Category: <span>Technology</span>

Category: Technology

RT3 member Trent Cotney forms Cotney Capital Corporation to accelerate growth in the construction industry

Posted on

Tampa, FL, March 8, 2021 – The Cotney Capital Corporation, a private equity and venture capital company designed to accelerate growth in the roofing and construction industries, is pleased to announce its launch. In addition to offering investment options for growing companies, Cotney Capital also has a revolutionary incubator program designed to partner emerging companies in the construction sector with mentors that will guide them on the path to success.

“When I surveyed the private equity and venture capital markets for construction start-ups, I did not see another company that would be able to combine the resources that we have at our disposal with the decades of experience in the industry. That singularity of focus allows our investees and mentees to gain a competitive advantage. I recognize that the industry is at a tipping point where it must embrace technology to survive. My goal with Cotney Capital is to invest and mentor the future of construction,” said Trent Cotney, CEO of Cotney Capital.

Participants in Cotney Capital’s incubator program will receive hands on training on go-to-market strategies, operations and controlled growth and scaling, among other things. In addition, Cotney Capital has the legal resources needed to assist in any corporate transaction involving a participant’s business.

“I am excited to be a part of Cotney Capital,” says John Kenney, Chief Innovation Officer of Cotney Capital. “In addition to my 45+ years’ experience in the construction industry, I have helped develop many cutting-edge technology solutions for clients that have increased efficiency and accelerated growth. I look forward to being the tip of the spear and working with the bright minds of our future.”

For more information about Cotney Capital, please go to www.cotneycapital.com.

RT3 Member Harness Software Acquires CertGround App, Hires Founder

Posted on

CertGround app is used by union locals to manage training and its founder, Sean Campbell will join the Harness development team.

Harness Software announced today that it has agreed to acquire CertGround, an app used by union locals to manage training & track certifications for their membership.  Sean Campbell, the founder of CertGround will join the Harness development team.  The terms of the deal were not disclosed and the transaction is scheduled to close in the summer of 2021.

CertGround founder Sean Campbell, a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in London, ON Canada is a self-taught developer and initially created CertGround to help his local union chapter better manage training & certifications.

“When I met Sean, I was immediately impressed with the high level of skill he has as a developer.  The fact that he has worked for over 10 years as an electrician before learning to code gives him an insight into our users that is invaluable.  I’m so excited to have him join our team,” said Tom Whitaker, CEO of Harness Software.

Existing CertGround customers will not be adversely affected as Harness will continue to support them separately for the foreseeable future.  Eventually, the features of CertGround will be incorporated into the core Harness Safety App.

Harness Software currently serves thousands of daily active users and allows construction companies to easily deploy & manage a strong health & safety program.  Companies using Harness have safer job sites, fewer injuries, lower insurance costs, and are better able to recruit & retain workers.

This is the first acquisition in the company’s history.  The company isn’t done making noise and has plans to announce more major initiatives soon. “2021 is going to be a momentous year for our company,” said Whitaker.

RT3 Member Cognitive Contractor Launches Data-Driven Customer Acquisition Solution for Contractors

Posted on

The company delivers industry-specific sales & marketing technologies backed by the science of data.

FOREST HILL, TEXAS (PRWEB) FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Cognitive Contractor, a pioneer in the application of data-driven customer acquisition solutions to the contractor industry, formally launched its end-to-end sales and marketing solution to the roofing and solar sectors.

Developed by roofing, construction, and technology entrepreneur Josey Parks, this purpose-built solution helps companies prioritize their sales and marketing efforts to focus on the leads that are most likely to become customers.
“Our technology can accurately predict your next sale,” explained Parks. “Now, sales teams are equipped with the knowledge they need to ensure they are knocking on the right doors and not wasting valuable sales hours or marketing dollars on people who will never convert. We also back their sales efforts with multi-channel marketing campaigns that pre-set appointments, so sales reps just have to show up and close. And every campaign is tracked, reviewed, and refined, to continually improve results.”

Cognitive Contractor uses data analytics to build profiles of a contractor’s ideal core customer. Their AI-based technology uses this information to analyze the market and predict which leads are most likely to buy. Leads can also be filtered based on their highest potential value or lifetime value to hit specific revenue goals. When combined with the company’s highly targeted and personalized multi-channel marketing campaigns, contractors report closing rates that increase by double digits.

The company’s analytical approach to data-driven lead generation and engagement produces powerful sales numbers for contractors who use the solution, including Parks’ own companies. “Data is powerful. When you analyze your customer base, you can identify common attributes among your best performing customers. Then, you can use that customer profile to identify similar targets in your market,” Parks explained. “Cognitive Contractor is far more advanced and deliberate than traditional lead generation services, where sales teams scramble to respond first—even when a lead doesn’t fit the company’s ideal customer profile. We are leveraging technology to help contractors be more strategic and successful in their prospecting efforts.”

Steve Soule of CMR Construction & Roofing said, “Cognitive Contractor has completely changed the trajectory of my company. They have transformed our entire approach to customer acquisition to be targeted and refined. Data-based insights from Cognitive have charted our course, and their continuous guidance has brought us even further than I could have imagined.”

About Cognitive Contractor
Cognitive Contractor delivers industry-leading, data-driven customer acquisition, sales, and marketing technology to the contractor industry. By leveraging the power of big data, analytics, AI, and machine learning, they help contractors predict their next sales, convert leads to appointments, and exceed revenue goals. Born from a pressing need for better sales & marketing solutions in the CEO’s roofing and construction companies, Cognitive Contractor’s team of industry experts and data scientists have a deep understanding of the problems that contractors face and are uniquely positioned to solve them. Learn more at http://www.cognitivecontractor.com.

Mycocycle Founder and CEO Named to Forbes Next 1000 2021

Posted on

This inaugural list celebrates small business owners across the country on the road to success.

(Bolingbrook, Illinois) February 22, 2021 – Mycocycle, Inc., a leader in using mycoremediation to process toxins out of waste, announced today that its founder and CEO Joanne Rodriguez was named to the first class of 250 business owners in Forbes Next 1000 2021.

“2021 was already starting out great for Mycocycle with excellent progress on our SEED round and moving into our new offices,” said Rodriguez. “I am beyond excited about what the future holds for Mycocycle. We are entering into the next stage of our growth so gaining recognition from Forbes via their inaugural Next 1000 list emphasizes our position as innovators of the future.”

According to Forbes, the Next 1000 is “our next big franchise to spotlight and accelerate self-funded, self-driven overachievers, providing a platform for under-represented communities.” They explain that their goal is to highlight entrepreneurs who are not the typical white male profile who lead venture-backed startups but rather feature the company leaders who look like America, are pre-revenue startups and have under $10 million in revenue.

Mycocyle’s vision is to create new circular economies that transform environmentally unstable processes into financially viable material opportunities. Mushrooms will change the way we manage and use waste now and in the future.

“Thank you to Forbes and their panel of judges for this tremendous recognition,” concluded Rodriguez.

View Rodriguez’s profile here.

About Mycocycle

Mycocycle, Inc. was founded in October 2018. It is a woman-owned, early stage cleantech company using mycoremediation to process toxins out of waste. Mycocycle was recognized as a Finalist in FastCompany’s “2020 World Changing Ideas” Awards issue, a presenter for NREL’s 2020 Industry Growth Forum, a 2020 Innovation selection in the EPA’s Innovation and America Recycle’s Fair, and the winner of the Cleantech Open National 2020 Resiliency Challenge.  Mycocycle has been named a 2021 Illinois Qualified New Business Venture under the Angel Investment Tax Credit Program. This program provides Illinois-based investors a state tax credit of 25 percent of their investment up to $2 million.

For more information visit www.mycocycle.com.

RT3 Member Mycocycle Named to Startup Chicago Inaugural Class of Companies

Posted on

The company joins an elite group of promising startups that are based in the Chicago area.

(Bolingbrook, Illinois) January 20, 2021 – Mycocycle, Inc., a leader in using mycoremediation to process toxins out of waste, was named to the inaugural class of companies for Startup Chicago.  Startup Chicago is a new startup growth program recently announced by Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, and developed by ChicagoNEXT, and World Business Chicago to drive national venture capital (VC) investment for Chicago entrepreneurs.

“It is an honor to be highlighted as one of the most promising startups based in Chicago,” said Joanne Rodriguez, Mycocycle CEO. “We are excited about the opportunity to extend our reach while supporting economic development within our region.”

The initial startup database features over 100 local startup companies who are preparing for their next round of investments. The program’s goal is to connect regional and national venture capital firms and investors to explore investment opportunities in Chicago.

“As part of Startup Chicago, Mycocycle will benefit from the outreach and promotion including regional and national showcases that will allow the company to pitch directly to VC firms and investors outside of the state of Illinois,” explained Rodriguez.

Investors interested in exploring the official Startup Chicago database and learning more about exclusive virtual events can visit www.StartupChicago.net. Startup Chicago is supported by lead sponsor J.P. Morgan and William Blair, and sponsors Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and the Toronto Stock Exchange & TSX Venture Exchange.

About Mycocycle

Mycocycle, Inc. was founded in October 2018. It is a woman-owned, early stage cleantech company using mycoremediation to process toxins out of waste. Mycocycle was recognized as a Finalist in FastCompany’s “2020 World Changing Ideas” Awards issue, a presenter for NREL’s 2020 Industry Growth Forum, a 2020 Innovation selection in the EPA’s Innovation and America Recycle’s Fair, and the winner of the Cleantech Open National 2020 Resiliency Challenge.  Mycocycle has been named a 2021 Illinois Qualified New Business Venture under the Angel Investment Tax Credit Program. This program provides Illinois-based investors a state tax credit of 25 percent of their investment up to $2 million.

For more information visit www.mycocycle.com.

Roofing Technology Think Tank Announces 2020 Innovator of the Year

Posted on

The award recognizes a roofing contractor who contributes to the advancement of the roofing industry.

York, Pennsylvania, December 8, 2020 –- Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), a group of progressive roofing professionals focused on technology solutions for the roofing industry, awarded the 2020 Innovator of the Year award to Scott Riopelle, the owner and CEO of Denver, Colorado-based Interstate Roofing. The award was announced during the virtual 2020 Best of Success Conference.

“It’s clear that Scott is an early adopter and eager to integrate the latest technologies into Interstate Roofing,” stated Anna Anderson, CEO of Art Unlimited, Award Task Team Leader and RT3 Board Member. “To eliminate any chance of bias, our panel of judges did not know the names of the persons or companies that they were reviewing. They ranked nominations based solely on the technological information provided on the nomination form.”

According to the nomination, Scott was one of the first contractors to adopt using EagleView measurement reports as a standard in his business, as well as Xactimate and Scope Assist. “Technology is the new future in the roofing industry,” stated Scott. “By providing aerial and mobile access in seconds it is going to save time and be more cost effective for the jobs. I will never forget the first time I saw Xactimate. I was blown away by how far we have come in the last decade.”

Scott shared that Interstate Roofing has begun using virtual reality and augmented reality in their business. “This technology speaks to the new generation of contracting salespersons. It has increased our retention base by allowing multiple avenues of education, while providing another way to evaluate the skills of a contractor before we finalize a contractor agreement or put them in the field blindly. What this caused is a more loyal base of employee and contractor alike,” he explained.

He also is willing to share knowledge and help others in the industry, often presenting and educating other contractors, even competitors on how to implement technology into their businesses. “Due to the pandemic we have been forced to look at digital technology from a different perspective. I see the challenge and accept it as a good thing. It is not always about growing more jobs but defining the good jobs from the bad ones and keeping the crews safe,” he said.   

Interstate Roofing is a member of the Colorado Roofing Association, National Roofing Contractors Association and Scott serves on the board for the Western States Roofing Contractors Association. Interstate Roofing is rated in the highest tier with manufacturers such as Owens Corning, Versico, Boral Steel, GAF and CertainTeed.

Congratulations to Scott Riopelle and Interstate Roofing on being named the 2020 Innovator of the Year.

About Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3)
Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) strives to find innovative technology solutions to be used within the roofing industry.  RT3 provides insights from progressive thought leaders both inside and outside the roofing industry along with practical resources for implementing potential solutions successfully. The organization will encourage and enable contractors to embrace technology as they seek to grow their businesses.  With a commitment to disseminate technology advancement information, RT3 will help build the professionalism and appeal of the roofing industry. Learn more at www.rt3thinktank.com.

RT3 Member Mycocycle Launches Raise on REG CF Platform

Posted on

The company is seeking funding for its technology that uses fungi to recycle asphalt roofing materials into reusable resources.

(Bolingbrook, Illinois) December 1, 2020 – Mycocycle, Inc., a leader in using mycoremediation to process toxins out of waste and a member of the Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), today announced the launch of its StartEngine equity crowdfunding campaign. The StartEngine platform gives the public the opportunity to invest in startup companies in return for equity in the company.

“We are thrilled to be participating in the new world of equity crowdfunding,” said Joanne Rodriguez, Mycocycle founder and CEO, as well as a roofing industry veteran. “Mycocycle is committed to using the science of mushrooms to divert roofing waste from landfills. With only 15 percent of landfill space left, we must work to find a better solution. Together, we can change how we view waste: as a resource, not a burden.”

Mycocycle uses mushrooms to remove toxins from waste and convert it into reusable resources. The company is an early-stage, pre-revenue startup that has lab-based proof of concept on multiple treatment methodologies. The patent-pending process accelerates and emulates the process of breaking down materials in nature, but in an enclosed and controlled environment. The company is raising funding to support the simultaneous scale up and derisk of its technology.

“We encourage anyone interested in helping the environment to consider investing,” Rodriguez stated. “With the help of crowdfunding, we can help launch the waste management industry into the future.”

Learn more about the company’s mission, goals and growth plan by visiting www.startengine.com/mycocycle.

About Mycocycle

Mycocycle, Inc. was founded in October 2018. It is a woman-owned, early stage cleantech company using mycoremediation to process toxins out of waste. Mycocycle was recognized as a Finalist in FastCompany’s “2020 World Changing Ideas” Awards issue, a presenter for NREL’s 2020 Industry Growth Forum, a 2020 Innovation selection in the EPA’s Innovation and America Recycle’s Fair, and the winner of the Cleantech Open National 2020 Resiliency Challenge. For more information visit www.mycocycle.com. 

Roofing Technology Think Tank Extends Nomination Period for 2020 Innovator of the Year Award

Posted on

The nomination period for Innovator of the Year has been extended to August 31, 2020.

Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), a group of progressive roofing professionals focused on technology solutions for the roofing industry, announced that it has extended the nomination period for its 2020 Innovator of the Year Award.

“With many fall events being pushed back due to the coronavirus pandemic, we are able to keep the nomination period open for another month,” said Anna Anderson, RT3 board member and leader of the Awards task team. “The original deadline was set to allow time for the awards team to review applications and have the award made in time for the Best of Success Conference that is traditionally held in early fall. With that event moving to later in the year, it allowed us the opportunity to accept additional nominations.”

This award nationally recognizes a roofing contractor that has contributed to the advancement of the roofing industry through technical innovation and/or product development in one of the following areas:

  • Production/Technology Efficiency
  • Safety Innovation
  • Client Service/Quality of Delivery 
  • Employee Recruitment/Training/Retention
  • Environmental Impact

Nominators should be prepared to share in 700 words or less why their nominee deserves the recognition of 2020 Innovator of the Year. Award judging criteria will be based on innovation, results, design and strategy.

For more information and to submit an award application visit www.rt3thinktank.com/innovator-award. There is a $50 nomination fee to cover processing and award costs. The nomination period now closes August 31, 2020.

About Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3)
Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) strives to find innovative technology solutions to be used within the roofing industry.  RT3 provides insights from progressive thought leaders both inside and outside the roofing industry along with practical resources for implementing potential solutions successfully. The organization will encourage and enable contractors to embrace technology as they seek to grow their businesses.  With a commitment to disseminate technology advancement information, RT3 will help build the professionalism and appeal of the roofing industry. www.rt3thinktank.com.

RT3 Members XAP 360 and Owens Corning Introduce Touchless Roofing Inspection Platform to U.S. Contractors

Posted on

XAP 360 powered by Kespry’s drone-based aerial intelligence technology provides roofing professionals with granular accuracy and efficiency, enhancing homeowner transparency and satisfaction

XAP 360, a leader in touchless property assessment solutions is collaborating with fellow RT3 member, Owens Corning, a global leader in insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composite materials. The collaboration offers Owens Corning Roofing Contractor (OCCN)  members advanced inspections and reporting tool, OC ProScan. The new business service is designed to deliver transparent and accurate roof inspection experience for homeowners, helping claim payouts occur rapidly while also educating and protecting the contractor’s customer base.

XAP 360 and Owens Corning are working together to provide roofing contractors with a drone-based roofing inspections platform that offers a fully autonomous, touchless technology providing objective third party professional reporting.

“Owens Corning is proud to team up with innovative business services like XAP 360 whose innovative platform will enable Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network members to differentiate themselves in this virtual selling environment and take their business to the next level,” said Jon Gardner, Contractor Training Leader, Owens Corning.

“With XAP 360 powered by Kespry, roofing professionals and property owners can finally sit at the same table physically or virtually, and communicate honestly and openly,” said Phil Pratt, partner, XAP 360. “We can now bridge the existing uncertainty gap with transparency as XAP 360 is guided by sophisticated technological innovations in aerial intelligence from Kespry. We’ve pushed the roofing industry out of the shadows and into the information age, giving our contractors tools to allow them to seamlessly work in today’s  new business environment.”

About Owens Corning

Owens Corning is a global building and industrial materials leader. The company’s three integrated businesses are dedicated to the manufacture and advancement of a broad range of insulation, roofing and fiberglass composite materials. Leveraging the talents of 19,000 employees in 33 countries, Owens Corning provides innovative products and sustainable solutions that address energy efficiency, product safety, renewable energy, durable infrastructure, and labor productivity. These solutions provide a material difference to the company’s customers and make the world a better place. Based in Toledo, Ohio, USA, the company posted 2019 sales of $7.2 billion. Founded in 1938, it has been a Fortune 500® company for 66 consecutive years. For more information, please visit www.owenscorning.com.

About XAP

XAP 360 is headquartered out of southwest Ohio and brings cutting edge technology to the roofing industry.  XAP 360 was founded by industry professionals dedicated to furthering the trade and building sustainable business solutions by pairing the most advanced aerial inspection software with sound sales and marketing strategies.  XAP 360 is also helping roofing professionals all across North America operate faster, safer and more profitable.

To learn more, visit: www.xap360.com/ocp or email sales@xap360.com