The Q2 2025 Spark100 rolls on—and today, we’re heading to the heartland.
The Midwest may not always make the loudest noise, but its startup scene is louder than ever. This region is home to scrappy builders, deep tech thinkers, and rising founders solving real problems in real industries—from AI-powered logistics to digital health, infrastructure, and beyond.
Presented by DuploCloud and SaaS Brass, the Spark100 honors early-stage startups that are scaling fast and setting the tone for what’s next. These companies represent the strength of Midwestern ingenuity: practical, bold, and built to last.
This third batch of 25 reflects the momentum that’s growing across cities like Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis, and beyond. They’re shaping smarter systems, modernizing overlooked markets, and proving that you don’t need to be coastal to be cutting-edge.
Meet the Midwest honorees of Q2 2025—and don’t miss the final regional reveal coming this Thursday.
Learn more about the Spark100 and see the entire list of honorees at duplocloud.com/spark100.
Q2 2025 | Spark100 Honorees
Tiga Labs
In the bustling heart of Washington D.C., Tiga Labs embarked on a bold quest to revolutionize the arduous landscape of B2B sales. Realizing the persistent struggle sales teams faced in closing deals efficiently, they turned to the cutting-edge powers of generative AI. Facing early hurdles of navigating a nascent technology and market skepticism, Tiga Labs decisively pivoted towards pioneering solutions, refining their product through relentless iteration. Today, their innovative platform empowers B2B teams, transforming traditional sales processes into streamlined, intelligent interactions. Distinctively blending AI mastery with practical innovation, Tiga Labs emerges as a standout force, reshaping the essence of business selling.
Learn more at https://www.tiga.ai/
Beltways
Transportation inefficiencies and the disconnect between cities and commuters have long plagued urban mobility. Beltways, founded with a clear vision, addresses this critical problem by providing streamlined, flexible transit solutions that seamlessly integrate diverse commuting options. Their innovative approach has rapidly gained recognition, winning awards like the OhioXcelerate competition and being featured prominently in local startup showcases. Beltways’ early achievements and their transformative impact on urban transportation underscore their commitment to improving daily travel experiences, rightfully earning them a place in the Spark100.
Learn more at https://www.beltways.com/
Pulse Charter Connect
In the urgent battle against time, Pulse Charter Connect emerged determined to solve a critical challenge: getting life-saving organs swiftly to those awaiting transplants. From its roots in Chicago, the startup navigated early logistical hurdles, turning challenges into pivotal insights that refined their operations. Their innovative logistics service became a lifeline, seamlessly connecting healthcare providers and ensuring organs reached their destinations quickly and safely. With strategic clarity gained through each trial, Pulse Charter Connect stands remarkable, transforming healthcare logistics by delivering hope and precious second chances, setting an inspiring standard in a field where every second counts.
Learn more at https://pulsecharterconnect.com
Alpaca
Schools often struggle to effectively support and recognize teachers, leaving educators feeling undervalued and disconnected. Alpaca, founded with empathy at its core, brilliantly addresses this gap by providing parents and school leaders with easy, impactful tools—from tailored resources and monthly teacher care packages to insightful Pulse Surveys that guide support strategies. The results have been transformational; principals like Jennifer Miller from Everton R-III School District highlight significant improvements in staff morale and community engagement. Alpaca’s empathetic and practical approach to celebrating educators has earned them a rightful place in the Spark100, spotlighting their vital role in reshaping school culture.
Learn more at https://www.alpacapacks.com
Vinyl Equity
Publicly traded companies often grapple with outdated and cumbersome transfer agency processes, leading to inefficiencies and costly errors. Vinyl Equity, founded to modernize this critical aspect of financial services, introduces a sleek, cloud-based infrastructure leveraging business process automation (BPA). Their innovative fintech platform streamlines interactions between issuers, shareholders, and service providers, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency. Vinyl Equity’s forward-thinking approach and tangible improvements in transfer agency operations underscore their early traction. Their commitment to reshaping the industry with clarity and effectiveness rightly earns them recognition in the Spark100.
Learn more at https://www.vinylequity.com
ClearCOGS
When ClearCOGS embarked on their quest, they faced the great challenge of restaurant inefficiencies and razor-thin margins. Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics, they crafted a visionary SaaS platform—transforming not only operational processes but the profitability prospects for restaurants nationwide. Customers like Goop Kitchen marveled at an overnight 2% profit boost, revealing ClearCOGS’ transformative potential. With intuitive, “dummy-proofed” insights praised by clients Steve Honner from Jimmy John’s, ClearCOGS stands tall as a beacon for eateries seeking streamlined operations, empowered managers, and sustainable growth. Their remarkable journey underscores innovation meeting practicality in the bustling world of hospitality.
Learn more at https://www.clearcogs.com
Goose
Running a pet care business often comes with mountains of paperwork, outdated booking systems, and limited time for actual pet care. Goose, founded with empathy and vision, addresses these pain points head-on, offering a modern operating system that transforms operational chaos into streamlined simplicity. Leveraging advanced SaaS and thoughtful software engineering, Goose enables business owners like Deb Ward and Kevin DeTrude to shift their focus back to the pets, dramatically enhancing client satisfaction and operational efficiency. Goose’s early success in redefining pet care management earns them a deserved spot on the Spark100 list, celebrating visionaries who genuinely improve daily lives.
Learn more at https://www.goose.pet
ElectronX
Facing the turbulent tides of electricity price volatility, ElectronX embarked on a quest to illuminate a clearer path toward sustainable energy investment. From their Chicago headquarters, the startup tackled the challenge head-on, crafting an innovative electricity exchange designed to stabilize short-term pricing fluctuations. This breakthrough not only empowered financial clarity for investors but also fueled significant growth in renewable energy projects. Today, ElectronX stands distinguished in the fintech landscape, uniquely bridging financial services and sustainability, illuminating a brighter, cleaner future with every transaction.
Learn more at https://electronx.com
Showdrop
Consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands have long faced challenges executing impactful sampling campaigns at scale, often hindered by inefficiencies and limited insights. Showdrop, founded to address precisely this gap, empowers CPG companies by streamlining sampling through advanced analytics and targeted market research. Their innovative platform integrates seamlessly with existing brand marketing strategies and information technology systems, offering brands unprecedented clarity and control over campaign performance. Showdrop’s effective, scalable approach and commitment to concrete results have quickly positioned them as industry leaders—earning clear recognition and their rightful place in this iteration of the Spark100.
Learn more at https://www.showdrop.com/
Cargado
Cross-border logistics has long been burdened with inefficiencies like slow brokerage connections and operational complexities. Cargado addresses these challenges head-on with a transformative network of freight services, allowing carriers to instantly connect with vetted brokerages. Customers have shared impactful experiences, like Mauricio G. of TMG International, who noted that connections previously taking months are now instantaneous. Brokers like Ryan Parke from ODW Logistics have significantly expanded their transportation reach into Canada and Mexico. This practical innovation and tangible impact have earned Cargado a proudly deserved place in the Spark100, celebrating their meaningful strides in redefining cross-border logistics.
Learn more at https://cargado.com
Gem Health
Sleep apnea care often feels disjointed and overwhelming, leaving many patients lost in a complicated healthcare maze. Recognizing this frustration, Gem Health has stepped forward with a refreshingly simple and guided approach to managing sleep apnea. Led by founders passionate about patient care, Gem Health provides an end-to-end virtual service, from easy at-home testing to personalized coaching and treatment. By streamlining specialty healthcare into clear, manageable steps, they’ve quickly resonated with patients seeking clarity and convenience. Gem Health’s thoughtful innovation in healthcare has earned them deserved recognition in this iteration of the Spark100.
Learn more at https://www.gem.health
Cognida.ai
Companies often grapple with inefficiencies from repetitive, non-value-added tasks that drain resources and stifle innovation. Cognida.ai, spearheaded by a visionary team, addresses this critical issue by tailoring artificial intelligence and analytics solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing systems. Their innovative approach has empowered global enterprises across finance, technology, and healthcare sectors, significantly improving operational efficiency and revealing previously inaccessible insights. Cognida.ai’s proven outcomes and dedication to long-term client success underscore their early impact, earning them deserved recognition as a standout innovator in the Spark100.
Learn more at https://cognida.ai/
Xaba
In the bustling heart of Toronto, Xaba embarked on a journey to transform industrial operations saddled with inefficiencies and manual complexities. They recognized the challenge industries faced—integrating precise robotics with adaptable artificial intelligence. By pioneering an AI-driven control system, Xaba dramatically reshaped how machinery interacted and learned, making processes intuitive and efficient. Their innovative solutions, like PLCfy and xCognition, became the turning point, propelling industrial automation into a new era. Today, Xaba stands distinctively in its domain, not just for their technological prowess but for their relentless dedication to redefining intelligent industrial operations.
Learn more at https://www.xaba.ai/
Solis Agrosciences
In the heartland of agriculture innovation, Solis Agrosciences embarked on a journey to revolutionize crop development. Facing initial hurdles of complex gene editing and precise plant transformation, their team transformed these challenges into breakthroughs, crafting a unique Plant Pipeline as a Service. With dedication reminiscent of an in-house team, they tailored their offerings to meet the dynamic needs of startups. Today, Solis stands as a trusted ally, praised by industry leaders for their outstanding scientific results and deep understanding of client needs—reshaping the future of agriculture by unlocking unprecedented plant traits and efficiencies.
Learn more at https://solisagrosciences.com
Crogl
In a realm overwhelmed by ceaseless security alerts, Crogl emerged to tame the chaos. Fueled by the mission to alleviate alert fatigue for businesses, the company bravely ventured through initial complexities, harnessing technology to investigate thousands of daily notifications precisely aligned with organizational workflows. This meticulous approach transformed threat monitoring from daunting noise into actionable clarity. As Crogl evolved, their breakthrough in automating alert investigation empowered countless teams, turning overwhelming volume into strategic advantage. Today, standing out with their focused dedication and methodical precision, Crogl continues guiding organizations confidently to security and operational excellence.
Learn more at https://www.crogl.com/
CodeBuddy
Developers and businesses often face daunting timelines, costly inefficiencies, and steep learning curves when scaling software projects. Devon Seacrest, founder of CodeBuddy, recognized these barriers firsthand and built a solution designed for speed and simplicity. Through a unique mixture of free community resources and tailored subscription models, CodeBuddy accelerates development from MVP to market-ready products in weeks, not months. With endorsements from industry leaders, it has already empowered businesses to secure major contracts and scale efficiently. This empathic and impactful approach to software development has rightfully earned CodeBuddy recognition in the Spark100.
Learn more at https://www.codebuddy.com
Fleet Defender
In the bustling heartland of Omaha, Fleet Defender embarked on a crucial quest: safeguarding vehicles from cyber threats. Amidst an era where fleet vulnerabilities soared, Fleet Defender recognized an urgent need for real-time security vigilance. Pivoting their expertise towards a proactive, AI-driven solution, they offered fleet managers a vigilant guardian—monitoring, detecting, and swiftly alerting potential cyber threats and maintenance concerns. Esteemed leaders like Werner Enterprises championed their innovation, underscoring its vital role in operational safety and efficiency. Fleet Defender’s journey isn’t just about cybersecurity; it’s a testament to proactive protection, setting them distinctly apart in fleet management.
Learn more at https://fleetdefender.com
Tusk
E-Commerce businesses often grapple with inefficient shipping logistics, resulting in delayed deliveries and escalating costs. Tusk, founded to tackle these operational barriers, provides seamless eCommerce, shipping, and logistics solutions, granting businesses immediate access to broader, reliable coverage. With clients like Good Buy Gear praising their punctuality and cost-efficiency, and Unicorn Auctions noting substantial savings compared to FedEx, Tusk has already demonstrated significant impact in the logistics sector. Their innovative approach and measurable results underscore why Tusk is celebrated in Spark100 as a promising pioneer in optimizing eCommerce logistics.
Learn more at https://www.tusklogistics.com
Entegrata
Legal firms often grapple with fragmented data environments, impeding their ability to make informed, timely decisions. Addressing this critical challenge, Entegrata, founded by visionary leaders, offers a secure and centralized data lakehouse solution specifically tailored for legal entities. Their innovative platform allows firms to seamlessly integrate and harness complex data, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. Prominent clients like Pillsbury have embraced Entegrata, noting substantial improvements in their data-driven journeys. Entegrata’s meaningful impact and strategic contributions to the legal industry underscore their recognition in the prestigious Spark100.
Learn more at https://www.entegrata.com/
Luster
In the bustling sales landscape, Luster emerged from Indianapolis with a clear quest: to transform sales enablement through powerful AI-driven software. Early on, the startup navigated the turbulent waters of market recognition, focusing relentlessly on expanding its customer base and solidifying a robust brand identity. Fueled by seed funding and unwavering determination, Luster carved its niche by crafting intuitive solutions that empower sales teams to thrive. Today, what sets Luster apart isn’t just groundbreaking technology—it’s their resilient journey from humble beginnings to becoming an indispensable ally for organizations seeking to revolutionize their sales processes.
Learn more at https://www.luster.ai/
Spendr
Setting out to simplify the cannabis payment landscape, Spendr faced the daunting challenge of addressing cash-heavy transactions burdened by inconvenient ATM fees and awkward rounding errors. Through a pivotal insight—connecting directly to users’ bank accounts and enhancing convenience—Spendr transformed the dispensary experience, allowing swift, seamless payments coupled with enticing rewards. Users herald it as “perfect” and “incredibly easy,” while dispensaries report upticks of 27% more spending per customer. Based in Cincinnati and fueled by recent seed funding, Spendr stands out by removing payment friction, empowering customers and businesses alike with effortless, secure transactions.
Learn more at https://www.spendr.com
UrSpayce
UrSpayce set out on an ambitious journey to redefine global workplaces through AI-powered SaaS solutions. Initially challenged by traditional inefficiencies in workplace management, the Chicago-based startup boldly embraced technology to break these barriers. Navigating early hurdles, UrSpayce uncovered pivotal insights that transformed their approach, empowering organizations worldwide to streamline operations and enhance productivity. Their breakthrough AI-driven platform marked a turning point, resonating with enterprises seeking innovation and efficiency. Today, standing distinctively in the crowded enterprise software landscape, UrSpayce continues its mission, enabling workplaces globally with solutions that not only optimize, but inspire transformative change.
Learn more at https://urspayce.com
HomeTeam Live
In the heart of Regina, Saskatchewan, HomeTeam Live embarked on a journey fueled by a passion for local sports and a simple, yet profound, challenge—connecting fans with hometown games from anywhere. Tackling the limitations of traditional broadcasting, they envisioned an intuitive app enabling seamless streaming of local matches. Through relentless innovation, overcoming technical and geographical barriers, HomeTeam Live achieved a pivotal breakthrough, empowering communities to cheer together, even miles apart. Standing out by bridging hometown spirit with digital convenience, their journey continues, redefining the fan experience and granting each community the spotlight it deserves.
Learn more at https://www.hometeamlive.com/
Nexus Bedside
Healthcare facilities often grapple with critical challenges such as medication verification errors, care coordination gaps, and limited staff support. Nexus Bedside, envisioned by healthcare innovators, directly addresses these issues through their pioneering tech-enabled clinical care solutions. By seamlessly integrating virtual care tools into patient rooms, Nexus provides essential remote assistance and enhances patient safety and nurse productivity. Their innovative model, praised by institutions like Boston Children’s Hospital and UH, demonstrates measurable improvements in healthcare outcomes and efficiency. Nexus Bedside’s transformative impact on healthcare delivery earns them their deserved recognition in this iteration of the Spark100.
Learn more at https://nexus-rn.com/
Wirespeed
In a landscape fraught with complex threats, Wirespeed embarked on a mission to untangle the intricate web of cybersecurity for businesses of all sizes. From their roots in St. Louis, they navigated early challenges by focusing on clarity and ease of use, democratizing network security for enterprises that previously considered it daunting. Their journey was defined not by grand pivots but by a steady, purposeful evolution, steadily breaking down barriers that hindered effective security management. Today, Wirespeed stands out as a beacon of simplicity and reliability, empowering businesses to confidently face digital threats head-on.
Learn more at https://wirespeed.co/
ElectroKare
ElectroKare began its quest to transform health awareness, confronting the invisible barriers of wellness monitoring. Initially carving a path in biotechnology research, they quickly realized their true calling lay in connecting individuals directly with their health data. ElectroKare’s innovative fitness software now seamlessly syncs with smartwatches, enabling real-time ECG and electrolyte monitoring. Customers like athletes Alessandria K. and Carter D. praise its intuitive design and transformative insights, empowering healthier lifestyle changes. Distinctively combining biotech precision with user-centric technology, ElectroKare stands as a beacon for proactive health management, redefining how we understand well-being.
Learn more at https://electrokare.com/
Graici
Graici began its journey with a bold mission—to harness AI in transforming the complexities of health, education, and social services. Early on, they faced the challenge of simplifying critical systems notoriously difficult for everyday people to navigate. Through key breakthroughs with their Adaptive Engagement Technology, Graici made essential services accessible, fostering community and eliminating inefficiencies. Inspiring testimonials from team members like Jodi Pierre-Louis highlight their transformative impact, emphasizing Graici’s dedication to inclusive prosperity. What sets Graici apart is their genuine, people-focused approach, pioneering AI solutions that serve not just industries, but individuals at the most critical moments of their lives.
Learn more at https://graici.com/
Disclaimer:
The Spark100 recognition program is proudly sponsored by DuploCloud and SaaS Brass. As corporate sponsors, our goal is to celebrate and spotlight the achievements of innovative SaaS startups and their contributions to the tech ecosystem. While the Spark100 is an initiative of DuploCloud and SaaS Brass, the companies selected for recognition were chosen solely based on their recent funding milestones and industry impact.
About DuploCloud
DuploCloud is a no-code/low-code DevOps automation platform that empowers SaaS startups to scale faster by simplifying cloud infrastructure management. With an all-in-one solution for security, compliance, and deployment, DuploCloud enables teams to focus on building amazing software while we handle the heavy lifting of DevOps.
About SaaS Brass
SaaS Brass is a thriving community dedicated to connecting and supporting SaaS startup technical leaders. Through engaging events, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities, we bring together the brightest minds in SaaS to collaborate, innovate, and grow.
