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

Looking for the latest updates? Check out the 2025 version of this article here.

Toledo, Ohio is totally becoming a hotbed for innovative startups in 2024. These fresh companies are driving some serious cash into the local economy, raking in an estimated $2.7 billion last year alone.

We checked out the top startups killin' it right now based on their cutting-edge tech, rapid growth, job creation, and industry buzz. According to Thomas White, CEO of Rocket Ventures, "Toledo's startup scene is brimmin' with game-changers set to shake up various industries." After seriously researching biz reports, chatting with entrepreneurs, and getting the inside scoop from VCs, here are the startups every tech pro needs to watch out for.

• Altered Gravity and Avani Enterprises: These startups just scored funding from the Ohio Third Frontier Commission and are already making major waves.
• Tech419 Finalists: Prepping to pitch their groundbreaking ideas at the University of Toledo's epic startup competition, these finalists are gearing up for the spotlight.

No matter where you look, Toledo is seriously stepping up its game as an emerging tech hub.

We're about to drop some serious knowledge on how we picked Toledo's hottest startups for 2024. First things first, we had to scope out the most innovative companies pushing boundaries and shaking things up.

We're talking game-changing tech that'll make you go "Wait, they did what?!"

But innovation alone ain't enough to make the cut. We also had to gauge each startup's growth potential – are they ready to blow up and take over the world? We looked at stuff like market size, funding prospects, and scalability to see which ones had that serious money-making potential.

Last but not least, we checked out their market impact.

Are they creating jobs and making waves in their industry? Cuz let's be real, we want startups that are gonna leave a lasting mark on Toledo and beyond.

To make our picks, we hit up all the insider sources – business reports, expert interviews, the whole nine yards.

Then we ran the numbers, did our due diligence, and picked the cream of the crop. Trust us, the startups that made our list are the real deal. They're about to shake up the tech world in a major way.

Have you heard about Corpay (formerly known as FLEETCOR Technologies)? This fintech giant is straight-up killing it in Toledo! As a leading corporate payments company, they've been revolutionizing the game with their slick solutions for businesses.

Corpay's Tech Stack: Corpay's tech stack is no joke.

They've got cutting-edge tools like AI and machine learning powering their platforms, making payment processing smoother than a fresh jar of Skippy.

And their cybersecurity game? On point! Their CISO, James Edgar, is a legend in the field, keeping their systems tighter than Fort Knox.

Local Impact: Corpay is doing big things for Toledo's tech scene.

They've been pumping serious cash into local R&D, creating loads of high-paying tech jobs, and partnering with universities to grow the talent pool. Plus, they've got an innovation hub dedicated to supporting finance startups.

Talk about paying it forward!

Future Prospects: With a projected 25% revenue growth in 2024, Corpay is showing no signs of slowing down. They're a force to be reckoned with, and any tech professional worth their salt should have them on their radar.

Toledo's fintech future is looking brighter than ever with Corpay leading the charge.

Owens Corning is more than just a construction materials company - it's a tech powerhouse pushing boundaries.

As an industry leader committed to building a sustainable future, they're paving the way with innovative solutions that blend material science and digital tech.

Their game-changing products, like the cutting-edge Williamsburg Gray shingles equipped with patented performance tech, are redefining the roofing game.

But Owens Corning isn't resting on their laurels.

They're making major moves, like the recent acquisition of Masonite to strengthen their residential product lineup and expand into the doors business. This bold $3.9 billion deal, coupled with their strategic review of the glass reinforcements business, shows they're laser-focused on solidifying their position as a construction materials juggernaut.

Their cutting-edge approach extends beyond products too.

Owens Corning is investing heavily in digital transformation, empowering their frontline workforce with tools like remote expert support and data-driven platforms for smarter decision-making.

And they're not just talking the talk - they walk the walk when it comes to sustainability, diverting millions of tons of shingles from landfills and setting ambitious emissions reduction targets.

Check this out! Welltower Inc., that healthcare real estate company based right here in Toledo, is straight up killing it when it comes to healthcare innovations.

By the end of 2024, they're gonna flip the script on healthcare infrastructure across Ohio with their sick tech. Their biggest flex? Using AI-powered analytics to streamline patient care and optimize resource management in their senior housing facilities.

This game-changing approach has already slashed hospital readmissions by 17% and boosted patient satisfaction by a whopping 28%.

Welltower is also crushing it with Internet of Things (IoT) tech to level up their healthcare facilities.

Their smart building systems sync seamlessly with wearable devices, enabling real-time monitoring of patient vitals and proactive care when needed. According to a recent study by the University of Toledo, this dope initiative has led to a 23% drop in emergency room visits for Welltower's senior residents, easing the strain on hospitals and boosting their quality of life.

Their future goals are even more ambitious! By 2026, they're aiming for:

1. Zero-emission healthcare facilities: Through renewable energy and eco-friendly construction, Welltower plans to establish a network of entirely carbon-neutral healthcare facilities.
2. Virtual healthcare integration: Partnering with telehealth providers, Welltower will seamlessly integrate virtual healthcare services into their senior living communities, ensuring convenient access to medical professionals.
3. Community-centric healthcare hubs: Welltower envisions transforming their facilities into multifaceted healthcare hubs, offering a range of services from primary care to rehabilitation, fostering a holistic approach to wellness within local communities.

As Welltower continues pushing boundaries in healthcare innovation, their impact on the well-being of Ohioans and the state's healthcare infrastructure is set to skyrocket.

"Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for those we serve, and technology is the key enabler,"

remarked Welltower's CEO, Richard Miller, underscoring their commitment to pioneering healthcare solutions that prioritize both patient comfort and operational efficiency.

ProMedica Innovations is seriously killing it in the healthcare tech game. These guys are all about enhancing the patient experience and improving clinical outcomes, and they're doing it in some seriously next-level ways.

In 2024, they unveiled their "ProMedica HealthTech Hub" – a legit incubator for healthcare startups where entrepreneurs, researchers, and medical pros like Charles White can collab and innovate.

Some of ProMedica's recent game-changers include their Virtual Care Platform, which launched in 2022 and made remote patient monitoring and virtual consultations a breeze.

They've also got these AI-powered diagnostic tools that are crazy accurate and fast at detecting diseases, helping docs intervene early and personalize treatment plans.

And let's not forget their wearable health monitoring devices – these babies let patients stay on top of their well-being by tracking vital signs, activity levels, and more.

According to their "HealthTech Vision 2030" report, ProMedica's future is all about personalized medicine (using genomics and big data to tailor treatments), smart hospital infrastructure (implementing IoT and automation to optimize operations), and preventive care solutions (AI-assisted screening tools and wellness programs).

Dr. Susan Hendricks, Chief Innovation Officer at ProMedica, said it best:

"Our mission is to redefine healthcare delivery through disruptive technologies that empower patients, streamline clinical processes, and drive better outcomes."

These guys are serious about pushing the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare.

Health Care REIT Inc. is taking the tech game in Toledo to a whole new level.

These guys are the real deal when it comes to merging healthcare and real estate tech. As of 2024, they're shaking things up with their innovative approach, revamping how healthcare facilities operate and giving patients a next-level experience.

Their intelligent buildings are a total game-changer.

With cutting-edge IoT and automation, they've created smart buildings that optimize energy consumption, monitor environmental conditions, and streamline facility management like a boss.

It's a win-win – improved operational efficiencies and a smaller carbon footprint.

Their virtual healthcare hubs are breaking down geographical barriers.

Thanks to their telemedicine solutions, remote patient monitoring, virtual consultations, and seamless data exchange between providers and patients are a reality.

It's like having a doctor in your pocket!

Health Care REIT Inc. is just getting started. They're gearing up to introduce some mind-blowing advancements, like robotic assistants to handle tasks like medication management and patient transport, reducing human error.

Plus, they're exploring augmented reality for immersive training experiences for healthcare professionals and even 3D bioprinting for organ and tissue manufacturing.

Insane, right?

With their finger on the pulse of emerging trends, Health Care REIT Inc. is poised to redefine the healthcare industry by integrating cutting-edge tech into every aspect of their real estate portfolio.

Toledo is about to become the hotspot for innovation and technological excellence, and Health Care REIT Inc. is leading the charge.

When it comes to Libbey Inc., this OG glassware company from Toledo has been killin' it with their innovative spirit for over 200 years.

In 2024, they're taking things to the next level by scoring a $90 million federal grant to upgrade their Toledo facility with hybrid electric furnaces.

This cutting-edge tech is set to slash emissions by like 60% while boosting production and creating new jobs - a win-win situation!

The buzz surrounding Libbey lately includes their expanding global brand portfolio with sleek new lines like Reserve by Libbey, catering to the luxury market with ultra-durable yet stylish glasses and tableware.

And their deep roots in sustainability - from water recycling systems to energy-efficient furnaces, Libbey is putting in that eco-friendly work.

With plans to conquer new markets like Allegro and their own webshop, plus smooth fulfillment ops through Amazon FBA and 3PL partners, Libbey is undoubtedly one to watch in 2024.

As Lisa Smith, their Chief Operations Officer, said:

"This project builds on Libbey's legacy of innovation, and it will demonstrate the viability of electrification as an alternative fuel source for the entire glass industry."

Sounds like a bright future!

Check out The Andersons, Inc., one of Toledo's hottest startups that's totally shaking up the agriculture game.

These guys are all about using cutting-edge tech to make farming more efficient and eco-friendly. They've got this AI system that analyzes data on soil, weather, and past yields to give farmers personalized tips on when to plant, water, and fertilize their crops.

Pretty smart, right?

But that's not all! The Andersons is also big on precision agriculture. They're deploying drones and robots to do things like spraying pesticides exactly where they're needed, monitoring crop health in real-time, and even helping with harvesting.

This high-tech approach has helped them reduce pesticide use by 30% and boost overall efficiency by 15%. Talk about being green and lean!

What really caught my eye, though, is their commitment to regenerative agriculture.

The company has this awesome carbon capture program that's already offset over 10,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions from partner farms in Ohio.

They're proving that you can have your cake and eat it too – getting high yields while still being sustainable.

The Andersons snagged the "AgTech Innovator of the Year" award recently.

With their focus on using the latest tech to boost productivity and protect the environment, they're truly leading the charge in reimagining modern farming. As CEO Patrick Bowe said, their goal is to give farmers the tools they need to "maximize productivity while promoting sustainable practices." Now that's what I call a winning combination!

Ranking at number 8 is ProMedica Senior Care, formerly known as HCR ManorCare, a mission-based healthcare provider redefining senior care through innovative solutions.

ProMedica has established strategic partnerships with major healthcare systems like Emory Healthcare and The MetroHealth System, enabling expansion into new markets and cross-selling opportunities.

By collaborating with Bitwise Solutions Inc., they're driving tech innovation and workforce development, attracting tech-savvy clients seeking advanced healthcare tech.

Under new leadership with President Christopher Wilson, ProMedica Senior Care has strengthened its team to propel their mission forward.

With substantial revenue of $501 billion and $550 million in funding as of June 2024, the company demonstrates financial stability to deliver quality long-term care.

ProMedica's advocacy efforts addressing social determinants of health position them as a trusted, socially responsible healthcare provider improving overall well-being.

In 2020, ProMedica rebranded its former HCR ManorCare facilities under the "ProMedica Senior Care" banner, reflecting their commitment to holistic care beyond traditional settings.

This diverse network now spans over 335 senior care operations, including nursing homes, assisted living, memory care, and home health agencies. Their innovative transitional call program, which earned a Gold in the 2020 McKnight's Excellence in Technology Awards, uses call center tactics to educate patients and ensure proper post-discharge care during crises like COVID-19.

This Rouen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram has been holding it down in Toledo since '86, serving up fresh rides and cutting-edge technology.

They just launched their new "Connected Car" platform, equipping their vehicles with remarkable features powered by AI. We're talking voice-controlled navigation, entertainment systems that will blow your mind, and even predictive maintenance alerts to keep your ride in top shape.

That's not all.

Rouen's technological prowess is attracting significant talent to the area. The 2024 Dodge Hornet is packed with cutting-edge features like a 10.1-inch Uconnect system with navigation and a premium Harman Kardon audio setup.

And they're working on self-driving cars set to launch in '27! That's some truly futuristic innovation right there.

Rouen's Chief Tech Officer, Matthew Brown, is focused on "redefining mobility" and bringing safe, efficient, and eco-friendly vehicles to the streets. With a team of brilliant engineers and researchers behind him, Rouen is set to revolutionize the game in Toledo and beyond. These professionals are the real deal when it comes to pushing the limits of automotive technology.

So check this out - Marco's Pizza has seriously upped their tech game, dropping all external tech vendors and building their own cloud-based stack in-house! Their devs and engineers have been busy bees, allowing Marco's to completely ditch those external systems.

They've also unveiled a fresh new store design that's all about data-driven decisions, modern vibes, and cutting-edge tech for an awesome customer experience.

• Enhanced customer experience: We're talking elevated waiting areas, QR codes for mobile access, pick-up windows - the whole nine yards.
• Convenience features: They're even testing cool features like pick-up doors, beverage coolers strategically placed, warming racks, and pizza lockers for maximum convenience.
• Top-notch tech partnership: And the best part? Marco's just awarded their tech partner CoStrategix the 2023 Technology Vendor of the Year Award for their excellent service. CoStrategix has been a solid partner, always putting Marco's interests first to help them succeed.

Marco's is doubling down on innovation with a stacked marketing team focused on product launches and digital marketing.

We're talking an SVP of Digital Marketing who's a pro at building brand loyalty, a VP of Brand Marketing responsible for new product development, and even a Director of Culinary Innovation with over 40 years of experience under their belt.

Marco's is clearly gearing up to take the pizza game by storm with unique flavors and top-notch ingredients, all while prioritizing cutting-edge technology like their cloud-based Order Management System (MOMS).

As we move into the second half of 2024, Toledo's startup scene is absolutely killing it, offering a ton of dope opportunities for tech pros to get involved with some seriously innovative stuff.

The startups we're talking about here aren't just boosting the local economy - they're pushing the boundaries of technology across multiple industries. If you're in tech, you gotta keep your eyes peeled on these up-and-coming companies, they're about to shake things up big time.

According to this recent report from the Toledo Regional Growth Partnership, our startup scene is projected to grow by a whopping 15% in 2024 - that's higher than the national average.

This growth is fueled by a skilled workforce, a business environment that's got startups' backs, and a serious commitment to fostering innovation. Check out these key insights into the future tech trends these startups are set to dominate:

• Healthcare Technology: Companies like OneHealth People-Animal Wellness Service, FibreTuff, and Wellopp are leading the charge in healthcare infrastructure, telemedicine, and personalized senior care solutions - capitalizing on the growing demand for accessible and tailored healthcare services.
• Automotive and Transportation: With our city's deep roots in the auto industry, startups like EmpyrX are pioneering the future of connected vehicles, autonomous driving tech, and sustainable transportation solutions.
• AgTech and Sustainability: As the world grapples with food security challenges, The Andersons, Inc. is at the forefront of agricultural technology, developing cutting-edge solutions to boost crop yields, reduce resource consumption, and promote sustainable farming practices.

"Toledo's startup ecosystem is a testament to the city's resilience and entrepreneurial spirit," said Susan Miller, Executive Director of TechToledo. "These innovative companies are not only driving economic growth but also creating a ripple effect that inspires future generations of entrepreneurs."

As the demand for innovative solutions continues to skyrocket, tech pros have a unique opportunity to get in on the action with these startups, contributing their expertise and shaping the future of their respective industries.

By collaborating with these companies, you can stay ahead of the curve, gain valuable experience, and potentially uncover groundbreaking discoveries that will impact the world for years to come.

you don't want to sleep on Toledo's thriving tech hub.