SSt. Louis Inno is publishing profiles of its 2024 Startups to Watch this week. See the entire list of honorees below.
FORCYTE
Headquarters: St. Louis
CEO: No CEO, but founders are Mike Wilson, Mike Seper, Dylan Brophy and Christopher Crenshaw.
What it does: Forcyte is developing a portable power system designed to provide energy in harsh environments, including military settings and natural disasters. Forcyte launched out of the National Security Innovation Network Defense Innovation Accelerator program. Its power system generates renewable energy created using solar panels and has been built with an initial use charging batteries to operate drones in remote locations.
The latest: Since its launch in 2020, Forcyte has advanced development of its power system, working with the U.S. Department of Defense. It inked a cooperative research and development agreement with the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. It has also been awarded contracts from the U.S. Air Force and Special Operations Command. Forcyte in November received a $75,000 grant from St. Louis nonprofit Arch Grants.
Why you should watch it: While developed out of technology from the U.S. military, Forcyte believes it has applications beyond drones and the defense industry. Its technology could be used in other applications such as search and rescue missions and the mining industry. It also believes its system's wireless and portable design could bring electricity and energy into remote communities and regions where power is currently difficult to transmit.
What’s next: As it advances development of its power system, Forcyte in 2024 will put a focus on setting up manufacturing of its system as it seeks to commercialize its technology. It will also aim to enhance its power system by increasing its energy capacity and the ways in which it can be used.
More about Forcyte
Year founded: 2020
Founders: Mike Wilson, Mike Seper, Dylan Brophy and Christopher Crenshaw.
Employees: No employees other than founders
Capital raised: $650,000
Investors: Friends and family
