St. Louis Inno is publishing profiles of its 2022 Startups to Watch this week. See the entire list of honorees below.
EEMERG ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
Headquarters: St. Louis
Founder: Whitney McClendon-Gregory
What it does: Eemerg Roadside Assistance has developed a roadside assistance marketplace app that connects customers with car issues directly to service providers. The app itself is free, but the cost for roadside services for hire start at $45.
The latest: Since its launch in 2018, Eemerg has attracted funding from several organizations, including Techstars Chicago, as part of its startup accelerator. It also received grants from St. Louis-based nonprofits Arch Grants and WEPOWER. That funding has helped Eemerg develop a nationwide footprint, with more than 5,000 roadside assistance providers offering their services on its platform. Additionally, the startup has several service vehicles and two trucks of its own to provide roadside assistance locally. In 2021, Eemerg moved into a new 100,000-square-foot headquarters that include a tow yard and offices.
Why you should watch it: Eemerg wants to disrupt traditional membership roadside assistance motor club models like AAA, believing it provides a model that is easier for consumers to use and expands their access to roadside services. Founder Whitney McClendon-Gregory said the company has focused on partnerships in rural areas, which she contends has not been adequately served by traditional roadside service providers. As it expands operations, Eemerg has experienced rapid growth, with its revenue growing about 10 to 15% on average per month.
What’s next: In 2022, Eemerg plans to double its network of roadside assistance providers to more than 10,000 nationwide. It plans to expand its business by also placing a greater focus on additional business line: providing its services to businesses as well as consumers.
More about Eemerg Roadside Assistance
Founded: 2018
Employees: 6
CEO: Whitney McClendon-Gregory
Capital raised: About $250,000
Investors: TechStars, Arch Grants, WEPOWER
