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MITdesignX 2022 Cohort in session Applications for 2023 open in the Fall
MITdesignX 2022 Cohort Meet our cohort Online courses at MITdesignX We offer a unique online course for venture creation and solution design
Join us Our Supporters
MITdesignX 2022 Cohort in session Applications for 2023 open in the Fall
Admission Timeline FAQ

MITdesignX seeks diverse, interdisciplinary teams working on challenging ideas with clear vision, passion and drive to design solutions and launch a real venture. Applications go through a rigorous selection process that reviews ideas based on human and social impact, feasibility, uniqueness, and scalability as well as team composition, diversity and skillset.

 

Apply HERE

Selection

Up to 10 teams are selected for each cohort. Applicants can include graduate students, researchers, staff and/or faculty members from the MIT School of Architecture and Planning as well as from all MIT schools, other universities and industry.

Requirements

One participant on a team is required to be an active student, faculty, researcher or staff member of MIT. Preference will be given to teams that include SA+P members.

Alumni

Alumni MITdesignX teams include participants from the Architecture and Planning departments, the Center for Real Estate, the program for Arts, Technology and Culture (ACT), and the Media Lab in addition to many participants from across MIT including computer science, engineering, management, biology, and the humanities.

Application

Applications for the 2023 cohort open on October 1. A selection committee will review all applications and advance up to 20 finalists for presentations and interviews before a final panel. Guidance is available for all teams during the application period. Applications are due November 1.

Accelerator Studio

The program begins with an all day Bootcamp during the MIT IAP period. The bootcamp program requires full team participation for the full two week session. The Accelerator Studio begins during the MIT Spring semester. The 16 week accelerator studio will follow the MITdesignX academic framework outlined in the about section.

Pitch-Out

Pitch-out is held after the completion of the Accelerator Studio. Pitch-out is a culmination of teams communicating their prototype, investor pitch deck and "masterplan” for their venture. Pitch-out is a key moment for teams to introduce their ventures to hundreds of investors, stakeholders, civic and industry partners.

Applications for the 2023 cohort open on October 1, 2022. A selection committee will review all applications and advance up to 20 finalists for presentations and interviews before a final panel in December. The MITdesignX Venture Accelerator starts with a Bootcamp in January during the MIT IAP period, followed by an accelerator class in the Spring semester. After the final pitch night in May, teams continue to work on the development and scaling of their ventures and have access to workspace, mentors and staff until the end of the year. All participants must attend IAP and Spring courses.

Yes. MIT is open for in-person learning and we are scheduled to hold all classes and workshops from our base in the School of Architecture and Planning. Participation in designX will require in-person attendance in accordance with MIT rules.
Our selection committee looks at the following criteria when evaluating applications: Is the venture solving a valid problem or addressing an apt opportunity? Is the proposed solution a good fit? Is the team capable of developing the necessary solution?* Is there a market need or societal need for the proposed venture? Will this venture make an impact on design, cities, and/or the human environment? Is there entrenched competition, regulations or lack of technology or accessibility that could make development of the venture impossible?**   * teams don’t need all technical members on board, but need to have a good connection or understanding of a proposed technology if applicable **we do like solving the impossible though, so work your way through this criteria if necessary.
This year, after a first-round selection we will invite up to 20 teams for a brief meeting to speak and help clarify information from the application itself. Meetings will take place from Nov. 9-16.  Ideally, all members of the team will attend, but exceptions will be made for scheduling purposes. Finalists will then be invited to pitch their ventures in person on the afternoon of Dec 3 before a selection committee and select guests including MITdesignX alumni, partners and mentors. The committee will make a final selection of up to 10 ventures.  Decisions will be announced by Dec 7.
MITdesignX was created in SA+P to accelerate ventures in design, cities and the human environment, and provide a dedicated entrepreneurial program primarily for members of the SA+P community.   As such, preference will be given to teams with at least one SA+P founding member.  However, we can accept teams from across MIT as long as the focus of the venture is in the realm specified above.
Yes, but you cannot attend a workshop based program at the same time as our bootcamp or Spring class (such as the I-Lab at Harvard).  Programs like Sandbox, 100K, or Creative Arts can we joined concurrent to designX.
Yes, ventures can join other programs such as DeltaV, Legatum, MIT100K, Sandbox, VMS, PKG and more. However, while in designX we require that you coordinate with us regarding mentors. Having multiple mentors in different programs can be unproductive.
Yes, many students interested in developing their thesis ideas into ventures apply to the program and take advantage of the vast entrepreneurial resources made available through MITdesignX to fast-track the development of their ideas, designs and technologies. You must discuss this with your thesis advisor.
At MITdesignX, IP is considered the property of the individuals and/or teams. MIT will not stake IP or patent claims to new ideas developed at MITdesignX. If your idea was created as part of prior research at MIT, or uses specific lab support of MIT, then MIT IP may apply. Teams must clear any MIT IP issues with the MIT TLO. Work by faculty or staff of MIT may also be subject to MIT rules pertaining to IP. The program offers resources to assist you in protecting and filing patents.
The grant is awarded to fund initial team expenses needed to develop the idea, including, but not limited to: data collection, database access, incorporation and legal costs, travel costs associated with meeting potential partners or customers, programming, marketing, or product development. MITdesignX reserves all rights to make decisions on acceptable use of funds. All expenses and procurement must be acceptable to MIT rules and guidelines.
No, funding can only be made to U.S. entities, or paid as reimbursements to MIT students, staff, affiliates and faculty.
No, grant funding from MITdesignX cannot be used for sponsored research funding at MIT.
No, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is not required to receive team grants. However, businesses receiving funds must be legally registered in the United States. Participants on student visas must check with the MIT International Student Office (ISO) to ensure their individual visa restrictions are carefully followed. Reimbursements or payments can be made by MITdesignX on a foreign student’s behalf if approved.
No, only teams receive funding. Individuals may receive payments based on reimbursements as per above. The grant is allocated to the venture not individual team members. In the case of changes made to team membership the grant follows the venture it was allocated to at the beginning of the program and is not awarded to individual team members.
Teams will only be eligible for funding after the first milestone assessment at the midterm break of the Spring semester, and upon incorporation of their business venture. If a venture is not incorporated at that time, incremental payments can be advanced to your team in the form of reimbursements or payments of accepted expenses and at the discretion of the executive director of MITdesignX. Funding will be available until March 31, 2022. Teams who do not draw on their grants and meet milestones will not receive funding after this date. The balance of funds will revert to MITdesignX. Acceptance to the MITdesignX cohort does not guarantee funding.
Up to $10,000 will be granted to teams at designX based on milestone achievements during the Spring semester.  Milestones will be evaluated at the mid-term and end of Spring semester, and as necessary beyond this time.  Teams have until March 31, 2023 to receive funding, after which time, remaining funds will revert to MITdesignX.  Grants are not transferable.  Issuing of funds is at the discretion of designX leadership. In addition to allocated grants, 3 awards totalling $10,000 will be made to teams at the end of the Spring semester at our annual pitch night.
Please contact us and share your ideas. We make every effort possible to help form teams. Others may have come to us with similar ideas. We also host informal meetups called “soundings” to share ideas. Follow us online and on twitter to hear about upcoming events.
No, only team applications with a minimum of 2 members may apply.
No, only students are required to enroll in the courses, and only students can receive credit for their work in the accelerator. Other participants are still required to attend the courses.
Yes, the courses are an integral part of the accelerator. All team members are required to attend the bootcamp between January 18 and January 28, 2022, and the 2022 Spring accelerator class. Some minor exceptions could be made on an individual basis, but must be cleared prior to the start of the accelerator.
Students may receive a total of 18 academic credits (6 credits for completing the Bootcamp during IAP and 12 credits for the Spring semester accelerator program). MITdesignX classes are electives, please check with your departments regarding your individual credit fulfillments required for your degree.
Only the original idea and team composition selected by MITdesignX will be eligible for the accelerator program and funding unless (a) a team member voluntarily quits the team and the remaining members continue or (b) an acceptable pivot by members of the remaining team continues. Funding cannot be split.
Yes, new members may join a team at any time. However, only team members who participate in the accelerator will be recognized as having taken part in MITdesignX.
No, but serial entrepreneurs are of course welcome!
You do not necessarily need a full development team at the start of the accelerator unless progress on a prototype or application is wholly dependent on that technical expertise.
A team must apply and join with at least two people, and not more than five.
No, You can only apply with one team per year.
Yes, you are always encouraged to apply. Getting feedback and developing your ideas at every stage is critical.
Yes located at 77 Massachusetts Avenue on the third floor building 7 room 336. However, per health guidelines, the program will be completely online for the 2020-2021 cohort.
No, accepted teams must join the cohort they were chosen for or forfeit their position.
Eight (8) teams will be selected in each cohort.
For the 2019 cohort, one position will be open to a team without a member of SA+P. The team must include graduate students or researchers from MIT and apply with a venture that is aligned with the focus of MITdesignX as stated above.
Applications are open from October 5 to November 6, 2020. Applications must be filled in online via our website (follow the application open button on the left side).
A selection committee will review all applications and advance up to 20 finalists for presentations and interviews before a final panel. Guidance is available for all teams during the application period.
Judges will look at the strength of the idea and the solution being proposed, as well as the feasibility of the venture, the competition, market fit, team diversity and team composition.
Ventures must be aligned with the focus of the departments, labs and centers of SA+P, proposing solutions in the realm of architecture, planning, real estate, media arts and science, and arts, culture and technology. We are looking for ventures working on innovation in cities, design and the human environment.
MITdesignX, except for one exception explained below, is open to graduate students, researchers, staff, and faculty members from the MIT School of Architecture and Planning (SA+P), in addition to their partners from other schools and departments at MIT and beyond.
Become A Mentor Support Us Pilot With Us

Our carefully selected group of mentors include successful innovators and entrepreneurs, global executives, scientists, researchers and civic and government professionals. Mentors work closely with MITdesignX startup founders and their teams providing support and mentorship across industries and expertise such as sales and marketing, funding, IP protection, IT, manufacturing and supply chain, social impact, corporate law and more. To inquire about mentoring please contact us at: designx@mit.edu

Do you want to help build a better world through design innovation and entrepreneurship?

MITdesignX supporters include businesses and individuals, alumni, and foundations. Funding for MITdesignX and the new ventures we launch relies on forward-thinkers like you who are interested in supporting the power of creative optimism and accelerating the unique skills and imagination found in entrepreneurs at MIT. Become a supporter of MITdesignX. For more information please contact us at: designx@mit.edu

Do you want to be involved with MIT entrepreneurs at the forefront of design innovation?  Yes, then join MITdesignX as civic or industry partner. The success of new ventures quite often relies on collaborative work with businesses, cities, and organizations in discovery, co-development or pilot projects. Collaboration with MITdesignX provides unique access to the next generation of technologies, products, services, and ventures and allows early stage startups with the opportunity to test and refine their work.

To become a Civic or Industry Partner contact us at: designx@mit.edu

MITdesignX 2022 Cohort Meet our cohort
See their live pitches

AiRCAD

3D modeling technology to make content creation easy and accessible for non-designers.

 

tervi.

Completing affordable housing in Columbia by providing all-in-one finance, design, and construction services for unfinished units.

 

Brella

Reinventing apparel return infrastructure and logistics to reduce environmental and economic waste.

 

Civic Atlas

Validating and connecting news, social media and government documents to provide factual information to residents for improved decision making.

 

CoHAB

Providing low-to-middle income homeowners a platform to achieve better costs, quality, and resiliency for home maintenance and repairs.

 

Grain Box

Optimizing the agricultural post-harvest value chain for independent farmers in rural India by decentralizing storage infrastructure and market connectivity.

 

La Firme

Revolutionizing the design process for homeowners in Latin America by providing easier access to design and building professionals on a digital platform.

 

Lamarr AI

An autonomous solution for rapid building envelope diagnostics using aerial data and cloud computing.

 

Re: Stacks

Redesigning the residential garage for the 21st century vehicle and homeowner.

 

Atacama

Creating a biodegradable protective wrap to replace plastic covering of construction materials.

 

Online courses at MITdesignX We offer a unique online course for venture creation and solution design
Designing

Designing High Impact Solutions

Svafa Grönfeldt and Gilad Rosenzweig

Enhance your decision-making, project management, and leadership capabilities by acquiring the tools and knowledge you need to identify, understand, frame, scale, and prioritize solutions to your most pressing challenges.

Offered by MIT Professional Education in English / en Español

Next course starts: July 6, 2022

 

 

DesignX 2022
The Middle Frame logo
The Middle Frame
Not your typical Arab images
Visible Hands logo
Visible Hands
Inclusion improves innovation.
Rarify logo
Rarify
Experience rare design.
Harness the Heat logo
Harness the Heat
Urban comfort out of thin air
UMarket logo
UMarket
An urban microbusiness cultivator for retail and food vendors of color
Somoto logo
Somoto
Somoto transforms community infrastructure into creative learning spaces for young people
Clearstory logo
Clearstory
Creating equity through negotiation.
ReFuse logo
ReFuse
Using the value of waste to create better living conditions in refugee camps.
Vertify Analytics logo
Vertify Analytics
Combining drone technology and digital collaboration tools to revolutionize urban inspection
Tangible logo
Tangible
A location Intelligence, AI prediction platform built to help tangible businesses scale.
T-Space logo
T-Space
Improving transit stations through revolutionary retail
p(art)ner logo
p(art)ner
Matching developers with diverse artists and managing public art requirements
Out of the Box logo
Out of the Box
Creating exceptional learning environments, right out of the box
Roofscapes logo
Roofscapes
Making Green Places on the Roofs of Paris
Elements logo
Elements
Design learning in a box
ECHO logo
ECHO
Digital platform to improve housing and mobility choices of lower income populations
Buy-In logo
Buy-In
Database and platform to improve government buy-out process of flood prone properties
acelab logo
acelab
Preconstruction intelligence for architects and manufacturers
Starlings Technology logo
Starlings Technology
Enhancing the sustainability, safety, and harmony of urban streets with peer-to-peer synchronized technology for micromobility
TULU logo
TULU
Live Large in Small Space
QuiX logo
QuiX
Turn-key services for home maintenance.
WATAsolution logo
WATAsolution
Assuring water quantity and quality for households in Palestine and other developing countries.
Bandhu’ logo
Bandhu’
Enabling low income workers in India to make insightful seasonal migration decisions for employment, housing and transportation.
PlaceInt logo
PlaceInt
Decoding human behavior in physical spaces to enable customer knowledge
Ogee! logo
Ogee!
A business-to-consumer company that will help homeowners save their architectural histories using digital fabrication.
Quipu logo
Quipu
A marketplace digitalization of informal economies operating in low income environments
Spatio Metrics logo
Spatio Metrics
Creating a world where every building makes us healthier
Zilper Trenchless logo
Zilper Trenchless
A novel machine for installing pipelines in urban environments without digging trenches.
Nesterly logo
Nesterly
A social enterprise that matches empty nesters with graduate students to provide housing and social solutions.
HostaLabs logo
HostaLabs
Software algorithms to turn simple pictures into intelligent 3D models for design and renovation.
Placeful logo
Placeful
Technology to identify, design and develop neighborhood-scale housing with the efficiencies of larger development.
LearningBeautiful logo
LearningBeautiful
Creating Montessori-inspired toys for young children to learn computer science-without using computers.
Bitsence logo
Bitsence
A space utilization analytics company helping managers of physical space maximize the utility of their assets through automated monitoring.
Biobot Analytics logo
Biobot Analytics
Measuring the concentration of drugs that are excreted in urine and collected in sewers and mapping this data to empower communities to tackle the opioid epidemic in real time.
Alight logo
Alight
Transforming public buses into vehicles of urban exploration by employing audio-augmented reality on smartphones.
Airworks logo
Airworks
Capturing and converting aerial imagery into digital CAD plans for site surveys and construction monitoring.
Frolic logo
Frolic
Revolutionary new financing model for homeownership that allows a greater cross section of society to engage in the housing market.
Kawsay logo
Kawsay
Connecting infrastructure providers with people living in informal communities in the developing world.
predictRE logo
predictRE
Software to help commercial real estate investors, brokers, and lenders make data-driven investment decisions based on planning and environmental trends and forecasts.
Spaceus logo
Spaceus
Empowering creative communities in cities by transforming vacant and underutilized buildings into collective and collaborative artist studios and gallery space.
Season Three logo
Season Three
Next generation all-weather boot sold direct-to-consumer.
SkinPixel logo
SkinPixel
Real-time diagnostic "smart tattoo" for human skin to monitor levels of blood analytes like glucose, sodium, potassium, albumin, and others such as those found on a basic blood panel.
Dormio logo
Dormio
Physical and digital interface to influence and record your dreams.
PREPHub logo
PREPHub
Public space infrastructure for disaster resilience and response.
Credi logo
Credi
Early childhood learning environment furniture in rural and developing parts of India.
Adaviv logo
Adaviv
AI-enabled adaptive environment for improving yields in indoor agriculture.
MIT Accelerating Innovation in Design, Cities, and the Built Environemnt
The Middle Frame Not your typical Arab images
Visible Hands Inclusion improves innovation.
Rarify Experience rare design.
Harness the Heat Urban comfort out of thin air
UMarket An urban microbusiness cultivator for retail and food vendors of color
Somoto Somoto transforms community infrastructure into creative learning spaces for young people
Clearstory Creating equity through negotiation.
ReFuse Using the value of waste to create better living conditions in refugee camps.
Vertify Analytics Combining drone technology and digital collaboration tools to revolutionize urban inspection
Tangible A location Intelligence, AI prediction platform built to help tangible businesses scale.
T-Space Improving transit stations through revolutionary retail
p(art)ner Matching developers with diverse artists and managing public art requirements
Out of the Box Creating exceptional learning environments, right out of the box
Roofscapes Making Green Places on the Roofs of Paris
Elements Design learning in a box
ECHO Digital platform to improve housing and mobility choices of lower income populations
Buy-In Database and platform to improve government buy-out process of flood prone properties
acelab Preconstruction intelligence for architects and manufacturers
Starlings Technology Enhancing the sustainability, safety, and harmony of urban streets with peer-to-peer synchronized technology for micromobility
TULU Live Large in Small Space
QuiX Turn-key services for home maintenance.
WATAsolution Assuring water quantity and quality for households in Palestine and other developing countries.
Bandhu’ Enabling low income workers in India to make insightful seasonal migration decisions for employment, housing and transportation.
PlaceInt Decoding human behavior in physical spaces to enable customer knowledge
Ogee! A business-to-consumer company that will help homeowners save their architectural histories using digital fabrication.
Quipu A marketplace digitalization of informal economies operating in low income environments
Spatio Metrics Creating a world where every building makes us healthier
Zilper Trenchless A novel machine for installing pipelines in urban environments without digging trenches.
Nesterly A social enterprise that matches empty nesters with graduate students to provide housing and social solutions.
HostaLabs Software algorithms to turn simple pictures into intelligent 3D models for design and renovation.
Placeful Technology to identify, design and develop neighborhood-scale housing with the efficiencies of larger development.
LearningBeautiful Creating Montessori-inspired toys for young children to learn computer science-without using computers.
Bitsence A space utilization analytics company helping managers of physical space maximize the utility of their assets through automated monitoring.
Biobot Analytics Measuring the concentration of drugs that are excreted in urine and collected in sewers and mapping this data to empower communities to tackle the opioid epidemic in real time.
Alight Transforming public buses into vehicles of urban exploration by employing audio-augmented reality on smartphones.
Airworks Capturing and converting aerial imagery into digital CAD plans for site surveys and construction monitoring.
Frolic Revolutionary new financing model for homeownership that allows a greater cross section of society to engage in the housing market.
Kawsay Connecting infrastructure providers with people living in informal communities in the developing world.
predictRE Software to help commercial real estate investors, brokers, and lenders make data-driven investment decisions based on planning and environmental trends and forecasts.
Spaceus Empowering creative communities in cities by transforming vacant and underutilized buildings into collective and collaborative artist studios and gallery space.
Season Three Next generation all-weather boot sold direct-to-consumer.
SkinPixel Real-time diagnostic "smart tattoo" for human skin to monitor levels of blood analytes like glucose, sodium, potassium, albumin, and others such as those found on a basic blood panel.
Dormio Physical and digital interface to influence and record your dreams.
PREPHub Public space infrastructure for disaster resilience and response.
Credi Early childhood learning environment furniture in rural and developing parts of India.
Adaviv AI-enabled adaptive environment for improving yields in indoor agriculture.
MITdesignX 2022 Cohort in session Applications for 2023 open in the Fall
MITdesignX 2022 Cohort Meet our cohort Online courses at MITdesignX We offer a unique online course for venture creation and solution design
Join us Our Supporters
MITdesignX 2022 Cohort in session Applications for 2023 open in the Fall
Admission Timeline FAQ

MITdesignX seeks diverse, interdisciplinary teams working on challenging ideas with clear vision, passion and drive to design solutions and launch a real venture. Applications go through a rigorous selection process that reviews ideas based on human and social impact, feasibility, uniqueness, and scalability as well as team composition, diversity and skillset.

 

Apply HERE

Selection

Up to 10 teams are selected for each cohort. Applicants can include graduate students, researchers, staff and/or faculty members from the MIT School of Architecture and Planning as well as from all MIT schools, other universities and industry.

Requirements

One participant on a team is required to be an active student, faculty, researcher or staff member of MIT. Preference will be given to teams that include SA+P members.

Alumni

Alumni MITdesignX teams include participants from the Architecture and Planning departments, the Center for Real Estate, the program for Arts, Technology and Culture (ACT), and the Media Lab in addition to many participants from across MIT including computer science, engineering, management, biology, and the humanities.

Application

Applications for the 2023 cohort open on October 1. A selection committee will review all applications and advance up to 20 finalists for presentations and interviews before a final panel. Guidance is available for all teams during the application period. Applications are due November 1.

Accelerator Studio

The program begins with an all day Bootcamp during the MIT IAP period. The bootcamp program requires full team participation for the full two week session. The Accelerator Studio begins during the MIT Spring semester. The 16 week accelerator studio will follow the MITdesignX academic framework outlined in the about section.

Pitch-Out

Pitch-out is held after the completion of the Accelerator Studio. Pitch-out is a culmination of teams communicating their prototype, investor pitch deck and "masterplan” for their venture. Pitch-out is a key moment for teams to introduce their ventures to hundreds of investors, stakeholders, civic and industry partners.

Applications for the 2023 cohort open on October 1, 2022. A selection committee will review all applications and advance up to 20 finalists for presentations and interviews before a final panel in December. The MITdesignX Venture Accelerator starts with a Bootcamp in January during the MIT IAP period, followed by an accelerator class in the Spring semester. After the final pitch night in May, teams continue to work on the development and scaling of their ventures and have access to workspace, mentors and staff until the end of the year. All participants must attend IAP and Spring courses.

Yes. MIT is open for in-person learning and we are scheduled to hold all classes and workshops from our base in the School of Architecture and Planning. Participation in designX will require in-person attendance in accordance with MIT rules.
Our selection committee looks at the following criteria when evaluating applications: Is the venture solving a valid problem or addressing an apt opportunity? Is the proposed solution a good fit? Is the team capable of developing the necessary solution?* Is there a market need or societal need for the proposed venture? Will this venture make an impact on design, cities, and/or the human environment? Is there entrenched competition, regulations or lack of technology or accessibility that could make development of the venture impossible?**   * teams don’t need all technical members on board, but need to have a good connection or understanding of a proposed technology if applicable **we do like solving the impossible though, so work your way through this criteria if necessary.
This year, after a first-round selection we will invite up to 20 teams for a brief meeting to speak and help clarify information from the application itself. Meetings will take place from Nov. 9-16.  Ideally, all members of the team will attend, but exceptions will be made for scheduling purposes. Finalists will then be invited to pitch their ventures in person on the afternoon of Dec 3 before a selection committee and select guests including MITdesignX alumni, partners and mentors. The committee will make a final selection of up to 10 ventures.  Decisions will be announced by Dec 7.
MITdesignX was created in SA+P to accelerate ventures in design, cities and the human environment, and provide a dedicated entrepreneurial program primarily for members of the SA+P community.   As such, preference will be given to teams with at least one SA+P founding member.  However, we can accept teams from across MIT as long as the focus of the venture is in the realm specified above.
Yes, but you cannot attend a workshop based program at the same time as our bootcamp or Spring class (such as the I-Lab at Harvard).  Programs like Sandbox, 100K, or Creative Arts can we joined concurrent to designX.
Yes, ventures can join other programs such as DeltaV, Legatum, MIT100K, Sandbox, VMS, PKG and more. However, while in designX we require that you coordinate with us regarding mentors. Having multiple mentors in different programs can be unproductive.
Yes, many students interested in developing their thesis ideas into ventures apply to the program and take advantage of the vast entrepreneurial resources made available through MITdesignX to fast-track the development of their ideas, designs and technologies. You must discuss this with your thesis advisor.
At MITdesignX, IP is considered the property of the individuals and/or teams. MIT will not stake IP or patent claims to new ideas developed at MITdesignX. If your idea was created as part of prior research at MIT, or uses specific lab support of MIT, then MIT IP may apply. Teams must clear any MIT IP issues with the MIT TLO. Work by faculty or staff of MIT may also be subject to MIT rules pertaining to IP. The program offers resources to assist you in protecting and filing patents.
The grant is awarded to fund initial team expenses needed to develop the idea, including, but not limited to: data collection, database access, incorporation and legal costs, travel costs associated with meeting potential partners or customers, programming, marketing, or product development. MITdesignX reserves all rights to make decisions on acceptable use of funds. All expenses and procurement must be acceptable to MIT rules and guidelines.
No, funding can only be made to U.S. entities, or paid as reimbursements to MIT students, staff, affiliates and faculty.
No, grant funding from MITdesignX cannot be used for sponsored research funding at MIT.
No, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is not required to receive team grants. However, businesses receiving funds must be legally registered in the United States. Participants on student visas must check with the MIT International Student Office (ISO) to ensure their individual visa restrictions are carefully followed. Reimbursements or payments can be made by MITdesignX on a foreign student’s behalf if approved.
No, only teams receive funding. Individuals may receive payments based on reimbursements as per above. The grant is allocated to the venture not individual team members. In the case of changes made to team membership the grant follows the venture it was allocated to at the beginning of the program and is not awarded to individual team members.
Teams will only be eligible for funding after the first milestone assessment at the midterm break of the Spring semester, and upon incorporation of their business venture. If a venture is not incorporated at that time, incremental payments can be advanced to your team in the form of reimbursements or payments of accepted expenses and at the discretion of the executive director of MITdesignX. Funding will be available until March 31, 2022. Teams who do not draw on their grants and meet milestones will not receive funding after this date. The balance of funds will revert to MITdesignX. Acceptance to the MITdesignX cohort does not guarantee funding.
Up to $10,000 will be granted to teams at designX based on milestone achievements during the Spring semester.  Milestones will be evaluated at the mid-term and end of Spring semester, and as necessary beyond this time.  Teams have until March 31, 2023 to receive funding, after which time, remaining funds will revert to MITdesignX.  Grants are not transferable.  Issuing of funds is at the discretion of designX leadership. In addition to allocated grants, 3 awards totalling $10,000 will be made to teams at the end of the Spring semester at our annual pitch night.
Please contact us and share your ideas. We make every effort possible to help form teams. Others may have come to us with similar ideas. We also host informal meetups called “soundings” to share ideas. Follow us online and on twitter to hear about upcoming events.
No, only team applications with a minimum of 2 members may apply.
No, only students are required to enroll in the courses, and only students can receive credit for their work in the accelerator. Other participants are still required to attend the courses.
Yes, the courses are an integral part of the accelerator. All team members are required to attend the bootcamp between January 18 and January 28, 2022, and the 2022 Spring accelerator class. Some minor exceptions could be made on an individual basis, but must be cleared prior to the start of the accelerator.
Students may receive a total of 18 academic credits (6 credits for completing the Bootcamp during IAP and 12 credits for the Spring semester accelerator program). MITdesignX classes are electives, please check with your departments regarding your individual credit fulfillments required for your degree.
Only the original idea and team composition selected by MITdesignX will be eligible for the accelerator program and funding unless (a) a team member voluntarily quits the team and the remaining members continue or (b) an acceptable pivot by members of the remaining team continues. Funding cannot be split.
Yes, new members may join a team at any time. However, only team members who participate in the accelerator will be recognized as having taken part in MITdesignX.
No, but serial entrepreneurs are of course welcome!
You do not necessarily need a full development team at the start of the accelerator unless progress on a prototype or application is wholly dependent on that technical expertise.
A team must apply and join with at least two people, and not more than five.
No, You can only apply with one team per year.
Yes, you are always encouraged to apply. Getting feedback and developing your ideas at every stage is critical.
Yes located at 77 Massachusetts Avenue on the third floor building 7 room 336. However, per health guidelines, the program will be completely online for the 2020-2021 cohort.
No, accepted teams must join the cohort they were chosen for or forfeit their position.
Eight (8) teams will be selected in each cohort.
For the 2019 cohort, one position will be open to a team without a member of SA+P. The team must include graduate students or researchers from MIT and apply with a venture that is aligned with the focus of MITdesignX as stated above.
Applications are open from October 5 to November 6, 2020. Applications must be filled in online via our website (follow the application open button on the left side).
A selection committee will review all applications and advance up to 20 finalists for presentations and interviews before a final panel. Guidance is available for all teams during the application period.
Judges will look at the strength of the idea and the solution being proposed, as well as the feasibility of the venture, the competition, market fit, team diversity and team composition.
Ventures must be aligned with the focus of the departments, labs and centers of SA+P, proposing solutions in the realm of architecture, planning, real estate, media arts and science, and arts, culture and technology. We are looking for ventures working on innovation in cities, design and the human environment.
MITdesignX, except for one exception explained below, is open to graduate students, researchers, staff, and faculty members from the MIT School of Architecture and Planning (SA+P), in addition to their partners from other schools and departments at MIT and beyond.
Become A Mentor Support Us Pilot With Us

Our carefully selected group of mentors include successful innovators and entrepreneurs, global executives, scientists, researchers and civic and government professionals. Mentors work closely with MITdesignX startup founders and their teams providing support and mentorship across industries and expertise such as sales and marketing, funding, IP protection, IT, manufacturing and supply chain, social impact, corporate law and more. To inquire about mentoring please contact us at: designx@mit.edu

Do you want to help build a better world through design innovation and entrepreneurship?

MITdesignX supporters include businesses and individuals, alumni, and foundations. Funding for MITdesignX and the new ventures we launch relies on forward-thinkers like you who are interested in supporting the power of creative optimism and accelerating the unique skills and imagination found in entrepreneurs at MIT. Become a supporter of MITdesignX. For more information please contact us at: designx@mit.edu

Do you want to be involved with MIT entrepreneurs at the forefront of design innovation?  Yes, then join MITdesignX as civic or industry partner. The success of new ventures quite often relies on collaborative work with businesses, cities, and organizations in discovery, co-development or pilot projects. Collaboration with MITdesignX provides unique access to the next generation of technologies, products, services, and ventures and allows early stage startups with the opportunity to test and refine their work.

To become a Civic or Industry Partner contact us at: designx@mit.edu

MITdesignX 2022 Cohort Meet our cohort
See their live pitches

AiRCAD

3D modeling technology to make content creation easy and accessible for non-designers.

 

tervi.

Completing affordable housing in Columbia by providing all-in-one finance, design, and construction services for unfinished units.

 

Brella

Reinventing apparel return infrastructure and logistics to reduce environmental and economic waste.

 

Civic Atlas

Validating and connecting news, social media and government documents to provide factual information to residents for improved decision making.

 

CoHAB

Providing low-to-middle income homeowners a platform to achieve better costs, quality, and resiliency for home maintenance and repairs.

 

Grain Box

Optimizing the agricultural post-harvest value chain for independent farmers in rural India by decentralizing storage infrastructure and market connectivity.

 

La Firme

Revolutionizing the design process for homeowners in Latin America by providing easier access to design and building professionals on a digital platform.

 

Lamarr AI

An autonomous solution for rapid building envelope diagnostics using aerial data and cloud computing.

 

Re: Stacks

Redesigning the residential garage for the 21st century vehicle and homeowner.

 

Atacama

Creating a biodegradable protective wrap to replace plastic covering of construction materials.

 

Online courses at MITdesignX We offer a unique online course for venture creation and solution design
Designing

Designing High Impact Solutions

Svafa Grönfeldt and Gilad Rosenzweig

Enhance your decision-making, project management, and leadership capabilities by acquiring the tools and knowledge you need to identify, understand, frame, scale, and prioritize solutions to your most pressing challenges.

Offered by MIT Professional Education in English / en Español

Next course starts: July 6, 2022

 

 

news 06.27.2022
MIT News and Quipu Marketplace CEO Mercedes Bidart Discuss Decentralized Banking

MIT News interviews Quipu Market co-cofounder, CEO,  and MITDesignX 2019 alumni, Mercedes Bidart SM ’19, to discuss the start-up’s growth and its vision for decentralized banking. Read the piece here: https://news.mit.edu/2022/quipu-market-business-loans-0624

news 05.27.2022
Mariana Matus (co-founder, Biobot Analytics) is ranked on the Boston Globe’s ‘Tech Power Players 50’ list

Mariana is the co-founder of Biobot Analytics (MITdesignX 2017) is ranked #8 among the 50 top people influencing the technology industry in Massachusetts. Read more: https://bostontechleaders.bostonglobe.com/people/mariana-matus-biobot-analytics/

news 05.24.2022
Visible Hands (MITdesignX 2020) partners with Google on Latinx entrepreneur training

Together with Google, Visible Hands will launch a program called VHLX to train 20 selected individuals on the basics of building a start-up and attracting funding. Read more: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/05/24/business/boston-vcs-partner-with-google-entrepreneur-training/

news 04.22.2022
TULU (MITdesignX 18) closes $20 million Series A round led by VC New Era Capital Partners

Read more: CTECH

news 04.22.2022
Roofscapes’ (MITdesignX 20) approach to greening roofs highlighted in Le Figaro

Read here (in French): Le Figaro

news 03.25.2022
Kelly Leilani Main, Co-Founder of Buy-In Community Planning (MITDesignX 20), Named A Grist 50 2022 Fixer

Cofounder & Executive Director of Buy-In Community Planning, Kelly Leilani Main, is named a Grist 50 2022 Fixer. She joins a group of emerging leaders in sustainability, climate, and equity. Read her story here: https://grist.org/fix/grist-50/2022/#kelly-leilani-main

news 03.09.2022
Quipu Market (DesignX ’19) is named a top 10 Most Innovative Company in Latin America by Fast Company

Co-founders Mercedes Bidart, Juan Cristobal Constain, and Viviana Siless continue their work of building communities by supporting microbusinesses. Read the list here: https://t.co/vwe2SHUDd8

news 03.07.2022
Roofscapes (x20) is among leading innovators featured in this must-read piece by Axelle Parriaux from the BBC

https://www.bbc.com/future/bespoke/follow-the-food/the-people-building-edible-cities/

news 02.08.2022
Jean-Jacques Degroof (PhD ’02 Sloan) Shares the Story of Entrepreneurship at MIT Through the Lens of MITDesignX

With MITDesignX and Biobot Analytics as the focus, Jean-Jacques Degroof explores the entrepreneurial ecosystem here at MIT. Read more: https://mitsap.medium.com/from-the-lab-to-the-marketplace-5edc49920f06

news 01.20.2022
Mariana Matus (co-founder, Biobot Analytics) Explains COVID-19 Case Forecasting Using Sewage Data

Read more: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/19/health/covid-omicron-wastewater-sewage.html

news 01.05.2022
Lamarr.AI (DesignX 2022) Joins Gensler For Second Phase of US Department of Energy E-ROBOT Prize

The team will join Gensler as a partner, where the team will share their expertise and suite of built environment AI tools. Read more here: https://www.gensler.com/blog/recruiting-robotics-against-climate-change

news 01.03.2022
Biobot Analytics (MITDesignX ’17) among top wastewater analysis leaders tracking Covid-19 surge

Read how they are responding here: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna10451

news 01.03.2022
Mariana Matus (co-founder, Biobot Analytics) details the predictive power of wastewater analysis

Mariana Matus, co-founder of @BiobotAnalytics (MITdesignX 17) explains how wastewater analysis can give a very early indication of the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) in cities. Read more here: https://www.wsj.com/articles/to-track-covid-19-surges-scientists-are-studying-sewage-11640082603

news 12.23.2021
Biobot Analytics (MITDesignX 2017) is named a Newsweek Disruptor

Read the list here: https://www.newsweek.com/2021/12/24/americas-greatest-disruptors-enterprising-idealists-1659084.html

news 12.23.2021
Out of the Box (MITDesignX 2020) shares their curriculum development with Dorm Room Fund

Read the interview here: https://blog.dormroomfund.com/post/how-education-startup-out-of-the-box-builds-preschool-curriculums

news 12.23.2021
Zilper Trenchless (MITDesignX 2019) receives funding from Bertzman Social Ventures

Read more here: https://bertzman.com/bertzman-funds-zilper-trenchless

news 10.22.2021
Biobot Analytics (x17) raises $20 million in Series A financing

Read more at the following link: Bloomberg

news 09.13.2021
Roofscapes (x20) debuts exhibition for the 2021 Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism.

Designed for the 2021 Seoul Biennale, it is currently on view in Paris, France. Learn more: https://www.roofscapes.studio/newsfeed/head-in-the-clouds-at-academie-du-climat

news 07.22.2021
Adaviv (DesignX 2018) Raises $2.3M in Seed Round

Read more: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/adaviv-raises-2-3m-upsized-124900792.html

news 07.14.2021
Acelab (DesignX 2020) Announces $3.5M Seed Round

Read more: https://blog.acelabusa.com/acelab-announces-3-5m-seed-round-to-build-marketplace-for-architects-and-manufacturers/

news 06.30.2021
Visible Hands Receives $750,000 Philanthropic Contribution

Visible Hands (DesignX 2020) has received a $750,000 philanthropic contribution from JPMorgan Chase in support of their inaugural fellowship program. Read More: https://medium.com/visible-hands-vc/visible-hands-receives-750-000-philanthropic-contribution-from-jpmorgan-chase-ed2295c0405a

news 06.07.2021
Visible Hands (x20) highlighted for their work increasing diversity in venture capital

Read more: Boston Globe

news 06.07.2021
Two DesignX alumni teams are winners of the 2021 Virginia RISE Coastal Community Resilience Challenge

Hosta Labs (DesignX 2017) and Zilper Trenchless (DesignX 2019) are finalists of the RISE challenge that will enable them to perform pilots, in addition to their grant prizes. Read more: https://t.co/smBzPWXy97?amp=1

news 05.18.2021
How a Confluence of Technology and Social Concerns Will Shape Infrastructure in the Post-Pandemic City

The DesignX hosted symposium, “Design >> Fast-Forward”, is featured in this review and discussion of the infrastructure design and construction topics presented across panels.

Read more.

news 04.09.2021
Visible Hands’ (dX 2020) inaugural virtual fellowship highlighted

Visible Hands’ newly announced virtual fellowship is highlighted in BostInno. Applications for their fellowship are open now. Read more here.

news 03.05.2021
Zilper Trenchless (dx 19) is listed on Forbes’ Top 30 Business Promises in Colombia for 2021

Zilper Trenchless, members of the 2019 designX cohort, currently operate in Colombia. Read more here (ESP): https://forbes.co/2021/03/05/emprendedores/las30deforbes-zilper-trenchless/amp/

news 02.26.2021
Entrepreneurial journey of UMarket (dx21) co-founder Aiyah Josiah-Faeduwor and his family are featured in the Boston Globe.

Read more here: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2021/02/26/metro/evicted-boston-new-west-african-restaurant-is-being-welcomed-providence/ 

news 02.17.2021
Biobot’s (dx 17) wastewater expertise highlighted in fight against rising COVID strains – Vice News

Read more here: https://www.vice.com/en/article/3anemj/we-need-a-national-poop-testing-strategy-to-stop-mutant-coronavirus-strains

news 01.14.2021
Natasha Sadikin (designX 2020) speaks to MIT News on real estate and design

Natasha Sadikin, member of designX 2020 venture P(art)ner, speaks to MIT News about the confluence of design and real estate in her work. https://news.mit.edu/2021/sadikin-real-estate-design-0114

news 01.05.2021
Biobot Analytics recognized as a top 100 GovTech company for 2021

Read more here: https://www.govtech.com/biz/Essential-The-2021-GovTech-100.html

news 01.04.2021
Acelab selected as a top architecture startup to follow by Startupill

Acelab (designX 2020) has been recognized as a top architecture startup to follow. See the complete list here: https://startupill.com/38-innovative-architecture-startups-worth-a-follow-in-2020/

news 12.10.2020
Biobot Analytics’ work recognized as Technology of the Year by Smart Cities Dive

Biobot Analytics’ (MITdesignX 2017) wastewater epidemiology tech has been recognized as “Technology of the Year”.

Read more: https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/technology-of-year-biobot-analytics-2020/588313/

news 11.25.2020
Biobot Analytics and MIT professor highlight epidemiological power of toilets

Biobot Analytics (MITdesignx 2017) and MIT professor Eric Alm explain the public health insights to be gained from our toilets. Read more here.

news 10.28.2020
Biobot Analytics wastewater expertise highlighted by CNN amid rising Covid cases

As Covid-19 cases rise across the U.S., Biobot’s technology and analysis are being used as part of the public health arsenals of municipalities across the country. Read more here.

news 10.15.2020
Quipu Places Third in the Visa Everywhere Initiative

Quipu, members of the 2020 MITdesignX cohort, placed third in the Visa Everywhere Initiative in Latin America and the Caribbean. You can learn more about the initiative and watch the virtual showcase here.

news 10.04.2020
Biobot helping get schools reopened sooner

“What we measure today predicts what happens in the community in four to seven days. So it’s sort of like looking into a crystal ball in the shape of a toilet,”

Watch here on WGBH

news 07.23.2020
Season Three discusses boot design with Design Milk

Season Three (MITdesignX 2018) walks Design Milk through the creative process of their first boot, the Ansel. Read more: https://design-milk.com/season-three-breaks-down-the-design-process-behind-the-ansel/

news 07.22.2020
AirWorks selected as finalist in 2020 New England Innovation Awards

AirWorks, member of the 2018 MITdesignX cohort, is among 25 firms selected from New England to move onto the finals in October. Read more here.

news 07.20.2020
The first QuipuMarket is profiled in El Heraldo

The community of Villas de San Pablo in Barranquilla, Colombia, the location of the first QuipuMarket created by team Quipu (2019), is featured. Read more. 

news 06.30.2020
Scientific American highlights work of Biobot Analytics and wastewater-based epidemiology

Read more.

news 06.22.2020
Season Three’s Brand and Start-Up Journey Featured

Season Three, a fashion brand and alum of MITdesignX (2008), share their history and their brand philosophy in this feature. Read more.

news 05.12.2020
DesignX Team TULU Offers Renters In-Building Products and Services

DesignX 2018 team TULU is equipping New Yorkers with household products, printers, and mobility options right from their own building. Read more.

news 04.27.2020
Biobot Analytics raises $4.2 Million in funding, supporting COVID-19 research

Biobot Analytics, member of the inaugural MITdesignX cohort, has raised $4.2 million in funding to support their research into COVID-19. Read more. 

news 04.26.2020
Nesterly teams up with the City of Boston to promote volunteerism for the elderly

Nesterly, a MITdesignX alumna team, has partnered with the City of Boston to launch the ‘Good Neighbors’ program. Read more. 

news 02.04.2020
AirWorks named one of Boston’s “50 Startups to Watch in 2020”

AirWorks, alum of the 2018 MITdesignX cohort, is listed among Built In Boston’s 50 Startups to watch this year. Read the list here: https://tinyurl.com/s8yxjsq

news 02.04.2020
Biobot Analytics listed on New York Times’ 2019 “Good Tech Awards”

MITdesignX 2017 alum, Biobot Analytics, has been listed on the New York Times’ 2019 “Good Tech Awards”, in recognition of their work tackling the opioid crisis. Read more.

news 02.04.2020
SpaceUs discusses the future of artists spaces with Fast Company

A wonderful feature on SpaceUs, an MITdesignX 2018 alum, and the future of artist spaces. Read more.

news 02.04.2020
Season Three founders discuss brand building with Forbes

Season Three, graduates of the MITdesignX 2018 cohort, are interviewed about their unique branding strategy. Read more.

news 12.03.2019
MITdesignX alum Lipifai featured on list of upcoming assistive tech in Israel

Lipifai, an alum of MITdesignX cohort 2019, is featured on a list of burgeoning, Israeli-based assistive tech. Read more.

news 07.29.2019
MITdesignX Faculty Director’s firm designs new marine city in China

Professor Dennis Frenchman and his firm, Tekuma Frenchman, win competition to reimagine the waterfront in Shenzhen, China. Read more at MIT NEWS

news 07.24.2019
Nesterly CEO interviewed by NPR to discuss housing crisis

Nesterly (MITdesignX cohort 2017) CEO Noelle Marcus discusses the global housing crisis through the lens of renters and senior homeowners.

Read more.

news 06.28.2019
Zilper Trenchless highlighted in The Buzz

A member of the 2019 MITdesignX cohort, Zilper Trenchless is highlighted in The Buzz. Read more about their history and their future here.

news 06.07.2019
MITdesignX highlighted as source for design entrepreneurs in Architect Magazine

MITdesignX’s curriculum is highlighted in this May Architect Magazine’s survey of entrepreneurs in the building industry. Read more.

news 05.24.2019
Nesterly featured in Wall Street Journal article on innovations in urban senior living

Read more.

news 04.10.2019
Zilper Trenchless wins prizes at Rice University Business Plan Competition

MITdesignX 2019 venture Zilper Trenchless wins multiple cash prizes at the annual Rice Business Plan Competition. In total, they won $435,000. Read more.

news 04.10.2019
MET Fund launched to support MITdesignX

Seed fund will support venture-design education and entrepreneurship in the School of Architecture and Planning. Read more. 

news 03.27.2019
Zilper Trenchless inducted into Imagine H2O’s 10th annual accelerator

MITdesignX 2019 venture Zilper Trenchless has been accepted into Imagine H20 2019’s cohort. They also received the Audience Choice Award at Imagine H2O Demo Day.

Read more

 

news 03.21.2019
Storefronts go from empty to artistic

Spaceus, MITdesignX 2018 alums, are among those featured in this article on transforming empty storefronts in Massachusetts.

Read More

news 03.19.2019
Rethinking What Makes a Great Roommate

MITdesignX venture Nesterly (Cohort 2017) is featured in this AARP article:

Read More

news 03.07.2019
Israeli and Palestinian architects and planners seek common ground on innovation, entrepreneurship

Read More

news 02.21.2019
Biobot Analytics (MITDesignX 2017) Named a Forbes Women-Led Startup “Crushing Tech”

Biobot Analytics is included among 50 top women led startups, curated by Forbes magazine (2019). Read more here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/allysonkapin/2019/02/20/50-women-led-startups-who-are-crushing-tech/?sh=7293a66d52b3

press 02.01.2019
Cohort 2018 team AirWorks raises $2.3M seed round

Read more

press 12.04.2018
MITdesignX Selects New Cohort: Nine multi-disciplinary teams join MIT’s design entrepreneurship accelerator

Read more

 

 

press 07.31.2018
This MIT Startup, AirWorks, Aims To Be The Top Aerial Data Analytics Service For Construction Firms

Read more

press 07.19.2018
Seniors have too much house. Millennials have none. And a business model is born.

MITdesignX Cohort 2017 start-up nesterly featured in the Globe and Mail:

Read more

press 06.25.2018
Scientists can track the spread of opioids in sewers. But do cities want to know what lies below?

Biobot helps cities transform sewage into actionable public health data to tackle the opioid crisis.

Read more

press 04.21.2018
Inside MIT’s Future Factory

Cohort 2018 startup Dormio featured on 60 Minutes:

Watch here

news 05.11.2017
How Startup Accelerator DesignX Turns Architecture Students into Entrepreneurs

Read more

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2022
News Detective Fighting misinformation on social media.
Atacama Accelerating the transition towards a circular economy by developing new…
Lamarr.ai An autonomous solution for rapid building envelope diagnostics using aerial…
Brella Reinventing apparel return infrastructure to reduce environmental and economic waste.
Grain Box Optimizing post-harvest value chain for smallholder farmers in rural India.
La Firme Democratizing access to architectural and engineering services in Latin America…
Civic Atlas Helping local governments build trust and fight gridlock through simpler…
Cohab Improving quality, costs, and resiliency of home maintenance for low-to-middle…
RE: Stacks Designing the residential garage of the future.
tervi Completing affordable housing in Columbia.
AiRCAD 3D modeling technology to make content creation easy and accessible…
2021
The Middle Frame Not your typical Arab images
Harness the Heat Urban comfort out of thin air
UMarket An urban microbusiness cultivator for retail and food vendors of…
Somoto Somoto transforms community infrastructure into creative learning spaces for young…
Clearstory Creating equity through negotiation.
ReFuse Using the value of waste to create better living conditions…
Vertify Analytics Combining drone technology and digital collaboration tools to revolutionize urban…
Tangible A location Intelligence, AI prediction platform built to help tangible…
2020
Visible Hands Inclusion improves innovation.
Rarify Experience rare design.
T-Space Improving transit stations through revolutionary retail
p(art)ner Matching developers with diverse artists and managing public art requirements
Out of the Box Creating exceptional learning environments, right out of the box
Roofscapes Making Green Places on the Roofs of Paris
Elements Design learning in a box
ECHO Digital platform to improve housing and mobility choices of lower…
Buy-In Database and platform to improve government buy-out process of flood…
acelab Preconstruction intelligence for architects and manufacturers
Starlings Technology Enhancing the sustainability, safety, and harmony of urban streets with…
2019
Bandhu’ Enabling low income workers in India to make insightful seasonal…
DomusAI An AI-powered system that generates customizable interior designs, cost estimation,…
PlaceInt Decoding human behavior in physical spaces to enable customer knowledge
Ogee! A business-to-consumer company that will help homeowners save their architectural…
Quipu A marketplace digitalization of informal economies operating in low income…
Spatio Metrics Creating a world where every building makes us healthier
Roux Supporting economic growth by connecting customers to minority owned businesses…
Stakd A flat-pack pre-fab house that can be rapidly deployed after…
Zilper Trenchless A novel machine for installing pipelines in urban environments without…
2018
TULU Live Large in Small Space
QuiX Turn-key services for home maintenance.
WATAsolution Assuring water quantity and quality for households in Palestine and…
Alight Transforming public buses into vehicles of urban exploration by employing…
Airworks Capturing and converting aerial imagery into digital CAD plans for…
Frolic Revolutionary new financing model for homeownership that allows a greater…
Kawsay Connecting infrastructure providers with people living in informal communities in…
predictRE Software to help commercial real estate investors, brokers, and lenders…
Spaceus Empowering creative communities in cities by transforming vacant and underutilized…
Season Three Next generation all-weather boot sold direct-to-consumer.
SkinPixel Real-time diagnostic "smart tattoo" for human skin to monitor levels…
Dormio Physical and digital interface to influence and record your dreams.
PREPHub Public space infrastructure for disaster resilience and response.
Adaviv AI-enabled adaptive environment for improving yields in indoor agriculture.
2017
Nesterly A social enterprise that matches empty nesters with graduate students…
HostaLabs Software algorithms to turn simple pictures into intelligent 3D models…
Placeful Technology to identify, design and develop neighborhood-scale housing with the…
LearningBeautiful Creating Montessori-inspired toys for young children to learn computer science-without…
Mediate Wearable devices for people with visual impairment.
Bitsence A space utilization analytics company helping managers of physical space…
Biobot Analytics Measuring the concentration of drugs that are excreted in urine…
Credi Early childhood learning environment furniture in rural and developing parts…
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