PITTSBURGH DRAFTS INNOVATION
Highlighting
startups building tough tech
A first-of-its-kind showcase of 10 breakthrough companies from innovation works and pittsburgh technology council network
250+
robotics, AI, and autonomy companies
across 18 industries call PITTSBURGH HOME.
Inside (the) Draft
pittsburgh is a global innovation hub, building companies that change everything
From robotics and AI to healthcare and advanced manufacturing, Pittsburgh has become one of the few places in the world where breakthrough technologies move from research to real-world impact—fast.
Powered by world-class universities, a dense network of startups, and deep industry partnerships, the region is producing companies redefine entire industries. As the NFL Draft comes to town, take a look at just some of the founders building what’s next.
- 250+ robotics, AI, and autonomy companies operating across 18 industries (Pittsburgh Robotics Network)
- #1 ranked AI program in the U.S. at Carnegie Mellon University (U.S. News & World Report)
- $1.5B+ in follow-on capital driven by life sciences investment (Pittsburgh Life Sciences Greenhouse)
IW FOUNDED
1999
Innovation Works launches as Western PA's most active seed-stage investor — built on the belief that Pittsburgh's engineers, researchers, and founders were ready to build companies that could change the world.
PGH RISES
2007
Carnegie Mellon and Pitt spin out robotics, AI, and life sciences startups at a pace that turns national heads. IW backs the boldest of them.
ECOSYSTEM GROWS
2012
Over 100 IW portfolio companies are now operating in Pittsburgh. Founders begin mentoring the next wave. The flywheel starts spinning.
NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT
2017
Pittsburgh earns recognition as one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in the US. IW-backed companies attract Series A and B rounds from coastal investors.
RESILIENCE
2021
Through disruption, IW portfolio companies pivot, adapt, and accelerate. Remote-first tools, healthcare tech, and logistics companies built here prove Pittsburgh's durability.
THE DRAFT
2026
Innovation Works and the Pittsburgh Technology Council select the 10 most compelling companies in the IW ecosystem — and put them on the biggest stage Pittsburgh innovation has ever seen.
reel
here
Scouting Pittsburgh
Some call us the "Robotics Capital".
Pittsburgh isn’t just using AI—it helped invent it.
This is where research meets builders.
Round One PICKS
CLASS OF 2026
Journey Robotics
Push Past Pack Design in New Style delivers bold, modern packaging concepts that redefine visuals, elevate branding, and introduce fresh creative energy.
Diamond Kinetics
Diamond Kinetics turns real-time performance data into measurable improvement for baseball athletes using AI-powered technology.
founder quotes
A big thank you to the Brand Apart team for their excellent work on the Robert rebrand. We’re delighted to have you as an integral part of the process.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Brand Apart team for their best contribution to the Robert rebrand. Having you as part of the In Card team is truly valued. We’re excited for what’s ahead. We will work with them soon
This rebranding journey wouldn’t have been the same without the outstanding contribution of the Brand Apart team. Your strategic thinking
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Brand Apart team for their exceptional creativity and dedication throughout the rebranding process. Your expertise played a key role
SCOUTED. Tallied. DRAFTED.
What company would you "draft" for Pittsburgh's tech leaders? Share your selection in the People's Pick Round 2 Draft.
Step 01
NOMINATIONS OPEN
NOMINATIONS OPEN
Anyone can nominate a standout company building a technology startup in the greater Pittsburgh region.
Step 02
SUBMIT YOUR VOTE
SELECTION COMMITTEE
Cast your vote for the company you believe should be the People's Pick. One vote per person.
Step 03
DRAFT DAY REVEAL
THE DAY OF THE DRAFT
The People's Picks are announced on LinkedIn following the official NFL Draft