AlphaLab Selects 15 Startups for First Combined Cohort

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AlphaLab, the accelerator of Innovation Works helping entrepreneurs accelerate their path to market, has selected 15 promising companies to join its first combined cohort.

The companies will receive up to $100,000 in investment, sector-specific expertise through specialized tracks, intensive training in customer acquisition and founder-led sales, hands-on fundraising preparation, and an immersive, on-site cohort experience. Last month, AlphaLab unified its distinct programs as tracks under one core curriculum that focuses on customers, capital, and community, vital pillars of starting and scaling a successful business.

“This year's cohort represents a dynamic group of founders tackling critical challenges in sectors that are increasingly attractive to investors and areas in which Pittsburgh thrives,” said Aaron Tainter, Director of Accelerator Programs at Innovation Works. “Each of these startups brings a strong vision to the table. Our goal is to help them transform their concepts into scalable, high-impact businesses.”

Three of the startups will be announced at a later date. The other 12 companies in the AlphaLab 2025 cohort are:

• Admirra: Delivers a specialized mental health practice management solution that bridges the gaps left by traditional EHR systems
• Astria Biosciences, Inc.: Pioneers a cost-effective, non-invasive blood test to diagnose and assess risks of cerebral aneurysms
• BAM!: Provides a battery-powered heating solution that allows busy individuals to enjoy perfectly heated meals any time
• DashStrom: Empowers individuals to start local children’s fitness businesses with its comprehensive platform that combines fitness and life skills education
• GripDynamix, Inc.: Patented a digital grip strength monitor that tracks lean muscle mass remotely, positioning grip strength as a vital biomarker
• Hardly: Streamlines career development services with AI-driven tools, saving time for job seekers and workforce organizations
• Korion Health: Creates affordable at-home health monitoring tools, starting with the SoundHeart Stethoscope for remote primary care
• Orbits Oncology: Uses AI-powered computer vision to analyze organoid models, providing actionable insights for biopharma cancer drug research
• Peachy Day: The first integrative migraine app designed to empower patients with health tracking, neurologist video visits, and wellness coaching
• S&K Cosmetics: Delivers high-quality microneedling pens for at-home use
• SPM: Develops electric powertrain products designed for off-road vehicles
• Wood Wide AI: Revolutionizes machine learning for numeric and tabular data

With tracks that align with the strengths of the Pittsburgh tech ecosystem, like artificial intelligence, robotics, and life sciences, founders gain a unique experience among industry leaders. AlphaLab’s cohort structure maintains a high level of personal engagement and mentorship, ensuring every founder has the resources and support they need to make meaningful progress.

Learn more about the AlphaLab 2025 cohort.

About AlphaLab

AlphaLab helps startups find customers, capital, and community. Established by Innovation Works in 2008 as its first accelerator, AlphaLab offers six-month programs that include capital investments and customized guidance from a staff of entrepreneurs. Across its industry-specific programming, AlphaLab has invested in more than 250 companies, leading to $1.3 billion in follow-on funding, over 20 exits, and two unicorns. Learn more at alphalab.org.