The Sacramento Kings have launched their annual Kings Capitalize contest, a March Madness-style tournament for local startups. From over 100 applicants, the Kings have narrowed it down  from the intial “sweet sixteen” to the eight companies, who will compete in a pitch off on March 1 for one of the final four spots. Those who make it to the Final Four will compete for a $10,000 top prize.

The Elite Eight

The eight companies in the running this year are:

  • 3D Organic Polymer Silk, a Davis-based company that uses spider silk as glue for medical purposes

  • Adload Technologies Inc., a Sacramento-based company that sells digital screen advertising on big rigs

  • AppOrchid, a San Ramon and Folsom-based company that uses AI and machine learning to build apps for enterprise energy and utility customers

  • Bekonix Inc., a Sacramento-based company that developed a no-code platform for building IoT systems

  • Ferreter Inc., a Santa Monica-based developer of an app for conducting business due diligence

  • HuLoop Automation Inc., an Auburn-based company that uses AI to help clients automate business processes and software tests

  • Ravata Solutions, a Davis-based company with technology to improve in vitro fertilization success

  • Shared Vision, a Rocklin-based company that offers online affiliate link marketing management

Coaching and Pitch Day

The eight companies will receive additional coaching leading up to a pitch day on March 1. The four finalists will then create pitch videos, which will be judged by a panel of experts and fans’ votes at the Kings’ home game against the Phoenix Suns on March 24.

Previous Winner and New Additions

Last year’s winner was EyeRate, an online review startup based in Elk Grove that has since grown to over 40 employees. This year, the Kings are adding two new contests: “Capitalize: Food” and “Capitalize: Innovation”, which will launch later in the year with strategic goals set by the Kings.

Presentation and Partnership

The contest is presented by the Kings and their partner Dialpad Inc., a communications technology company based in San Ramon. The winner will receive three years of access to Dialpad technology in addition to the $10,000 cash prize.

A Longstanding Tradition

Now in its eighth year, the Kings Capitalize contest was launched by Chairman and CEO Vivek Ranadivé, a technology industry veteran. The contest has become a staple for local startups in the Sacramento area, providing opportunities for growth and recognition.

The excitement for this year’s contest has already begun, with the final eight companies eagerly awaiting their chance to pitch and potentially take home the top prize. The Kings Capitalize contest continues to drive innovation and support the local startup community.