Four Companies Tapped for Innovate Durham Program

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Innovate Durham, a city/county program that allows entrepreneurs and startups to test ideas, products, or services with access to government staff and data, received 28 applications for this year’s program.

The four finalists selected include:

• SKLLD, which aims to expand employment opportunities for historically underemployed groups by partnering with coding and job bootcamps. They’re expected to work with the city’s Innovation Team and Durham County Economic Development to create multimedia resumes for justice-impacted residents.
• MyMatR, which developed a smart waste container that automatically sorts waste into trash or recycling. They’ll collaborate with the city’s Solid Waste Management Department to implement units and gather real-time data.
• Laughing Monitos, which provides playgroups focusing on speech and language developmental skills for children up to 4 years old. They’ll work with Durham County Economic Development to offer services to children awaiting formal evaluation.
• Digital Brilliance Hour, which offers information technology workshops and curriculum designed to uplift marginalized youth, particularly in black and brown communities. They’ll partner with the city’s Technology Solutions Department to expand outreach and formalize the student experience evaluation process.

“Durham County is excited to continue our ongoing partnership with diverse early-stage businesses,” said Sabria Futrell, the county’s economic development coordinator, in a news release. “This year, program participants have access to expanded technical assistance at no cost, such as business certifications, small business funding, and financial management. These resources, in addition to departmental project support, are sure to take these businesses to the next level.”

The 16-week program runs until the end of May and will conclude with a Demo Day event that’s open to the public.