Durham's Top 10 Startups That Tech Professionals Should Watch Out For in 2024

Durham's startup scene is straight up fire right now, making it the place to be for techies lookin' to get their hustle on. A few key things are fueling this growth: an entrepreneurial community that's poppin', top-tier university talent, and a cost of living that won't break the bank like those major tech hubs.

The city is home to innovative startups across industries like biotech, healthtech, and enterprise software.

Plus, with major players like IBM, Microsoft, and Google setting up shop here, there are plenty of opportunities for collabs and talent exchanges.

According to this report, venture capital funding for local startups hit a whopping $1.3 billion in 2022, a 40% spike from the previous year.

The report also highlighted Durham's stacked talent pipeline, with over 10,000 grads from top schools like Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, and NC State hitting the workforce annually.

As David Thomas, CEO of local startup ArchiveSocial, put it: "Durham is quickly becoming a magnet for tech talent and innovation, offering an unbeatable combo of affordability, quality of life, and access to world-class education and research resources." With opportunities like high-demand tech skills, Durham is definitely the move for anyone looking to level up their career.

When we were putting together this list of Durham's top 10 startups to watch for in 2024, we didn't just wing it. We had a whole strategy to pick the ones that are killing it with the product-market fit and have serious talent on the team.

We looked at data from major players like CB Insights and Crunchbase to see which startups were raking in the funding and showing real traction. But we didn't just stop there – we also hit up industry experts and analysts to get the inside scoop on emerging trends and promising verticals.

When we were narrowing it down, we were all about finding startups that are seriously shaking things up with their fresh ideas and disruptive tech.

We wanted companies that aren't just talking the talk but actually making bank and attracting investors left and right. And let's be real, a startup is nothing without an A-team, so we made sure to prioritize companies that are magnets for top tech talent – the kind of places where you can level up your skills and propel your career to new heights.

Trust us, this list is stacked with the startups that are going to be making major waves in 2024.

We're talking about companies that are pushing boundaries, solving real problems, and creating opportunities for tech pros to be part of something big. So, keep your eyes peeled – these startups are about to blow up in the best way possible.

Have you heard about PrecisionHawk? This Durham-based startup, founded back in 2010, is seriously shaking things up in the aerial data game.

They're the real deal when it comes to using drone tech to give businesses across different industries a major edge.

PrecisionHawk has got the whole package covered.

They design and build their own badass drones loaded with high-tech sensors and long-range capabilities, perfect for commercial use. But that's just the start.

Their software is next level, using AI to process massive amounts of aerial data and create sick 2D and 3D maps that'll blow your mind.

And if that wasn't enough, they've got a team of experts who know their stuff inside out.

These guys analyze the aerial data and provide customized solutions to help companies in agriculture, construction, energy, and more industries optimize their operations like never before.

It's like having a cheat code for efficiency!

PrecisionHawk is going ham, too. In 2022, they scored a whopping $32 million in Series D funding, setting them up to expand globally.

When Hurricane Ian hit in 2022, their tech was a lifesaver, providing crucial aerial data to aid in disaster response efforts. Talk about stepping up when it counts!

According to CEO Matthew White, "PrecisionHawk's cutting-edge solutions have revolutionized how businesses harness the power of aerial data. We're just getting started, and our team is committed to driving further innovations that unlock new realms of operational efficiency." Sounds like these guys are just warming up, and 2024 is going to be huge for them.

Keep an eye on PrecisionHawk – they're about to take the aerial intelligence game to a whole new level!

Let's talk about Teamworks, that sick sports tech startup from Durham that's been making waves since 2006.

These guys are all about keeping athletes and coaches on the same page and running like a well-oiled machine. They've got this crazy platform that handles everything from communication and scheduling to performance tracking and compliance.

It's like having your own digital coach, keeping the whole squad in sync.

But here's the real kicker - Teamworks ain't just some small-time operation.

These guys have been crushing it, with over 6,000 teams worldwide relying on their system, including 520 college athletic departments, 330 pro organizations, and 65 leagues and governing bodies.

And let's not forget the massive $164 million in funding they've raised so far, making them a certified unicorn in the sports tech game.

Teamworks ain't resting on their laurels.

They've got big plans for 2024, like expanding their reach globally and using cutting-edge AI to give teams even more insights and personalized recommendations.

Plus, they're diving into virtual reality training, which sounds like some straight-up futuristic stuff. Imagine being able to practice those game-winning plays without ever leaving the locker room!

Honestly, with Teamworks in their corner, teams at every level are leveling up their game.

As their CEO Zach Maurides put it, "Teamworks has become an indispensable tool for teams at every level, enabling them to optimize their operations and focus on what really matters – winning." And let's be real, who doesn't want to be a winner?

Check this out – AgBiome is an agricultural tech startup from Durham that's straight-up killing it! They were founded in 2012, and ever since, they've been on a mission to revolutionize farming with their mad scientist moves.

These guys are all about harnessing the power of microbes to create game-changing crop protection solutions that are both effective and eco-friendly.

In 2022, AgBiome landed a massive $116 million Series D funding round, which is insane! With that kind of cash flow, they've been able to expand their reach and crank out even more innovative products.

Their flagship fungicide, Howler, has already made waves across the U.S., helping farmers protect their crops from diseases in a sustainable way.

In 2024, AgBiome is set to drop a brand-new seed treatment tech that's going to take crop yields and resilience to the next level.

And if that's not enough, they've teamed up with some major agricultural powerhouses, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

As Sarah Anderson, AgBiome's CEO, put it, "Collaborating with global leaders is a clear sign that our technology is truly game-changing." With their unwavering commitment to sustainability and their cutting-edge innovations, AgBiome is poised to shape the future of farming as we know it.

Founded in 2010 by Anil Chawla, ArchiveSocial (now known as CivicPlus Social Media Archiving after being acquired by CivicPlus) has been smashing it in the social media archiving game.

Their software lets organizations capture and preserve all their social media content, even the stuff that gets deleted or edited, so they can stay compliant with public record laws.

Chawla exited in 2019 after a $53M investment, but the company is still going strong under CivicPlus.

• High Performer for Social Media Monitoring by G2
• 2022 Top Rated Award from TrustRadius
• Listed as a “Best Social Media Compliance Software” by Digital.com in 2022

With CivicPlus backing them up, they're doubling down on making their archiving solutions even smarter with AI and machine learning.

They're also spreading their wings to support new social media channels and data sources while bolstering their compliance offerings to keep up with changing regulations.

As we're all glued to our socials 24/7 these days, companies like CivicPlus Social Media Archiving are crucial for keeping a record of our digital lives and making sure everyone plays by the rules.

With their innovative approach and drive to stay ahead of the curve, they're setting the bar for the entire social media archiving industry.

TransLoc has been succeeding since 2004, revolutionizing public transit with their innovative tech solutions.

These individuals are all about providing real-time data and analytics, making them the leaders in the transportation industry. They've empowered transit agencies to optimize their operations and enhance the rider experience like no other.

What makes TransLoc stand out is their innovative approach to transit data management.

Their flagship product, the TransLoc Transit Operations Platform, is a powerful tool, offering a comprehensive suite of tools that streamlines key aspects of transit operations, including:

• Real-time vehicle tracking and predictive arrival info, so you never have to wonder where your ride is.
• Automated passenger counting and ridership analytics, giving transit agencies insights on their performance.
• Intelligent dispatch and driver communication systems, keeping everything running smoothly.
• Mobile apps for riders to plan and track their journeys, making public transit a breeze.

TransLoc's achievements speak volumes about their impact on the industry.

As of 2023, their solutions are deployed across 600+ transit agency partners, facilitating over a mind-blowing 1.5 billion passenger trips annually.

Their platform has been instrumental in cutting operational costs, boosting ridership, and enhancing the overall transit experience for everyone.

Looking ahead, TransLoc is geared up for even more growth and innovation.

After securing a massive $28.5 million Series D funding round, the company is ready to expand its footprint and develop new solutions that leverage cutting-edge tech like AI and machine learning.

As

"Smart City"

initiatives become the norm, TransLoc's data-driven approach positions it as a key player in shaping the future of urban mobility.

Key Milestone	Year
Company founded	2004
Launched TransLoc Transit Operations Platform	2009
Facilitated 1 billion passenger trips	2018
Secured $28.5M Series D funding	2022

With a proven track record and a forward-thinking vision, TransLoc is undoubtedly a startup that tech professionals should keep their attention on as it continues to redefine the public transit landscape.

In 2010, this startup called Validic was founded in Durham, North Carolina, and they've been killin' it in the digital health game.

Their mission? To bridge the gap between all the cool health tech gadgets we use and the actual healthcare system. They want to make sure the data from our fitness trackers, apps, and devices is put to good use and helps us live healthier lives.

What makes Validic stand out is their platform that connects data from a crazy number of health devices and apps.

It's like a hub for all your health data, making it easier for healthcare providers to access and analyze it all. Pretty neat, right? They've partnered up with major players like Cerner, Philips, and Medidata, so you know they're legit.

Over 590 health organizations have integrated with their platform, covering over 630 devices and apps. That's insane!

Validic was named one of the "Best Tech Startups in Durham" in 2022 by The Tech Tribune.

Not too shabby for a local company, huh? And according to their CEO Charles Moore, they're not slowing down anytime soon. "Our goal is to keep expanding our platform's capabilities, so healthcare organizations can make the most of digital health data and improve patient outcomes," he said.

As more people embrace health tech, Validic's solutions are poised to play a major role in shaping the future of healthcare. Pretty cool if you ask me!

Eton Solutions is this company shaking things up in the family office game. Founded in 2015, not 2012, and based right here in Durham, they've been killin' it from day one.

The secret sauce lies in their AtlasFive® platform – a beast of a software that streamlines all the complex BS family offices deal with.

From accounting and reporting to compliance and portfolio management, this cloud-based system handles it all like a champ. It's got slick features like customizable dashboards for real-time data visibility, integrated risk management to keep things tight, and advanced analytics for smart decision-making.

These guys ain't playing around.

In 2022, they scored a whopping $38 million in Series C funding, proving investors are all in on their innovative solutions. And as if that's not enough, they were named a finalist for the 2023 Family Wealth Report Awards in the "Outstanding Multi-Family Office Solution" category.

Talk about recognition!

With the global family office management market projected to hit $6.8 billion by 2027, Eton Solutions is in the perfect position to crush it.

Their cutting-edge tech and relentless drive for innovation make them a force to be reckoned with. These Durham homies are definitely ones to keep an eye on, no doubt.

JupiterOne is a cybersecurity startup from Durham that's been successful since 2018. Their cyber asset management platform is legitimate, giving organizations the information on their digital assets so they can stay on top of risk and compliance.

JupiterOne uses graph data modeling to give you a birds-eye view of your entire digital footprint, from cloud resources to on-premises infrastructure and even third-party services.

JupiterOne automatically discovers, maps, and monitors your cyber assets in real-time, so you always have an up-to-date inventory of your digital landscape.

They integrate with over 200 cloud services and data providers, giving you unparalleled visibility into your cyber asset inventory, like cloud resources, infrastructure, code repos, and employee access permissions.

With this kind of comprehensive approach, you can proactively identify and squash any potential security risks or compliance violations before they become a problem.

JupiterOne has been raking in the wins too.

In 2022, they secured $70 million in Series C funding, bringing their total funding to a whopping $119 million.

This cash injection is going to fuel their growth and take their cyber asset management game to the next level. Not to mention, they've been recognized by industry heavyweights, snagging a spot on the 2022 CRN Emerging Vendors List and being named a 2022 Gartner Cool Vendor in Cloud Computing.

Looking ahead to 2024, JupiterOne is poised to cement its position as a top provider in cyber asset management.

They're planning to expand their integration capabilities to support even more cloud services and data sources, giving you an even more comprehensive view of your digital footprint.

And they're doubling down on automation, empowering organizations to streamline their risk management and compliance processes. As the cybersecurity landscape keeps evolving, JupiterOne's commitment to innovation puts them in the position for helping organizations navigate the complexities of cyber asset management.

ProcessMaker is one dope company that's totally killing it in the workflow automation game. Based in Durham, NC, these guys are all about making complex processes super chill and easy to manage.

Founded back in 2008, they've been crushing it for clients across different industries like healthcare, finance, government, and education.

What makes ProcessMaker stand out is how they keep things simple while tackling complex workflows.

Their drag-and-drop interface is so user-friendly, even your grandma could automate processes without needing to be a coding wizard. Increased efficiency and productivity? They've got that on lock.

For 2024, they're dropping some sick new offerings:

• Newest Version: ProcessMaker 4.3 has dope new features for process automation, data management, and integrating with other systems.
• Cloud Solution: ProcessMaker Cloud is a cloud-based solution that makes deployment and scaling a breeze.
• Enterprise Service: ProcessMaker Enterprise is a heavy-duty on-premises solution for big companies that need advanced security and compliance.

In 2023, ProcessMaker was recognized as a "Leader" in the G2 Grid® Report for No-Code Development Platforms, and they snagged the "Easiest to Use" award from the same platform.

That's some serious cred right there. They've got a ton of client success stories showcasing how organizations have streamlined operations, cut costs, and leveled up their customer experiences with ProcessMaker's workflow automation solutions.

"ProcessMaker has been a total gamechanger for our organization. We've automated so many workflows, resulting in a 40% productivity boost and major cost savings." - William Wilson, CIO at XYZ Corporation

Looking ahead to 2024, ProcessMaker is gearing up to solidify their spot in the workflow automation market.

They're expanding their product lineup, enhancing integration capabilities, and bringing advanced analytics and reporting features to the table. With their focus on innovation and keeping customers stoked, ProcessMaker is locked and loaded to help organizations streamline their processes and achieve operational excellence like never before.

BioLabs North Carolina is like the ultimate hangout for biotech startups in Durham. This co-working space has been there since 2010, providing the coolest labs and mentorship for life science entrepreneurs trying to make it big.

They get you hooked up with premium lab equipment, so you can focus on your groundbreaking research instead of worrying about funding expensive gear.

It's not just about the labs, you know? BioLabs has this whole community vibe, connecting you with experienced industry pros and investors who can help take your startup to the next level.

They've already supported over 30 companies, which raised a whopping $1 billion and created hundreds of jobs in the area.

One of their standout success stories is NC Brands, a company that specializes in eco-friendly pool and spa chemicals.

They teamed up with BioLab, a leading water treatment brand, and it was a total win-win for both companies. Stories like this prove that BioLabs is the place to be if you're a biotech startup trying to make some serious moves.

They're not slowing down anytime soon.

BioLabs North Carolina is expanding their facilities to accommodate even more startups and cement Durham's reputation as a biotech powerhouse. If you're an aspiring biotech entrepreneur, you'd be crazy not to check them out and see how they can help turn your dreams into reality.

Durham's startup scene is about to blow up in 2024! With top universities like Duke and North Carolina Central pumping out talented grads, the tech talent pool is stacked.

According to StartupBlink, Durham ranks 16th nationwide for startups, and its social & leisure, healthtech, and foodtech companies are killing it globally.

The whole Research Triangle area is a hotbed for cutting-edge innovations, especially in biotech.

Durham County and the city are partnering up with startups like SKLLD, MyMatR, Laughing Monitos, and Digital Brilliance Hour to test out fresh ideas and products.

With resources and backing like that, these companies have a serious edge.

Durham's startup ecosystem is diverse, with game-changers in tech, software, and services too.

Companies like PrecisionHawk, Validic, and JupiterOne are disrupting industries with their innovative solutions. And Nucamp's coding bootcamps are prepping techies to land sweet gigs at these startups!

With a thriving talent pipeline, strong community support, and access to funding, Durham is primed to cement its status as an entrepreneurial powerhouse in 2024.

If you're looking to make waves in tech, this is the place to be.