Diversity is a hallmark of Memphis’ population. And the city is known for its entrepreneurial nature. The inaugural class of Memphis Inno's Startups to Watch reflects that racial, gender, and business-focused diversity.
Since its fall 2021 launch, Memphis Inno — MBJ’s brand geared toward startups, technology, and innovation — has expanded its coverage of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. The section highlights startups and founders who are breaking technological ground in their respective industries, with new ventures and innovative product offerings. Represented among Memphis Inno’s Startups to Watch in 2022 are entities with concerns as varied as medical technology, music and digital content, transportation, finance, and retail.
Some are early stage companies figuring out how to get off the ground, and others already have significant sources of funding and are looking to scale up. All are uniquely Memphis ventures.
CopyAI
Not long ago, CopyAI would have seemed futuristic. But the company is proving itself in the present. Founded in November 2020, the startup uses artificial intelligence to help businesses write and adjust various forms of marketing copy, such as blog posts, social media posts, letters, and emails.
Based on information a user provides about their product or company, CopyAI can produce content such as blog post ideas, intros, headlines, and outlines, or copy for letters, emails, and social media posts. Depending on the mood you’re going for, you can also select a certain tone, such as relaxed, professional, bold, or adventurous.
Already, CopyAI has completed funding rounds of $2.9 million and $11 million; and with a 12-person team and about 5,000 customers, it’s generated $2.3 million in revenue. This is far from where cofounder and CEO Paul Yacoubian wants the company to be, though. Within five years, the hope is for it to go public, earn $100 million in annual revenue, and have about 1,000 employees.
