15 finalists picked for ACA's Arizona Innovation Challenge

The Arizona Commerce Authority has selected 15 startups as finalists in its 2023 Arizona Innovation Challenge.

The companies, all but one of which are based in Arizona, are now in the last of three rounds of competition. They were picked from a pool of 30 semifinalists announced in October, and those were chosen from a total of 100 applicants earlier in the year.

The Arizona Innovation Challenge is intended to help early-stage companies grow through resources, mentorship and potential to be chosen for ACA’s Venture Ready Accelerator program. Up to 10 of the finalists will be named in early December for that program.

“The 2023 Arizona Innovation Challenge finalists represent some of the most exciting and next-generation startups in Arizona,” said Sandra Watson, ACA president and CEO, in a statement. “Congratulations to this year’s finalists for advancing to the final round of the competition. We wish you all the best of luck.”

Applicants came from sectors including IT/Software, biotech and life sciences, cleantech/renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and aerospace and defense.

The finalists were scheduled on Friday, Nov. 17 to pitch their startups in person in front of an investor panel

The Venture Ready Accelerator connects companies with serial entrepreneurs, top executives and experts. Over a 12 month period, the companies will go through panels and workshops to help them refine their business plans, improve their execution strategies and be better prepared for investors.

During the judging process, the companies have been receiving feedback on their applications, and once judging rounds are complete, participants will be able to consult with the ACA further about their application and other resources.

Here are the 2023 finalists: