Today I wanted to let you all know about a fascinating competition for drone enthusiasts and entrepreneurs interested in starting or growing a drone-based business! GENIUS NY, the world’s largest business accelerator for drone and UAS-based startups, is gearing up for their 3rd annual competition.
GENIUS NY was started in Central New York to fuel the growth of innovative startup businesses in the drone industry. To date, they’ve handed out millions of dollars to exciting, groundbreaking drone businesses around the world.
This year, they’re planning on awarding $1M to the top team and $500K to 4 separate runner-up teams. They’re passionate about helping to grow the drone industry, and some winning teams from years past have turned into some of the most exciting drone-based businesses operating today.
For example, Dropcopter, out of California, is a business that participated in the competition and specializes in using drones for the pollination of apple trees in the agricultural industry.
Fotokite, out of Switzerland, combines aerial and ground-based robotics with flight control algorithms to create a kite-like tethered drone system that can fly fully autonomously for 24 hours.
USPLM, based in Syracuse, provides a collaborative environment to develop, test, deploy, and safely operate a single or a fleet of unmanned aerial systems. You can read more about these and other teams from past competitions on GENIUS NY’s website.
GENIUS NY is funded with $5 million from NYS Empire State Development (ESD) and from contributing sponsors. I’d highly encourage any of our readers interested in starting or growing a drone-based business to check out GENIUS NY. It’s an incredible program providing opportunities to entrepreneurs with a passion for drone and UAS technology.
Here are some details about how to apply:
Visit the application process page to learn more about how to get involved with GENIUS NY. There are numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs in the drone industry. If you have an idea for a business, or if you know someone who is interested in growing a drone-based startup, click this link to visit GENIUS NY’s website and learn more about this incredible program.