW Sydney incorporate DcubeD technology for missions ranging from earth observation to asteroid exploration. As smallsats expand application frontiers, DcubeD fulfills their most ambitious requirements.

The Exploration Company

Founded in 2017, TEX builds on NASA heritage while accelerating commercial space with airline-like operations. Their goal is daily flights providing infrastructure to support growth of the LEO economy. Initial services will support satellite logistics.

Backed by Lockheed Martin Ventures and other aerospace investors, TEX is realizing the potential for reusable, propellant-agnostic spacecraft. As space commercialization accelerates, their modular design enables expanding applications on-orbit.

SKYRORA

Founded in 2017, SKYRORA merges 60 years of Scottish rocket expertise with the commercial demands of the new small spacecraft era. Multiple test launches validate their streamlined, environmentally conscious engineering approach.

SKYRORA already has agreements for launches with space leaders including Lockheed Martin and the European Space Agency. As smallsats transform space applications, SKYRORA provides launch capabilities tailored for their rapid growth.

PIXXEL

Founded in 2019, Pixxel realized smallsat hyperspectral technology could unlock life-saving, economy-driving insights hidden at sub-visual wavelengths. Their data empowers better decisions by governments, businesses, and researchers.

With launches underway and funding from top venture firms secured, Pixxel is scaling a constellation that will open our eyes to the full picture. Their spectral data promises new transparency into human and planetary health.

ClearSpace

Founded in 2018 as a spin-out of EPFL, ClearSpace brings technical expertise from missions like Rosetta to tackle the pressing issue of space debris. With collisions and failures accelerating, strategic removal is key to prevent chain reactions.

Backed by the ESA, ClearSpace is on track to execute the first orbital cleanup mission in 2025 to safely remove a discarded rocket part. As orbits grow more congested, their leadership in active debris removal will be critical.

Privateer

Founded in 2020, Privateer aims to solve the dual threats of space debris and asset aging requiring new in-space logistics infrastructure. Their technologies turn sustainability into a practical advantage.

Backed by leading space industry investors, Privateer is building commercially viable vehicles that drive the space economy closer to circular cycles of use, reuse and renewal. As space commercialization accelerates, their services will be essential.

Space Forge

Founded in 2020, Space Forge aims to expand space manufacturing by developing reusable vehicles for microgravity orbital production. Their spacecraft return materials to Earth after in-space fabrication.

By repeatedly transporting raw materials to orbit and then finished products back, Space Forge seeks to make space production commercially viable for pharmaceuticals, alloys, crystals and more. Their vehicle reusability promises lower costs.

AstroForge

Founded in 2021, AstroForge develops autonomous spacecraft for mining asteroids. Their goal is to harvest raw materials like iron, nickel, and water in space for in-orbit use and transport back to Earth.

By extracting and leveraging extraterrestrial resources, AstroForge seeks to provide materials needed to build, support, and fuel future space infrastructure and transportation systems sustainably.

Gilmour Space

Founded in 2015, Gilmour Space develops small satellite buses, launch vehicles, and propulsion technologies to make space more accessible. Their affordable modular buses aim to simplify in-orbit testing and deployment.

By providing integrated smallsat development and competitive launch pricing, Gilmour Space seeks to significantly lower barriers for startups and researchers needing flexible space access.

Exo-Space

Founded in 2018, Exo-Space develops smart sensing and navigation solutions for satellites and spacecraft. Their technology enables autonomous, resilient orbital operations without relying on ground.

By enabling greater spacecraft autonomy through AI, Exo-Space seeks to improve the robustness and capabilities of satellites and constellations as their complexity grows.

Phantom Space

Founded in 2018, Phantom Space designs on-orbit and reentry vehicles for economical satellite transportation and logistics. Their Daytona spacecraft aims to shuttle payloads between orbits then return for reuse.

By providing responsive space taxis and logistics services, Phantom Space seeks to make satellite mobility and recovery dramatically more cost-effective and sustainable long-term.

Reaction Engines

Founded in 1989, Reaction Engines is developing the SABRE, an advanced reusable rocket engine that breathes air in atmosphere and switches to rockets in space. Combined with the Skylon spaceplane design, this aims to provide low-cost space access.

By innovating breakthrough air-breathing rocket propulsion, Reaction Engines seeks to revolutionize affordable, sustainable space transportation infrastructures.

Varda

Founded in 2021, Varda is developing next-generation space infrastructure to enable off-planet manufacturing. Their orbital factory will produce advanced optical fiber and other materials leveraging zero gravity conditions.

Key innovations include a proprietary modular spacecraft design and robotic manufacturing systems optimized for microgravity. This unlocks new levels of precision and quality unattainable on Earth.

Operational Solutions

Founded in 2006, Operational Solutions offers specialized consulting services leveraging expertise from elite former military and government professionals. Clients gain insider perspective to inform decision making.

Key offerings include strategic advisory, capability development, concept testing, training, and operational readiness for complex programs. This high-caliber expertise provides an invaluable edge to both government and commercial players.

ICEYE

Founded in 2014, ICEYE pioneered microsatellite radar imaging from space for real-time earth observation. Their constellation provides invaluable visibility day or night, through clouds, and independent of weather conditions.

Key capabilities enabled by ICEYE’s data include disaster response, maritime domain awareness, infrastructure monitoring, and detecting changes for defense applications. Their frequent coverage drives strategic decision making.

Vyoma

Founded in 2019, Vyoma develops software and data analytics platforms for tracking objects in space to avoid collisions. Their technology monitors orbital congestion and space debris threats for satellite operators and space agencies.

Key capabilities include real-time conjunction warnings, risk assessment reports, and visualization tools for simulating orbital events. This enables proactive monitoring and maneuvering to reduce costly collisions.

Skyports

Founded in 2018, Skyports designs and builds takeoff/landing infrastructure for passenger drones and cargo delivery drones in cities. They also provide flight services including remotely piloted drone deliveries.

Key offerings include scalable skyport and droneport structures, cargo drone logistics, and software for managing air traffic and deliveries. This provides the full suite of infrastructure to integrate advanced aerial mobility into cities.

ZeroAvia

Founded in 2017, ZeroAvia develops hydrogen-electric power systems for aircraft to enable true zero-emissions flight. Their powertrains will first target smaller regional airplanes before advancing to narrow-body and larger aircraft over time.

Key innovations include high-power fuel cell stacks, cryogenic hydrogen storage and refueling, and battery packs to supplement power. This proprietary system aims to match current jet fuel flight capabilities.

Conclusion

Space startups are going to be the next hot thing, as many countries are pouring money in the industry in hope of big breakthroughs. With the market set to grow rapidly, space startups are rushing in to capitalize on their solutions that are expanding our understanding and usage of space.

Discover more creative startups that might interest you:

 

  • Mind-blowing retail solutions by the world’s most ambitious retail startups.

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22 thriving cloud computing startups (2025)

22 thriving cloud computing startups (2025)

22 thriving cloud computing startups (2025)

February 05, 2025

Top cloud computing startups that are enabling businesses to scale with flexibility

“It went up to the Cloud. You can’t get it down from the Cloud? Nobody understands the Cloud, it’s a mystery” – While this quote might have been true in 2016 when the comedy movie with Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel premiered in 2016 , this is not the case anymore. In fact, companies now completely understand the benefits of the cloud and more than 90% of the world uses cloud applications.

Thats why, there is a  growing need for cloud computing startups that are working on new and improved cloud platforms, management, services, and automation.

What are cloud computing startups?

Cloud computing service startups provide innovative solutions related to cloud infrastructure, including management, usage, and automation to help companies access data from remote servers and ensure optimum convenience.

Tray.io

Founded in 2012, Tray.io aims to empower employees across departments to eliminate tedious tasks. Sales teams can automatically sync new leads into the CRM. Finance staff can have invoices paid the minute they’re approved. Tray transforms fragmented systems into cohesive solutions.

Whether it’s synchronizing multiple cloud tools or automating intricate approval chains, Tray’s visual editor lets you build bots with a simple drag-and-drop interface. You don’t need IT or developer resources. Their automation technology handles secure connections and process logic behind the scenes.

GroundCloud

GroundCloud offers a cloud-based logistics platform modernizing how enterprise fleets track, optimize, and learn across global transportation operations. Their software-as-a-service model provides an end-to-end solution consolidating route planning, fleet monitoring, driver communication, training tools, and compliance reporting. Companies leveraging GroundCloud gain real-time supply chain visibility while standardizing best practices in safety and scheduling across the organization.

With seamless integrations unifying data, documents, vehicle telemetry, and personnel workflows, enterprises can react quicker, strengthen compliance, and maximize logistics velocity powered by prescriptive analytics tailored to their assets and routes. GroundCloud aims to simplify modern fleet orchestration via an easy-to-use centralized command center in the cloud.

Aviatrix Systems

Founded in 2017, Aviatrix builds cloud-native networking, security, and operational tools to reduce complexity for enterprises utilizing AWS, Azure, Google Cloud and others. Their platform drives automation while enabling consistent policies, troubleshooting, and governance across cloud providers.

By centralizing network intelligence and abstracting away cloud networking intricacies, Aviatrix aims to accelerate multi-cloud adoption for large organizations. The software helps IT teams operationalize cloud networking faster with automation tailored per environment. Early customers include Fortune 500s and Global 2000 companies.

JumpCloud

Founded in 2012, JumpCloud provides a centralized directory-as-a-service solution for single sign-on, adaptive authentication, device management, and role-based access control. This aims to simplify IT admin.

By streamlining user lifecycle management using cloud identity services, JumpCloud offers an alternative to legacy on-prem directory tools. Their platform secures organizations while enabling remote workforces.

CloudHesive

Founded in 2016, CloudHesive offers a full lifecycle of cloud expertise from readiness assessments to 24/7 monitoring and support once in production. Their experts guide clients through cloud complexities.

By serving as an extension of client teams, CloudHesive aims to enable organizations to realize cloud benefits like improved resilience, agility, and TCO without added IT overhead.

CleanCloud

Founded in 2019, CleanCloud continuously assesses cloud resources to identify savings, ensure security, manage permissions, and enforce policies. Their platform delivers actionable recommendations tailored for each cloud account.

By providing multi-cloud visibility and control, CleanCloud aims to help CIOs maximize value and minimize risk as cloud environments scale. Their software delivers insights to optimize spending and security.

ZStack

First released in 2011, ZStack provides tools to automate configuring compute, storage, and networking resources into flexible unified resource pools. This aims to simplify data center management at scale.

ZStack’s software helps companies integrate existing virtualized infrastructure into programmable private clouds while interfacing with public cloud services. The platform provides full stack orchestration capabilities.

Checkly

Founded in 2018, Checkly enables developers and site reliability engineers to set up, run, and alerts on automated browser and API tests to proactively catch issues before customers experience them.

By making proactive end-to-end monitoring achievable in minutes, Checkly aims to shift troubleshooting left and enable teams to build reliable, resilient applications. Their cloud platform simplifies managing and scaling testing.

Okteto

Founded in 2018, Okteto resolved key pain points holding back Kubernetes development velocity like local setup complexity and context switching. Their platform enabled developers to work naturally in the cluster.

Leading enterprises rely on Okteto to eliminate dev workflow frictions related to Kubernetes. The platform has a 99.99% uptime SLA with replicas across multiple regions. As apps containerize, Okteto unlocks developer potential.

Effortless Office

Founded in 2019, Effortless Office understood the bespoke IT headaches plaguing resource-constrained small businesses. Their solution integrates must-have cloud apps with tailored support into one affordable subscription.

Simplified solutions from Effortless Office allow SMBs to deploy reliable IT infrastructure fast without large capital investments. Their expanding platform provides the digital workplace services essential for growth and resilience.

Skudu

Founded in 2020, Skudu empowers data-driven, environmentally conscious farming to nourish growing populations. Their platform democratizes precision agriculture by making insight from sensors cost-effectively accessible.

Backed by leading agtech investors, Skudu is underway providing climate-smart guidance to smallholder farmers in Latin America with global expansion plans. Their technology fosters prosperity for farmers and communities.

Coastal Cloud

Founded in 2009, Coastal Cloud understood the personalized guidance required to adopt CRM effectively given each organization’s unique legacy systems and needs. Their tailored services foster lasting value from investments.

With 12 years perfecting successful rollouts, Coastal Cloud leads major digital transformation engagements for enterprise customers worldwide. As companies modernize infrastructure, Coastal Cloud unlocks CRM’s full potential.

CodeScene

Founded in 2017, CodeScene was created to apply data science revealing how engineering teams work at a granular level. Their analytics platform transforms software development into a measurable discipline using objective data.

Global industry leaders like Spotify and Klarna use CodeScene to guide strategic planning around release pacing, team structures and technical initiatives. As software “eats the world,” CodeScene gives leaders food for thought.

CloudBolt

Founded in 2012, CloudBolt understood the challenges hybrid cloud posed for enterprises managing existing systems alongside multiplying cloud options. Their platform simplified cloud integration and unlocked agility.

Now enabling over $200 million in hybrid cloud spending under management annually, CloudBolt is the choice of leading enterprises like KPCB, Leidos, and Ciena seeking cloud optimization. As hybrid environments grow more distributed, CloudBolt unifies control.

Aviatrix

Founded in 2014, Aviatrix provides software to build, operate, and secure cloud network infrastructure across public cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

Their networking and transit capabilities deliver simplified architecture, multi-cloud visibility, automation, and compliance for enterprises adopting the cloud. This promises agile, optimized networking as a service.

Chronosphere

Founded in 2020, Chronosphere consolidates monitoring, logging, and tracing data across cloud environments into one insightful observability solution. Their tools aim to restore order from data chaos.

By optimizing cloud data flows, Chronosphere seeks to help engineers maximize resilience, optimize performance, and accelerate innovation. This promises sustainable analytics as cloud-native systems proliferate.

Impossible Cloud

Founded in 2021, Impossible Cloud develops blockchain-based cloud infrastructure for secure data storage and computing. Their decentralized architecture aggregates unused disk space across nodes.

By coordinating excess capacity, Impossible Cloud seeks to build a scalable, resilient cloud alternative to centralized providers. Users gain private, affordable storage that grows exponentially.

Coherence

Founded in 2015, Coherence provides tools to help game developers build connected multiplayer experiences across platforms. Their framework handles complex infrastructure like networking, matchmaking, lobbies, and chat.

By handling tricky backend components, Coherence enables studios to focus on creating incredible game mechanics, narratives, and artwork. This aims to simplify and accelerate multiplayer game creation.

ScaleHub

Founded in 2018, ScaleHub offers a managed data annotation platform combining AI and crowdsourcing. Their tools assist with data tasks like classification, transcription, content moderation, and more.

By coordinating human and machine efforts, ScaleHub aims to handle data workloads of any size, speed, or sensitivity. Their hybrid approach promises to optimize cost, quality and speed for data-centric initiatives as they scale.

Causeway

Founded in 1998, Causeway offers a suite of cloud-based collaboration and project management tools tailored for heavy civil and transportation contractors. Their platforms manage workflows, documents, quality, safety, materials, and equipment.

Key capabilities include customizable workflows, real-time information sharing with engineers and owners, daily field reporting, punch list management and project cost controls. This brings oversight and efficiency to projects.

Nordcloud

Founded in 2011, Nordcloud provides consulting and managed services to plan, migrate, optimize, and manage public cloud adoption. Their experts help clients modernize architectures, applications, and operations using providers like AWS, Azure, and GCP.

Key offerings include cloud readiness assessments, migration roadmaps, containerization, DevOps processes, cloud-native development, security, 24/7 managed services, and cost optimization. They provide deep hands-on guidance implementing transformations.

Devtech

Founded in 2012, Devtech partners with technology and service providers to accelerate their transition to cloud-based solutions. They provide engineering resources and expertise to modernize infrastructure, applications, and operational processes.

Key offerings include cloud migration and replatforming, cloud-native development, managed services, IoT enablement, and security consulting. This helps clients rapidly launch and scale cloud solutions while optimizing costs.

Conclusion

The road ahead demands agility, persistence, and strategic foresight. While challenges exist, the potential rewards for successful cloud computing startups remain substantial, making this sector one of the most promising areas for entrepreneurial ventures in the technology industry.

Discover more creative startups that might interest you:

 

  • The best DeFi startups working on alternatives for the standard financal services.

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22 VR Startups with innovative solutions (2025)

22 VR Startups with innovative solutions (2025)

22 VR Startups with innovative solutions (2025)

February 05, 2025

Innovative vr startups shaping virtual world with amazing innovations
From healthcare to gaming, VR startups are revolutionizing many industries by providing immersive and interactive experiences for their customers. The vast options for implementing VR technology in many industries are very tempting for aspiring entrepreneurs.

The rise of VR startups should not surprise as the VR global market is projected to grow by 13.72% from 2023 resulting in a market volume of US$52.05bn in 2032.

What are VR startups?

VR startups are using virtual reality technology to provide solutions for many industries – from construction to healthcare.

Insta360

Founded in 2015, Insta360 quickly proved the capabilities of consumer 360 technology. As VR hardware and platforms evolved, Insta360 focused on simplifying immersive filming so anyone could share experiences through 360 content. Their cameras and software integrate AI and cloud-based workflows to help users easily edit and share. Their flagship products are the Insta360 Titan and Insta360 Pro 2 cameras which record high-resolution 360-degree 3D video.

The Insta360 Titan uses groundbreaking 11K 3D capture to create incredibly sharp VR and metaverse content. It offers creators the ability to explore an expansive new creative medium. The more affordable Insta360 Pro 2 films impressive 8K 3D footage with its six onboard cameras and lenses. Both models shine thanks to Insta360’s patented FlowState stabilization that produces smooth, flowing shots even during motion.

Obsess

Obsess enables retailers to build branded virtual shopping environments using VR and 3D technology. Their SaaS tools allow merchants of all sizes, from luxury fashion houses to telecom giants, to visually engage consumers within interactive virtual storefronts. Clients like Coach and AT&T use Obsess to prototype photorealistic product models for customers to view in VR, while Anheuser-Busch builds custom virtual lounges for personalized tastings.

Beyond modeling goods in expansive 3D detail, Obsess empowers retailers to embed social games and activities making shopping more immersive. With versatile worldbuilding capacities for any retail niche or unique brand identity, Obsess provides the AR/VR commerce infrastructure for pioneering consumer-facing Metaverse store concepts at scale.

Oncomfort

Founded in 2020, Oncomfort created VR experiences to ease discomfort during wound care, injections, and procedures. The fully integrated VR system features relaxation programs for pain and stress reduction through immersion.

Oncomfort’s VR therapy directs patients’ attention away from physical sensations. Soothing audio, visuals and coaching help patients develop coping and mindfulness techniques. Providers see faster healing and improved wellbeing.

Niantic

Founded in 2010, Niantic creates enhanced reality experiences that integrate digital information with the physical world. Their mobile apps leverage AR, geolocation, and mapping technologies.

Flagship products include Pokémon GO and Ingress, which power immersive gameplay by transforming neighborhoods into virtual worlds. Niantic also provides an AR developer platform.

Nearpod

Founded in 2012, Nearpod modernizes classroom engagement through multimedia lessons, formative assessments, and data analytics. Teachers can gauge participation and comprehension in real-time.

Nearpod’s suite includes virtual reality field trips, PhET science simulations, formative insights, and easy LMS integration. The startup aims to make active learning simple, engaging, and impactful.

Labster

Founded in 2011, Labster offers realistic digital labs covering biology, chemistry, engineering, and other STEM subjects. Students perform experiments and apply science skills in risk-free simulated environments.

The immersive simulations enhance lab preparedness, conceptual understanding, and scientific inquiry abilities. Analytics provide insights into learning gaps. Labster aims to make science education more engaging, effective, and accessible.

Soul Machines

Founded in 2016, Soul Machines develops Digital DNA – a platform for creating lifelike virtual assistants with customizable looks, personalities and emotions. Avatars can perceive facial expressions and respond appropriately.

Soul Machines’ avatars aim to enhance customer experience, marketing, and training through natural face-to-face interaction powered by AI. Their technology brings a human touch to digital engagement.

Decentraland

Launched in 2020, Decentraland operates as a shared virtual world where users can explore 3D environments, purchase digital land and assets, and connect with others socially. The decentralized metaverse is owned by its users.

Using MANA, Decentraland’s cryptocurrency token, users can buy land parcels to build virtual worlds limited only by their imagination. The community-governed platform allows worlds and applications to be designed collaboratively.

Avataar.Me

Founded in 2018, Avataar.Me creates immersive brand experiences leveraging 3D, VR, and AR technology. Their solutions help companies enhance storytelling and customer engagement through virtual try-ons, digital events, and interactive apps.

Avataar.Me’s capabilities empower next-gen social and retail that blurs the line between digital and physical. For brands, their technology unlocks more lifelike, memorable connections with audiences.

CLO Virtual Fashion

Founded in 2009, CLO offers a digital garment creation platform enabling 3D design, prototyping, and visualization. Brands leverage CLO to streamline design, test styles virtually, and market products through digital twins.

CLO’s physics-based cloth simulation produces ultra-realistic textile movement and drape. This provides accurate digital sampling early in the product creation process.

Heru

Founded in 2017, Heru has developed AI and computer vision technology for assessing vision disorders and optimizing eye health. Their applications enable analyzing eye alignment, tracking, and focus to identify issues.

Heru then provides corrective lenses and therapeutic treatments tailored to an individual’s needs and lifestyle. The software optimizes vision performance and comprehension.

Cluster

Launched in 2020, Cluster provides tools to create branded virtual spaces for events, communities, and interactive experiences. Users can easily build 3D worlds and stream live content.

By making metaverse environments accessible, Cluster enables businesses, creators, and communities to engage audiences through immersive social experiences online.

As virtual interaction gains traction, expect platforms like Cluster to play an increasingly vital role in bringing people together through technologies like VR and livestream video.

Holoride

Founded in 2018, Holoride syncs VR content with physical car motions and routes to create immersive in-vehicle entertainment. Their tech dynamically adapts VR experiences to match real ride sensations.

By tapping into a car’s real-time motion, Holoride aims to provide passengers with engaging VR tours, games, and adventures that transform ordinary commutes into hyper-realistic thrill rides

GITAI

Founded in 2018, GITAI develops humanoid robots capable of replicating human motion and tasks in space. Their robots aim to automate hazardous workloads in orbital and planetary environments.

By providing a robotic workforce in space, GITAI hopes to enable continuous commercial activity in zero-gravity without risk to human life. Their technology could help build and maintain future space infrastructure.

Didimo

Founded in 2016, Didimo uses AI and computer vision to generate animated human likeness avatars from photos. Their autonomous avatar creation technology converts images into virtual characters in minutes.

Didimo allows consumers, gaming firms, and enterprises to utilize realistic digital twins for uses like virtual try-on, VR collaboration, and customized interactive content.

Anything World

Launched in 2021, Anything World allows users to build virtual worlds and customize intelligent NPCs using just voice commands. The conversational AI handles worldbuilding requests and character programming.

The platform enables anyone to create dynamic metaverse environments inhabited by interactive characters without coding. Players can then adventure through personalized worlds via voice with friends.

SLAMcore

Founded in 2016, SLAMcore aims to provide the spatial awareness and perception capabilities needed for the next generation of autonomous devices. Their software integrates sensor data from cameras, lidars, and inertial measurement units to track motion and build detailed 3D maps.

Major players like food delivery service Postmates and robotics company Robby Technologies have adopted SLAMcore to navigate effectively on sidewalks and inside buildings.

Amelia Virtual Care

Founded in 2017, Amelia aims to leverage VR technology to provide more personalized mental healthcare. Their goal is to improve outcomes by deeply immersing patients in simulations that feel real but can be carefully calibrated by clinicians.

Amelia’s VR therapy has shown promising results in clinical pilots for treating PTSD, social anxiety, panic disorder, and more.

Beem

Founded in 2020, Beem’s goal is to enable meaningful human connections and advice-sharing within the emerging metaverse. Their technology has the power to make extended reality feel less isolating and more human-centric.

Beem is being used by companies for training, marketing, and customer service applications, with real humans driving the avatar interactions. This allows businesses to incorporate metaverse elements while still providing human touchpoints.

Futures Factory

Launched in 2019, Futures Factory is designed for both sneaker collectors and casual fashion enthusiasts. The immersive digital experiences attached to the physical shoes create a deeper connection for owners. Fans can interact with their favorite sneakers in new virtual settings.

For sneaker companies, Futures Factory also provides an outlet to debut exclusive new launches. Limited edition shoes can be “dropped” online, integrated with digital experiences that generate buzz. This direct-to-consumer channel offers expanded sales capabilities.

Moonhub

Founded in 2019, Moonhub is bringing cutting-edge VR technology to transform corporate learning. Active experiential training in VR has been shown to drive better skill retention compared to passive methods. By engaging multiple senses, VR can elevate workforce training and build empathy.

Moonhub is being used by companies to educate employees on topics like leadership, public speaking, sales, harassment prevention, and more.

Pimax

Founded in 2014, Pimax aims to push the limits of consumer virtual reality experiences through cutting-edge display and optics technology. Their headsets provide significantly sharper visuals and wide fields of view.

Key Pimax models like the 8KX offer high resolution paired with hardware innovations like wide200° lenses and mechanical IPD adjustment. This provides an extra-immersive and comfortable VR experience.

Conclusion

Every industry is feeling the impact of virtual reality as VR startups are bringing to market innovative and creative solutions that can be implemented to change the way we shop, entertain ourselves, and conduct business.

Discover more creative startups that might interest you:

  • Blooming drone startups that are revolutionizing almost every industry,
  • Mind-blowing retail solutions by the world’s most ambitious retail startups.

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Top 28 blockchain startups revolutionizing the industry in 2025

Top 28 blockchain startups revolutionizing the industry in 2025

Top 28 blockchain startups revolutionizing the industry in 2025

February 05, 2025

Must-know blockchain startups revolutionizing the industry
The global blockchain technology market size was valued at $11.14 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from to $469.49 billion by 2030. Early adopters of blockchain technology are seeing increased profit and productivity which makes the field very popular for emerging blockchain startups.

What are blockchain startups?

Blockchain startups are using blockchain technology to create new products and services that are based on blockchain. From only 66 blockchain startups in 2012, that number has skyrocketed to more than 1000 blockchain startups worldwide after 2020.

Conduit Financial

Founded in 2021, Conduit Financial helps other fintech companies start offering cryptocurrency products and services more easily. Rather than fintechs and neobanks having to build complex blockchain infrastructure themselves, Conduit provides the ready-made backend tools for crypto banking.

The Conduit platform enables clients to launch white-label exchanges, payment processing, wallet custody services, trading apps, debit cards, lending programs and more under their own brand. Everything at Conduit is designed for embedding so partners can get to market faster.

Ava Labs

Ava Labs created the Avalanche blockchain, delivering an open-source platform for custom applications needing scalability, speed and low costs. For developers, Avalanche allows creating versatile public or private blockchains tuned to specific use cases in finance, supply chains, credentialing and more. By handling immense transaction volumes with sub-second finality, Avalanche unlocks innovations not feasible on congested alternatives.

For individuals, Ava Labs offers crypto and NFT management tools for accessing Avalanche’s thriving DeFi and token ecosystem. Between empowering enterprises via rapidly configurable blockchains and enabling consumers via its crypto wallet and block explorer, Ava Labs sustains an accessible, high-powered network where all participants can customize or plug into Avalanche for their decentralized needs.

Coinrule

Founded in 2018, Coinrule lets crypto traders set up trading bots via easy drag-and-drop rules. Their bots can execute trades 24/7 based on market conditions. Traders can backtest strategies before deploying them.

The platform monitors price changes and other technical signals to trigger buys, sells etc automatically. This takes emotions out of trading so users can mechanize proven methods.

Coinbase

Founded in 2012, Coinbase has played a major role in cryptocurrency adoption by providing a simple onboarding point for beginner investors. They focus on compliance and licensed money transmitter status to ensure transactions meet regulatory standards.

With over 89 million verified users globally, Coinbase is one of the biggest mainstream crypto exchanges. Their platform provides the tools and educational resources for both individuals and businesses to participate in the emerging crypto economy.

Chainalysis

Founded in 2014, Chainalysis offers blockchain analysis software and data services to detect and investigate illicit activity involving cryptocurrencies. Their tools track transactions, map wallets, and identify high-risk exchanges.

Chainalysis aims to build trust in blockchains by providing compliance, government, and financial institutions with transparency into suspicious on-chain activity. Their crypto forensics support safer adoption.

Coinme

Founded in 2014, Coinme operates thousands of cryptocurrency kiosks and ATMs to enable convenient digital currency purchases using cash, credit, debit or gift cards. They provide a familiar way to buy into crypto.

By meeting users where they already are, at places like grocery stores, Coinme removes traditional barriers to crypto investing like linking bank accounts. Their network brings simple Bitcoin access to everyday shoppers.

Republic

Founded in 2016, Republic operates an online private investment platform that utilizes blockchain and smart contracts to streamline the investment process. Investors can browse and fund a range of early-stage investment opportunities.

Republic aims to democratize private capital and provide investment access to non-accredited individuals. Their blockchain-based approach minimizes middlemen through asset tokenization and automation.

SALT

Founded in 2016, SALT pioneered the crypto-backed lending model using blockchain assets like Bitcoin as collateral for fiat currency loans. Borrowers use funds without liquidating holdings.

SALT’s lending platform and ecosystem provides access to credit products using cryptocurrency. This unlocks capital tied up in crypto investments. Members can get competitive loan rates based on the LTV (loan to value) ratios of pledged collateral.

BlockFi

Founded in 2017, BlockFi offers buying, earning interest, trading, borrowing, and lending for major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins. Their suite provides a one-stop shop for managing blockchain assets.

BlockFi aims to bridge the worlds of traditional finance and crypto investing. Features like automated trading, interest-bearing accounts, and loans bring familiar services to digital asset management.

CoinDCX

Founded in 2018, CoinDCX operates India’s largest cryptocurrency exchange providing a unified trading platform with liquidity aggregated from global exchanges. They also offer crypto-based financial services.

Key offerings liquidity mining, yield farming, spot and derivatives trading, lending, and payment processing. CoinDCX provides a full suite of products tailored for the Indian crypto market.

Mysten Labs

Founded in 2021, Mysten Labs is building infrastructure to enhance security, safety, and usability of Web3 applications. Their solutions address risks in areas like private keys, smart contract bugs, and multi-chain complexity.

By creating institutional-grade developer tools, auditing services, and decentralized identity protocols, Mysten aims to remove technical roadblocks to blockchain mass adoption.

Yuga

Founded in 2021, Yuga creates branded NFT projects including the famous Bored Ape Yacht Club collection of avatar NFTs. They leverage blockchain, gaming, and community building.

Yuga’s model involves releasing limited NFT drops that double as memberships providing ongoing benefits like metaverse land. The inherent gamification and status makes projects virally popular.

Sorare

Founded in 2018, Sorare issues officially licensed digital player cards of pros across top leagues as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on the Ethereum blockchain. Users build fantasy teams and compete in tournaments to earn rewards.

Rare cards have trading value, adding a collector appeal to the fantasy sports model. Partnerships with major leagues and players associations provide official licensing.

Pastel

Launched in 2021, Pastel enables the issuance of non-fungible tokens to represent unique ownership of digital artworks. Artists mint tokens and collectors purchase them to trade securely on Pastel’s P2P marketplace.

Pastel uses the Bitcoin SV blockchain chosen for its massive scaling capabilities. This enables high volume transactions with fast settlement times and minimal fees required for mass NFT adoption.

Buenbit

Founded in 2016, Buenbit operates a digital asset exchange for Argentine pesos and Brazilian reals along with stablecoins like USDT. Users enjoy low fees and an easy onboarding process.

Buenbit’s platform provides tools and educational content tailored for Latin America’s nuances. This localized approach aims to accelerate responsible crypto adoption across the region.

Nayms

Founded in 2021, Nayms was created to address the risky and volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market. Investing in cryptocurrencies can be profitable but also highly unpredictable.

To help mitigate this risk, Nayms developed an insurance platform specifically for crypto assets.Nayms works by having investors provide capital to smart contracts that act as insurance policies for cryptocurrencies or DeFi protocols.

Solrise

Founded in 2021, Solrise provides the infrastructure and tools for fund managers to easily launch DeFi funds on the Solana blockchain. The platform handles all the technical aspects like deploying smart contracts, staking assets, trading, and more.

Fund managers can use Solrise to create diverse DeFi fund strategies including yield farming funds, NFT funds, liquidity funds, and more.

Bitsika

Founded in 2015, Bitsika set out to provide a fast, frictionless platform for sending money and accessing cryptocurrencies in Africa. At the time, options for digital payments and currency exchange were limited on the continent.

The Bitsika app enables instant transfers between users, similar to popular services like Venmo or PayPal.

Texture Capital

Founded in 2018, Texture Capital utilizes blockchain to help private companies raise growth capital in a more efficient, liquid, and compliant way. They tokenize traditional financial instruments.

Texture’s end-to-end platform handles tokenization, issuance, trading, and governance. Companies can access global investors without the costs of an IPO. Liquidity and trading are programmatically controlled.

Coinvise

Launched in 2021, Coinvise enables creators like streamers, influencers, and artists to be tipped in tokens, sell NFTs, offer paid channels, build engaged communities, and earn from their work.

Fans can support creators through subscriptions, donations, buying limited NFTs and more while engaging on the platform. For creators, Coinvise simplifies Web3 monetization.

World Coin

Started in 2021 with funding from leading venture capital firm a16z, World Coin aims to give away cryptocurrency to people across the planet. Users sign up via eye-scanning orb devices being distributed worldwide.

Once scanned, users receive free World Coin crypto through a share drop. World Coin utilizes the scan to verify unique human signups. The project’s goal is global, inclusive cryptocurrency access.

Interlay

Founded in 2018, Interlay enables DeFi services for Bitcoin holders by wrapping BTC tokens to be used across other blockchains like Polkadot. This unlocks earning yield on Bitcoin.

Key features include trustless bridge networks, smart contract oracles, and liquid staking derivatives. Interlay aims to expand Bitcoin’s utility and interoperability between chains.

GoSats

Founded in 2020, GoSats has partnered with major retailers, payment processors, and banks in India to provide satoshi (small unit) rewards for purchases. Users collect fractional Bitcoin over time.

GoSats aims to introduce Bitcoin to young consumers by rewarding it as cashback for everyday spending. Their lightweight app and gamified experience targets mainstream adoption.

Argo

Founded in 2022, Argo facilitates the sale of short video content like comedy sketches and animations directly to fans and collectors through NFTs minted on the blockchain.

Rights holders list limited edition “Argo Cuts” on Argo’s marketplace, with prices set by demand. Fans who buy a show’s NFT get special benefits like production credits.

Botin

Launched in 2021, Botin offers an easy-to-use investing interface, fractional share trading, and zero commissions. Their model aims to expand financial access and participation across the region.

By utilizing technology to simplify investing, Botin provides the tools for individuals to gain control over their financial futures early on. Features are tailored for first-time investors.

OnScale

Founded in 2021, OnScale aims to be the bridge between the traditional financial system and emerging Web3 for people like artists, athletes, and entertainers. Their integrated solution handles banking, wealth management, tax and accounting needs.

OnScale’s goal is empowering creators to utilize the benefits of both legacy and blockchain-based systems. Their platform enables seamlessly moving between fiat, crypto, NFTs, and more to optimize monetization.

Mintable

Founded in 2018, Mintable provides a platform for creators to digitize their work as non-fungible tokens with no coding required. They also operate a secondary market to sell to collectors.

Mintable offers gas-free minting, easy royalties, and anti-fraud protection. The goal is making NFT creation and trading safe, simple, and affordable for all.

Cyclic

Founded in 2020, Cyclic partners with brands to accelerate business growth online. Core capabilities include digital strategy development, creative campaign production, performance marketing, and optimizing presence across social/search channels.

By providing integrated strategic and executional expertise, Cyclic enables brands to drive real impact and ROI through digital. Their full-funnel view aims to scale brands combining data and creative.

Conclusion

We’ve highlighted 25 of the best blockchain startups to watch in 2023, analyzing what makes them succeed in this volatile market. With the continued growth of the blockchain market, we are sure that there will be more innovative blockchain startups in the upcoming years.

Discover more creative startups that might interest you:

  • Food startups that are developing amazing food making and delivery solutions.
  • The best cyber security that are working on keeping the Internet a safe space.

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Choosing your e-commerce business model (2025)

Choosing your e-commerce business model (2025)

Choosing your e-commerce business model (2025)

February 04, 2025

Choosing your e-commerce business model

E-commerce stands as one of the most successful business models ever created. With a worldwide market size expected to reach US$6,478.00bn by 2029, we can confirm with certainty that online shopping has become the primary choice for consumers since it offers unlimited product choices that can be purchased from anywhere at any time. 

The e-commerce business model thrives through its ability to minimize overhead costs while maximizing market reach which means companies can operate without physical shops and yet serve customers globally. This approach to selling creates opportunities for businesses of any size to compete effectively, whether they’re small local businesses or large corporations.

How e-commerce works

The e-commerce model runs on a simple principle,  selling products through online stores instead of physical shops. The basic process starts when customers visit the online store, pick their products, and check out using digital payment methods like credit cards or digital wallets. 

Behind the scenes, the business manages inventory, processes orders, and handles shipping to get products to customers’ doors. For e-commerce startups, this often means building efficient systems to scale operations quickly while maintaining customer satisfaction. Most e-commerce businesses connect with various shipping carriers and payment processors to make transactions smooth and create the best payment experience.

Core principles of an e-commerce business model

Growing a strong e-commerce business needs several key ingredients mixed in the right way to succeed. Each store needs to find the right products that ship well and bring good profits, then manage their stock levels carefully to avoid running out while keeping storage costs down. A clean, fast website with clear photos helps customers find what they want and buy it without hassle. 

Smart shipping options keep delivery costs fair for both the business and customers, while secure payment methods build trust during checkout. Getting these basics right helps online stores grow steadily and keep customers coming back for more.

Building the right e-commerce business

Starting and growing an online store demands careful attention to what your target customers actually want and need.

  • Target market: Know exactly who you’re selling to and what problems your products solve for them, not just trying to sell to everyone
  • Product quality: Sell items that match customer expectations and result in fewer returns and more positive reviews
  • Mobile experience: Make sure your store works perfectly on phones since most people shop on mobile devices
  • Customer service: Respond quickly to questions and problems because good support turns unhappy customers into loyal ones.

Focus on these basics first, and you’ll build a store that customers trust and recommend to others.

E-commerce vs. Traditional retail

Understanding the differences between physical stores and online retail helps business owners pick the right path or even combine both approaches for better results.

  • Location and hours: A physical store sits in one spot and closes each night, but an online store sells to anyone, anywhere, at any time
  • Starting costs: Opening a physical shop means paying rent, buying furniture, and hiring staff right away at the same time online stores need less money, mainly for website setup and initial inventory
  • Customer shopping: In-store shoppers can touch products and take them home instantly although online buyers get detailed product info and home delivery, but can’t try items first
  • Growth potential: Physical stores need new locations to reach more customers. Online stores can grow without opening new shops, just better marketing and inventory
  • Daily management: Regular shops need staff on-site to help customers and handle sales while online stores run mostly through software, focusing on shipping and customer service

Both models work well, they just solve shopping problems differently. Physical stores offer immediate satisfaction, while online shops provide convenience and wider reach.

Conclusion

With so many e-commerce business ideas available for you to start, the e-commerce business model offers lower startup costs and the ability to sell anywhere, allowing small sellers to compete in bigger markets and reach customers they never could before. This approach to retail shows that success often comes down to the basics, connecting buyers with what they want through the easiest road possible.

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