JPMorgan-backed Techstars Atlanta and New Orleans have announced additional investments in three Jamaican tech startups from the Kingston BETA community, bringing the total number of Jamaican startups funded through Techstars to six, with total investment of Jamaican Dinar $111.6 million in the past 12 months.
Three Jamaican startups join prestigious Techstars Atlanta Accelerator
Melissa Powell (POCMI), Monique Powell (QuickCart), and Raquel Seville (Dataffluent) have been selected for the highly competitive Techstars Atlanta Accelerator Program. Each startup will receive $120,000 in investment and convertible debt, as well as access to Techstars’ renowned global network of mentors, investors, and resources to support their growth and scalability.
These three women-led startups will join a dynamic peer group and gain valuable tools and connections to take their businesses to the next level.
Last August, three other Kingston BETA startups, Khary Sharpe (main office), Dylan Brennan (Cypher), Jermaine Morgan & Rory Richards (Grocery List) has been accepted into the Techstars New Orleans Accelerator Program, representing the fintech, music tech and e-commerce sectors.
Ingrid RileyFounder of Kingston BetaHe expressed his excitement:
“We are incredibly proud of the groundbreaking work of Melissa Powell, Monique Powell and Raquel Seville. Their selection into the Techstars Atlanta Accelerator highlights the incredible talent in the Kingston Beta community and underscores the global recognition that Caribbean tech innovators are gaining.”“
TechStars is the world’s largest pre-seed investor and second in reputation to Y Combinator.
About Kingston BETA
Kingston BETA is a peer-to-peer, community-driven network that educates, inspires and connects entrepreneurs with the talent, programs and resources they need to build technology-driven businesses through its event series and global network. Over the years, Kingston BETA has become a hub for Jamaica’s tech startup ecosystem, fostering connections that drive innovation and investment.
Techstars: Promoting diversity and innovation
Founders in the Techstars Accelerator program participate in a hybrid 13-week experience that begins with a retreat in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by virtual programming. The program provides entrepreneurs with access to an unparalleled global network, mentorship and resources, aligning with Techstars and JP Morgan’s commitment to supporting underrepresented founders. Beyond the accelerator, JP Morgan provides banking, asset management and other services to help these startups succeed, recognizing that diversity and inclusion are key drivers of innovation and economic growth.
Collaboration at its core
This incredible achievement is the result of a powerful collaboration between a tenacious entrepreneur and two influential connectors.Ingrid RileyFounder of Kingston BETA, Melissa Pegasus, Managing Director of Techstars Atlanta and New Orleans, and a well-known pre-seed investor, the Silicon Valley entrepreneurs have fostered relationships Martin BabinekThe founder of Entrepreneurs Across Borders highlights the power of strategic partnerships in opening global doors for Caribbean entrepreneurs.
Later this year, Techstars founders will showcase their work and innovations at a DEMO Day in New York, where they will share their progress with investors and stakeholders from around the world.
Meet the Entrepreneurs:
- Monique Powell, Founder of QuickCart: QuickCart is an e-commerce and logistics company that helps retailers increase sales while offering consumers the convenience of delivery from local restaurants and stores.
- Melissa Powell, Founder of POCMI Inc.: POCMI is a SaaS marketplace that is revolutionizing global workforce mobility by streamlining the selection, relocation, and cultural integration of foreign experts for global companies.
- Raquel Seville, Founder, Dataffluent: Dataffluent provides financial analysts, investors, and decision makers with advanced automation, intelligence, and visualization tools, allowing them to focus on strategic decisions.
Upcoming Events: Kingston Beta
The next Kingston BETA event is October 3, 2024It will be held at the AC Hotel in Kingston. The theme is “Done Deals: How the Power of Community and Networks Generate Startup Investment.”During the event, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with Techstars ATL and NOLA entrepreneurs and hear first-hand how community-driven networking can lead to startup funding success.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to interact, learn, and be inspired by some of the brightest minds in technology!
About Kingston BETA
Kingston BETA is the Caribbean’s leading tech event series, serving as a hub for entrepreneurs, innovators and investors in Jamaica and the region. Since its inception, Kingston BETA has connected the local tech ecosystem with global opportunities, driving growth and innovation for Jamaican startups.
