Innovation Works

Innovation Works (IW) is a leading early-stage investor in southwestern Pennsylvania, primarily focused on technology startups. Founded as part of the Ben Franklin Technology Partners network, IW has significantly contributed to the region's economic growth by investing in over 700 companies, which have collectively raised $3.3 billion in follow-on funding and created over 20,000 jobs. Notable sectors in IW's portfolio include robotics, life sciences, software, and clean energy. Some of their prominent investments are in companies like Aurora Innovation and Stack AV, which are part of the thriving robotics and autonomous vehicle industries in Pittsburgh. IW's support extends beyond funding, providing mentorship and resources through their accelerators, AlphaLab and AlphaLab Gear. In 2023, despite a national downturn in venture capital, Pittsburgh's tech sector saw a substantial increase in investments, reaching $3.12 billion, driven by significant activity in automation and AI. This positions Pittsburgh as an emerging tech hub with a growing number of new investors and global technology companies setting up satellite offices in the region. For startups looking to connect with IW, demonstrating innovation and potential for significant impact in high-opportunity markets will align with IW’s investment philosophy.